Railroad tracks are incredibly durable, but there are some parts of the system that can cause problems if there is even a slight amount of damage or misalignment. Whether you have tracks coming into your facility or you own a large section of track that runs between locations and is used by several railroad companies, ensuring the tracks are in good shape is critical to keeping the trains moving.

Track Inspection

Inspection of the track in your facility or the sections of track you own outside the yard is critical. The track can shift and separate with changes in the ground over time, and if you are not performing regular inspections of each track section, you can end up with gaps or twists in the track that could cause the train to derail.

Even slow-speed derailments can cause significant problems, and if you have the track inspected regularly, you can avoid problems and keep the tracks in top condition, so the trains using them do not have any issues as they pass over them.

Having an inspector from a railroad track repair company is your best option. The inspector will look at the steel tracks, the wood ties, and the bed under the tracks during the inspection process. If they find a problem in any part of the system, they will note it and report the problem to you so you can effect repairs immediately. In extreme cases, the inspector may shut down a section of the line until the repairs are made, especially if they find a problem that could present a safety concern. 

Using a Maintenance Service

Keeping your track clear, safe, and ready for use is essential, but if you have a lot of track to maintain, you may not have enough manpower to service the tracks properly. Working with a railroad track repair contractor to keep the track in good shape is a good option. If you are considering this as an option, you need to make sure you are working with a railroad track repair company that has plenty of experience and a good reputation in the industry. 

Shared Tracks and Maintenance

If you own a section of rail that is used by other railroads, the maintenance cost on the line may be something you want to consider splitting up between the carriers using the line. Sharing the cost of maintenance can make it easier to ensure the tracks stay in good condition, and are safe for everyone to use. 

Keeping up with the maintenance will help lower the chances of downtime on the track and keep all the trains moving. Look for railroad track repair in your area today.