AFPM statement on DOT decision to rescind the ECP braking requirement

WASHINGTON, D.C. – AFPM President and CEO Chet Thompson reacts to the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) decision to rescind requirements to equip and operate trains transporting large volumes of flammable liquids with Electronically Controlled Pneumatic (ECP) brakes:

“AFPM supports DOT’s rational decision not to require ECP brakes on trains moving large volumes of flammable liquids. While we support the use of improved safety technologies, ECP isn’t an improvement on other technologies currently in use, and would have imposed substantial costs to shippers.

“We now encourage DOT to pursue a comprehensive approach to rail safety that includes both preventive measures, such as derailment prevention and improvements in track integrity, and mitigation techniques.

About AFPM

The American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) is a national trade association representing more than 400 companies that encompass virtually all U.S. refining and petrochemical manufacturing capacity.