Resources provide guidance for operating and developing near railways
The Railway Association of Canada (RAC), in partnership with other organizations, has developed several resources related to rail safety. Municipalities are encouraged to review and consider implementing both Operation Lifesaver (which addresses collisions and trespassing on railways) and the Proximity Guidelines (which addresses development near railways).
Operation Lifesaver
Operation Lifesaver, founded over 40 years ago, is a dedicated program used to prevent collisions at railway crossings and railway trespassing incidents in Canada. Funded by RAC and Transport Canada, Operation Lifesaver works with rail industry, government, law enforcement, labour groups, media, and other organizations and communities from coast to coast to increase awareness about rail safety. Operation Lifesaver also offers educational tools to all Canadians through rail safety presentations to schools, youth clubs, driver associations, snowmobile and ATV clubs, and other community groups.
Proximity Guidelines
The Proximity Guidelines were developed through a joint initiative of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and RAC. These guidelines were developed by gathering information regarding safety, noise, and vibrations associated with developments occurring near railway corridors. Rail proximity issues were heightened after the 2013 Lac-Mégantic tragedy. It is RAC’s goal to work with municipalities, government officials, and industry partners to promote these recommendations to ensure consistent development practices from coast to coast. RAC is focused on regularly updating the guidelines and encouraging communities to adopt the guidelines to ensure that development in proximity to rail lines occurs safely and consistently across Canada.
Warren Noga
Policy Advisor
780.955.4079
warren@RMAlberta.com
Tasha Blumenthal
Director of External Relations & Advocacy
780.955.4094
tasha@RMAlberta.com