FEDERAL PANEL CRITICIZES CN’S “CULTURE OF FEAR”

As reported by the Canadian Press

Ottawa – A panel reviewing Canada’s railway safety is especially critical of Canadian National Railway for its “culture of fear and discipline” in the railway’s safety management plan.

The review, which was launched in December 2006, following several serious rail accidents said “CN Rail’s strict adherence to a rules-based approach focused on disciplinary actions when mistakes were made.

CN has instilled a “culture of fear and discipline” and is counter to an effective safety management system” the report said. “CN needs to acknowledge this openly and take concrete steps to improve.”