Have you ever wondered how hazardous products get moved around? Most of us deal with only a few such compounds, from gasoline for our vehicles to household cleaning products. These are just a drop in the proverbial barrel. Large quantities of hazardous goods are shipped across the country - and further - every day. These include oil and gasoline, explosives, pesticides, radioactive materials, industrial chemicals, and gases.

Some products must travel long distances to get from the supplier to consumers. However, air travel is an unlikely method, being too risky for many dangerous goods. Shipping certainly works for transoceanic trips and is used commonly for many products. Individual cargo and tanker trucks are able to carry smaller amounts. But trains are the most common carriers for large quantities that need to move longer distances.

Unfortunately, trains do occasionally collide or derail. In British Columbia, certain areas have become worrisome hot spots for train accidents, particularly near the small community of Lytton. Rail lines often traverse rugged terrain and frequently follow river valleys. This combination - along with harsh weather - can lead to landslides, mudslides, and other dramatic derailments. Then there is the risk of subsequent river pollution. Recent spills have included ethylene glycol, sodium hydroxide, and sulphur.

Along with difficult geographic challenges, trains need to be properly maintained and loaded. The Canadian Transportation Safety Board has focused on wheels as one potential cause of problems. Increased pressure for cargo transportation also contributes to general wear and tear of rail tracks and equipment. Heavily laden trains are more unwieldy to control and may be difficult to stop in an emergency.

In 2007, there were 88 rail accidents that involved the leakage of dangerous goods. Overall, there were 182 accidents where dangerous goods were involved, including derailments, incidents at crossings, and collisions. As of the end of April 2008 (the most recent statistics available), there were 19 leaks of dangerous goods and 72 accidents involving dangerous goods.

New recommendations to address the problems include improved tank car construction - to prevent leaks when accidents occur - and more frequent replacement of worn rails. Along with these measures, it is important to have effective emergency response teams - including in those communities most affected. And general education is also key - to reduce the potential for accidents through human error. Deterring people from walking on rail tracks, tackling unmonitored train crossings, and well-trained rail employees are also part of the picture.