The Surface Branch develops federal policies and programs relating to highways and railways. Surface also handles grade separations and rail line relocations, movement of grain, transportation of dangerous goods, and road and motor vehicle safety.

In the Pacific Region, Surface is located in New Westminster, centrally located to the main rail yards the district offices of rail companies operating in B.C. Pacific Region Surface is divided in two: Railway Safety and Dangerous Goods. Road and Motor Vehicle safety is handled from Ottawa.

Railway Safety contains two divisions: Operations & Equipment and Engineering. They are responsible under the Railway Safety Act and Regulations; the monitoring of railway equipment, infrastructure, operating practices and railway signal systems; and safety improvements to railway grade crossings.

Mandate

The regional office regulates railway safety and the surface transportation of dangerous goods within the mandates of its two main divisions: Railway Safety and Transport Dangerous Goods.

For more information, contact:

Surface
Transport Canada
#225 - 625 Agnes Street
New Westminster, B.C. V3M 5Y4
Telephone Number: (604) 666-0011
Facsimile Number: (604) 666-7747
Electronic Mail: railsafety-bc@tc.gc.ca