(The following article was posted on TheOmahaChannel.com on November 18.)
OMAHA, Neb. — The safety of the nation’s rails will be under scrutiny at a conference in Omaha Friday.
Omaha’s Gabriel Technologies is gathering companies interested in rail shipping to discuss security issues regarding the railroad, agricultural and bulk tank industries.
Security on the nation’s railway system, like that of the airline industry, was tightened after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Private rail transport companies, the Transportation Department and the Transportation Security Administration, now part of the Homeland Security Department, have taken several measures to protect trains carrying dangerous materials.
Gabriel Technologies created the “WAR-LOK” transportation security product line. The product is a deterrent to cargo theft.
The company said part of its object Friday is learn more about what clients and the rail industry want in improved security products.
“We created the round table in response to the growing need for the development of a product that will provide effective deterrence to pilferage and from the possible introduction of harmful contraband,” said John Detlefsen, executive vice president of Gabriel Technologies.
ConAgra Foods and Union Pacific will both have representatives at the forum.