Freight rail is a crucial component of the Texas economy, contributing billions of dollars annually. However, recent safety concerns have brought increased scrutiny to the industry’s practices, particularly focusing on the safety measures implemented by companies like Fort Worth-based BNSF Railway.
A recent report from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) delves into the efficacy of BNSF Railway’s efforts to foster a culture of safety within its operations. Bill Keppen, a seasoned veteran in the railway industry and a contributor at Railway Age, has been instrumental in providing safety analyses to the FRA. With his experience as a former engineer at BNSF, Keppen offers valuable insights into the challenges facing the company and the steps that can be taken to ensure alignment across all levels of the organization.
### Challenges in Communication and Safety Culture
In a discussion with Texas Standard, Keppen highlights the significant challenges that can impede effective communication of safety messages within a large company like BNSF Railway. One key factor he identifies is the sheer size of the operation, which can lead to difficulties in ensuring consistent messaging and practices across all locations. Additionally, Keppen notes that staffing reductions over the years, resulting from mergers and other factors, have strained both the train operating crews and management ranks, potentially compromising the promotion of a robust safety culture.
Moreover, Keppen raises concerns about the experience levels of some managers within the organization, emphasizing the importance of having knowledgeable leaders who prioritize safety over other operational metrics, such as on-time performance. He underscores the need for senior management to set clear expectations regarding safety practices and risk assessment to foster a culture that prioritizes the well-being of employees and the communities through which BNSF trains operate.
### Safety Performance and Comparison
When assessing the safety performance of BNSF Railway, Keppen draws a comparison between BNSF and Union Pacific (UP), two major players in the railway industry with similar operational footprints. Keppen’s analysis reveals that while both companies experience a significant number of human factor-caused accidents, Union Pacific has reported a higher number of such incidents compared to BNSF. Additionally, when considering total accidents including track and mechanical issues, BNSF emerges with a more favorable safety record than Union Pacific.
Keppen’s comparison underscores the impact of organizational culture on safety outcomes, highlighting the need for continuous improvement and vigilance in ensuring safe operations. While culture plays a crucial role in shaping safety practices, Keppen emphasizes that multiple factors contribute to overall safety performance, necessitating a holistic approach to risk management and operational excellence.
### Strategies for Enhancing Safety
In addressing the imperative to improve safety practices within BNSF Railway and the broader railway industry, Keppen offers practical recommendations aimed at aligning all stakeholders towards a common goal of enhanced safety. One key suggestion revolves around revisiting the compensation and incentive structures for management personnel, linking performance metrics related to safety outcomes to bonuses and rewards. By incentivizing safety-conscious behavior and decision-making, organizations can cultivate a culture that prioritizes safety as a core value.
Furthermore, Keppen underscores the importance of ongoing training and development for employees at all levels, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and skills enhancement to mitigate risks and promote safe practices. By investing in the professional growth of its workforce, BNSF can empower its employees with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate complex operational challenges while upholding the highest safety standards.
### Balancing Economic Realities and Safety Imperatives
While striving to enhance safety practices, railway companies like BNSF must navigate the delicate balance between economic competitiveness and safety imperatives. Keppen acknowledges the financial pressures faced by the industry, particularly in light of narrow profit margins and intense competition from alternative transportation modes like trucking. However, he underscores that safety must remain a non-negotiable priority, as it not only safeguards employees but also protects the communities served by railway operations.
By integrating safety considerations into strategic decision-making processes and resource allocation, BNSF can achieve a harmonious equilibrium between operational efficiency and safety excellence. Keppen’s insights underscore the critical need for proactive risk management and continuous improvement initiatives to sustain a culture of safety that permeates every aspect of the organization.
In conclusion, the examination of BNSF Railway’s safety practices offers valuable lessons for the broader railway industry, shedding light on the complexities of ensuring operational safety in a dynamic and multifaceted environment. By heeding the insights shared by industry experts like Bill Keppen and embracing a proactive approach to safety management, companies can forge a path towards sustainable excellence and resilience in the face of evolving challenges and opportunities.
