Proposal to enhance fatigue management in the rail sector

OTTAWA, Nov. 7, 2017 /CNW/ - Canadians deserve the safest transportation system possible. They should be confident that people working in the rail sector are ready for duty and well-rested.

Today, the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, announced a first step towards addressing fatigue management in the rail industry. Fatigue is common in the 24/7 railway transportation industry, where employees are subject to shiftwork, disruptive schedules and long hours.

A Notice of Intent is published in the Canada Gazette, Part I to outline a proposed approach to incorporate up-to-date fatigue science in current requirements and further strengthen Canada's safety regime.

Canadians, railway workers and anyone with a vested interest in rail safety are encouraged to provide comments following the publication of the Notice of Intent.

This initiative follows Transport Canada's continued work to address rail fatigue and the Minister's commitment following the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities in their June 2016 report: An Update on Rail Safety.

Quote

"As Minister of Transport, rail safety is my top priority. My department is continuously working with stakeholders to make our railway system safer for all Canadians. That is why we propose to move forward with changes based on the latest scientific evidence in order to best protect railway operators, travellers and those living close to rail tracks.''

The Honourable Marc Garneau,
Minister of Transport 

Quick Facts

• The Transportation Safety Board of Canada added fatigue management systems for train crews as a key issue on their 2016 Watchlist. 
  
  
• The rail safety regulatory framework includes regulations, rules, standards, guidelines and policies. 

Related links

Notice of Intent

Railway Safety Act

Transportation 2030

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SOURCE Transport Canada

Delphine Denis, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, Ottawa, 613-991-0700, [email protected]; Media Relations, Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055, [email protected]