ex-BN Wrote:
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> Pdxrailtransit Wrote:
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> -----
> >
> [trainwatchersjournal.blogspot.com]
>
> > nsf-adds-oil-train-buffer-cars-for-mrl.html
>
>
> When you say in your blog: "Wonder if this was
> BNSF's idea, or if the FRA made them do this." my
> answer is that it is the law. MRL is following
> the law on hazardous material placement
> restrictions. The hopper cars are loads destined
> for Pasco and points west. They are removed from
> the train in Missoula since having the two buffers
> in the train without helpers is also a violation.
> The FRA allows the cars to travel in the middle of
> the train without helpers as it is deemed safer to
> switch them out in a designated yard than when the
> helpers are removed. And practically having the
> two in the middle, although not in compliance,
> does not make the train less safe that having them
> out of the train. Technically they should be
> switched one to the head end and one to the rear
> but in Missoula they are simply added to the next
> Pasco train along with other fill cars.
>
> My source is comments made to me recently by an
> FRA hazmat agent. Also look for radically
> different hazmat placement rules proposed for the
> future.

Interesting, thanks, but the buffer cars are stenciled "buffer service only."