In-Depth Focus: Winter Operations

Battling winter weather and managing passenger expectations

The UK rail industry has been preparing for winter all year – aided by guidance designed to help track and train work together to stay on top of roles and responsibilities, says Mark Oakley, Professional Head of Rolling Stock at the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB).

Interview Spotlight

Dana Logue, Railroad Product Manager from ThermOmegaTech, discusses how their products and solutions can help rolling stock operators overcome a variety of challenges that they face, especially during harsh winter weather.

Tackling the unpredictability of winter weather

In Finland, winter is the longest season and can last several months. The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency (FTIA) is responsible for maintaining and developing the country’s railway network, whatever the weather, and in an interview with Global Railway Review, FTIA’s Railway Director, Markku Nummelin, explains the new solutions currently being tested and how they plan to deal with winter weather in the future.

Keeping trains moving in extreme cold conditions

In recent years, two polar vortex systems have battered the United States’ Midwest region, with temperatures falling to -30˚C in Chicago and -37˚C in North Dakota – colder than parts of Antarctica. But, despite these severe weather environments, Norfolk Southern Railway Company managed to keep trains moving thanks to detailed preparation plans, efficient response activities, and the hard work and team spirit of its employees.