Union Pacific Railroad's Pacific Northwest (PNW) team has been awarded the Operating Department’s esteemed Safety Bell, presented annually to the railroad’s Transportation service unit with the best overall safety record.
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“This team showcased world-class safety performance,” said Eric Gehringer, executive vice president-Operations. “Their achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and the commitment of the more than 1,000 railroaders who prioritize safety daily.”
The Safety Bell award is a tribute to the rich history of the railroad industry.
“In the early days, the first safety device leading the way on steam locomotives was the bell,” said Rod Doerr, vice president and chief safety officer. “This award exemplifies teamwork and a steadfast resolve toward safety. Much like the bell of old, PNW is leading the way.”
The service unit, which spans nearly 2,500 track miles across four states, attributes its success to a culture of learning and peer feedback with a focus on continuous improvement.
“PNW’s dedication is why we finished at the top,” said Erik Erickson, general manager-Transportation, PNW Service Unit. “We united across crafts to accomplish excellence in safety and operating practices.”
Several workgroups contributed to the team’s success by achieving injury-free records in 2024, including: Albina, Hinkle, Klamath Falls, Ontario, Salem and The Dalles, Oregon; Huntington, Longview, Seattle, Spokane and Wallula, Washington; and Nampa and Sandpoint, Idaho.
The Safety Bell will travel across the service unit throughout 2025 as a celebratory symbol of collective hard work and dedication.
Did you know? Approximately 27,000 Union Pacific Operating employees achieved an injury-free record in 2024, earning them the unique honor of a first-edition recognition patch for safety excellence.
 team has been awarded the Operating Department’s esteemed Safety Bell, presented annually to the railroad’s Transportation service unit with the best overall safety record.','PinALink',%20'height=550,width=700');void(0))
