The administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration last week sent a letter to Union Pacific blasting the rail line for failing to address safety concerns.
In a letter sent by the Associated Press to Union Pacific leaders, Federal Railway Administration Administrator Amit Bose claimed that the defect ratio for freight cars was 19.93%, and for locomotives was 72.69%, which is double the national average.
“I am writing this letter to express grave concern about the specific and significant risk to rail safety at Union Pacific Railroad,” Bosse wrote.
“Throughout the focused inspection it was clear that UP did not take steps to improve the condition of its rolling stock as the defect ratio did not improve over time,” Bose said.
Bose also claimed that the company furloughed 138 employees, including 94 Automotive Craft employees, worsening the poor condition of the rolling stock. The company said these furloughs represent 4% of its craft workforce, and are routine due to fluctuations in rail volumes.
A Union Pacific spokesperson said the company expected to learn more from federal officials about the nature of the recent inspections.
The company said, “Union Pacific will never compromise the safety of its employees. Safety is always our first priority, and we are reviewing and addressing the concerns raised by FRA.” “There is no connection between the recent holidays and Union Pacific’s ability to address mechanical repairs. We have appropriate staffing for all craft, and we always allow for the natural ups and downs of our business. Leave a buffer. Ultimately, we have worked with FRA inspectors for years and respect their work. We have the same goal – safety.”
According to FRA reporting data, Union Pacific has been involved in 250 accidents from January to June 2023. Accident data is on par with previous years. Data shows that 68 accidents this year were caused by human factors.
Union Pacific said it plans to issue a formal response to FRA’s letter soon.