WASHINGTON — Fiery wrecks of trains hauling crude oil have intensified pressure on the Obama administration to approve tougher standards for railroads and tank cars despite industry complaints that it could cost billions and slow freight deliveries.
On Feb. 5, the Transportation Department sent the White House draft rules that would require oil trains to use stronger tank cars and make other safety improvements.
Nine days later, a 100-car train hauling crude oil and petroleum distillates derailed and caught fire in Ontario, Canada. Less than 48 hours later, a 109-car oil train derailed and caught fire in West Virginia.
The government hasn’t yet unveiled its proposed regulations. But among them are a stronger tank-car design that includes thicker tank walls and electronically controlled brakes that stop rail cars at the same time, said Brigham McCown, a consultant who was head of the federal agency responsible for safe transportation of hazardous materials during President George W. Bush’s administration.
