Risk Management

GEAPS Exchange 2025: Behind Closed Gates- The Reality of RailRoad Safety

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Speakers: Andrew Johnstone, Russell York

Session Description

The reality is that behind industry gates across this country, plant employees are being tasked to engage in one of the most hazardous professions in history without training in the processes and procedures that ensure their safety and the safety of others.

The reality is that the onus is on us to provide the education and safe work environment needed to get all rail workers home in one piece at the end of the day.

Meet The Speakers

Andrew Johnstone

Training Specialist

Rail Safe Training

Andrew Johnstone is a rail industry and safety specialist with Rail Safe Training experienced in delivering specialized training in areas such as industrial operations, motive power, HazMat tank car loading and unloading, mentorship and compliance training, risk assessments, and track inspections. His hands-on approach and knowledge of FRA rules and regulations have been instrumental in shaping Rail Safe’s comprehensive training programs.

Russell York

Director of Program Development

Rail Safe Training

Russell York, the director of program development Rail Safe, Inc., has 47 years’ experience in the railroad industry, of which 39 have been in management, in various leadership positions. York has worked as superintendent of transportation, Denver TSC., with the Southern Pacific and has worked as director of transportation for Harriman Dispatching Center in Omaha, Nebraska
York is skilled in train operations management, continuous improvement and team building. As a director, he developed and led a successful safety program for a five-state region. He has also taught undergraduate classes as an adjunct professor at Bellevue University.