WASHINGTON, D.C. — CANAC Inc, North America’s leading supplier of solutions to the rail industry announced on January 14 the development of two major web-based training initiatives, offering rail-related training to a broad base of users.
The first program was developed with and for the American Shortline and Regional Railroad Association. Three on-line courses developed by CANAC and now available from the association’s website deal with handling hazardous materials, safe yard/industrial switching and personal safety around rail property and equipment. Approximately two hours in length, each includes tutorials and examinations, all conducted on-line.
In commenting on the program, Frank Turner, President, of the Association said, “Every railroad employee regardless of the size of the railroad is entitled to quality safety training. We now have the opportunity to provide quality safety training to both the smallest as well as the largest railroads in our segment of the industry. I am very proud that the first nationwide web based railroad safety training is being provided by the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association. Thank you CANAC for helping us achieve this very important goal.”
The second program being developed by CANAC for the National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association and the RTOA Railroad Training Fund consists of two courses plus a weekly safety-briefing message all accessed through the association’s website. The first course, to be launched in mid- January, will focus on roadway worker protection; the second, on track standards, will be available at a later date. The 52-week safety tool kit, being developed by CANAC with the help of the Willis Corporation, will include safety tips and bulletins available to students as they log on.
Important partners in this second program are the Laborers’ International Union of North America and the International Union of Operating Engineers and their signatory contractors. As well, the Railroad Cooperation and Education Trust (RAILCET) has offered major assistance to this initiative.
Scott Brace, NRC Chairman, commented “This will be a great tool for our members. We are challenged to properly train and educate our workforce on projects located all over the United States. Having a program such as this will allow our field people easy access to the training and education that our workforce requires and deserves, at a cost that will not break the bank.”
Rick Porter, Director, RAILCET added “No vehicle which can be utilized to accomplish training should be ignored. Today, because of the existence of the Internet, training can be accomplished more economically yet with greater impact through interactive instructional techniques which allow each employee to receive training at their own pace.”
Frank Trotter, President and CEO of CANAC, in a prepared statement said, “These initial courses offer meaningful rail-related training which is accessible to eligible students at any time and place. These programs allow convenient and cost-effective, student-centered training. Their quality and targeted focus will result in greater safety for all concerned. We are very happy to welcome these major rail industry organizations to CANAC’s on-line training family.”
Founded in 1971, CANAC provides knowledge-based products and services to freight and passenger railroads, industries operating their own railroads, investors and governments throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico.