Class I railroads have been updating customers on their response to the COVID-19 outbreak, with four offering information through their company websites. Here’s the most recent information:
— Norfolk Southern, in a March 14 note from Alan Shaw, executive vice president and chief marketing officer, said it is allowing remote work for employees whose jobs allow it; restricted access to critical functions in locations such as it Network Operations Center, and activated its Operations Command Center. The railroad also informed customers on Monday that it is delaying a new demurrage structure that was to take effect April 1. Customers will receive 30 days’ notice before the new rates take effect.
— CSX Transportation says it has “robust business continuity plans to minimize any potential operational impact” from the pandemic, including “backup facilities where business-critical functions are able to quickly transition and continue seamless train operations.” It is modifying work areas to create social distancing and allowing remote work by employees whose jobs permit it.”
— BNSF Railway says it has “well-established plans” to ensure rail service is maintained through any workforce disruption, including designating essential personnel and ensuring crews are available to keep trains moving. The railroad says all facilities remain open with additional safety protocols in place.
— Canadian National says it is “taking all necessary steps to protect our personnel while we continue to run a solid operation to keep the economy moving by serving our customers.” It declined further comment “for safety reasons.”
— Union Pacific, in a March 6 announcement, said it created a pandemic planning team in 2006 and has “a core team of health and safety professionals on hand to respond to infectious disease outbreaks.” Its pandemic operating plan includes establishing a command center staffed by personnel essential to continue operations. The railroad had limited nonessential travel.
— Updated at 12:20 p.m. on March 16 with information on NS demurrage change; updated at 12:15 p.m. on March 17 with CSX information.
