As truth about train spill leaks out, rail workers look to fight for safety – The Militant

....In a statement, Candace Wagner, the 2022 Socialist Workers Party candidate for governor of Pennsylvania, a freight rail conductor and Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen member based in Pittsburgh, 40 miles from East Palestine, said:

 

“We’re beginning to see the consequences of this most recent train derailment in northern Ohio. Only united union action, not appeals to the government, will stop the rail companies from running mileslong trains, scrimping on inspections and maintenance, forcing erratic schedules on many rail workers that bring fatigue, damage health and decrease time at home. We can win public support for our demands.

“Our unions must fight for shorter trains and larger crews, for maintenance and inspection workforces up to the necessary size to adequately inspect the trains and engines, track and associated equipment. Rail transport of dangerous, but vital substances, can be done safely, but only if the voracious profit drive of the bosses, facilitated by the bosses’ government and their two political parties, is confronted.

“What is necessary is to organize and fight for workers control to ensure the safety and health of rail workers and the communities along the tracks,” Wagner said. “Without this the rail bosses will continue to gamble with our lives and well-being. For them it’s just a financial calculation. For the working class and small farmers, it is our lives and future.”

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As truth about train spill leaks out, rail workers look to fight for safety – The Militant