Fault Lines investigates whether the railroad industry has prioritised profits over safety after a train derailment in Ohio

"Derailed", 2023
On the evening of February 3, a freight train carrying toxic chemicals derailed in the town of East Palestine, Ohio, United States. The railroad company set off a controlled explosion of chemicals, raising questions about the effects on health and the environment. Thousands of local aquatic animals died, and residents worry about developing long-term health issues. East Palestine’s train derailment has raised questions about safety culture in the US railroad industry, with federal investigators stating that the toxic chemical spill and train derailment could have been prevented. During our investigation Fault Lines spoke with workers at the main railroads, who described how their jobs have been affected by a corporate strategy that has prioritised profits over safety.

We’re at war with corporate greed, with the politicians that have this money lined in their pockets. We’re here for one issue and thats to make sure our town is safe and make sure it doesn't happen in our town or any other town. We need to place demands on the railroad and we need accountability.

Jami Cozza, River Valley Organizing