The safety of Canadians remains Transport Canada’s top priority. Despite ongoing outreach activities and the advent of new technologies, avoidable collisions continue to occur at federally regulated grade crossings. This is why, in January 2012, Transport Canada launched a comprehensive public consultation process to help improve how railway companies and road authorities manage the safety of grade crossings.
As a direct result, the proposed Grade Crossings Regulations introduce several requirements that would improve safety standards, clarify roles and responsibilities, and facilitate information sharing.
The key aspects of the proposed regulations include:
Railway companies and road authorities would be required to meet improved and enforceable safety standards when building or altering grade crossings and for existing grade crossings, such as the introduction of signs and warning systems.
Grade crossing safety is a shared responsibility between railway companies, road authorities, and private authorities. The proposed regulations clearly define who is responsible for the design, construction, maintenance and inspection of the crossing surface, signage, and warning systems.
The proposed regulations specify what critical safety information must be shared between railway companies and road authorities. The improved exchange of information would promote a collaborative relationship between the two responsible authorities.
Safety features play a critical role at grade crossings. Under the proposed regulations, sightlines would be required to be clear of any obstructions—such as buildings, structures, trees or brush. Further, railway companies would not be permitted to leave railway equipment unattended if it impedes visibility at grade crossings.
Other safety features include design plans for warning systems and standards for maintaining, inspecting and testing traffic control devices. Railway companies would be required to keep records of these activities and of any system malfunctions or failures for a minimum of two years.
Temporary protection measures would be required when activities undertaken at a railway line or road crossing pose a risk to the safety of railway operations. Requirements regarding the cessation of train whistling in certain areas would also come into force.
February 2014
