Following the fatal derailment on February 5th, 2019 that killed three Canadian Pacific employees near Field, British Columbia, Transport Canada has ordered new safety measures in an effort to prevent a similar tragedy in the future.
All trains are now required to use handbrakes during an emergency stop if the grade is over 1.8%. Transport Minister, Marc Garneau, said “As a precaution until such time that the exact cause of the accident is determined, my department [is] … mandating the use of handbrakes. This order takes effect immediately and will remain in effect as long as necessary. As I have said many times before, rail safety is my top priority and I will never hesitate to take appropriate actions when necessary.”
Transport Canada orders use of handbrakes for trains on steep slopes
