In keeping with a strong tradition of safety, Norfolk Southern recently rolled out a new educational train and website to help first responders across its network respond to potential rail-related incidents.

The train and website are part of Norfolk Southern’s Operation Awareness & Response (OAR) program. OAR was launched in 2015 to cultivate and strengthen relationships with local first responders by providing classroom, web-based, and field training on hazardous materials transportation, as well as information about rail operations.

Intermodal freight – consumer goods that move in containers and trailers by more than one mode of transportation – has been one of Norfolk Southern’s fastest-growing market segments. That reflects a trend of shippers choosing rail over the highway as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to move products to market.

Norfolk, Va., April 6, 2016 /3BL Media/ -- Norfolk Southern has awarded 60 chemical customers its Thoroughbred Chemical Safety Award for 2015. The companies safely transported on Norfolk Southern’s rail lines 224,660 carloads of chemical product that the federal government regulates as hazardous.

Norfolk Southern’s health and wellness program, WellNS, encourages employees to get regular medical screenings, become active, quit tobacco use, and make nutritious food choices.

WellNS benefits communities as well. PowerTrain, a popular WellNS “Get Active” program, offers employees a way to participate in healthy activities while benefitting health-related organizations and other community nonprofits. When 10 or more NS employees complete a PowerTrain event in support of qualifying groups and nonprofits, the company donates $1,000 on the team’s behalf to the organization.