NTSB Report: Norfolk Southern Derailment in Illinois – Rail Safety

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Introduction

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report on a July 18 Norfolk Southern Railway derailment, collision, and hazardous materials release near Browns, Illinois.

Incident Overview

The incident involved an eastbound Norfolk Southern (NS) mixed freight train that derailed 24 rail cars after passing over a spring switch. The derailment occurred near Browns, Illinois, in the NS Midwest Division, Southern West District. The derailed cars collided with a stationary westbound mixed-freight train.

Sequence of Events

The eastbound train was the first to traverse the spring switch following maintenance. The maintenance had been completed approximately 40 minutes prior to the incident, according to NTSB officials.

Hazardous Materials Release

The derailed cars included tank cars containing hazardous materials. Two tank cars carrying molten sulfur were breached, leading to a product release. Additionally, one tank car containing denatured fuel ethanol released approximately 15 gallons of product.

Conclusion

The NTSB’s preliminary report details a derailment, collision, and hazardous materials release involving a Norfolk Southern Railway train near Browns, Illinois. The report outlines the sequence of events, including the derailment of 24 rail cars and the release of hazardous materials.

Company Summary

Norfolk Southern Railway: Operates a rail network and was involved in a derailment and collision near Browns, Illinois. The incident involved a mixed freight train.

Technology

Spring Switch: A type of railway switch designed to allow trains to pass through in one direction without manual intervention.

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