Norfolk Southern and unions team up to focus on safety improvements

Norfolk Southern and unions team up to focus on safety improvements

By Bill Stephens | May 23, 2023

In joint letter, leaders of all 12 unions agree to work with railroad management

Norfolk Southern maintenance crews work on the retarder system at the hump at Brosnan Yard in Macon, Ga. Norfolk Southern

ATLANTA – Norfolk Southern and the 12 unions that represent the railroad’s employees have agreed to work more closely together to improve safety.

“Today, national labor leaders and Norfolk Southern management are committing to work together to enhance rail safety for our people and the communities we serve,” they announced in a letter to employees on Tuesday afternoon. “We won’t agree on everything. That’s OK. Our belief in the importance of safety unites us. We want our people to show up to work every day knowing their employer and their union are working diligently to help them do their jobs safely.”

The letter was signed by NS CEO Alan Shaw and the leaders of all 12 unions.

Under the agreement, the railroad and unions will collaborate, consult experts, review best practices, and listen to the feedback of employees who are doing the work.

“Working together – and broadening the conversation to ensure everyone plays a part – is the best way to achieve meaningful improvement,” the railroad and unions said.

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