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Rail Security

The Surface and Intermodal Security (SIMS) Directorate manages Transport Canada's rail security program.  Guided by the Railway Safety Act, the International Bridges and Tunnels Act, the Transportation of Dangerous Good Act, and the federal government’s transportation security mandate, SIMS Directorate works with its partners to enhance the security of surface and intermodal transportation across Canada.

SIMS Directorate’s activities span a broad variety of surface, intermodal and multimodal security interests, including passenger and freight rail, urban transit, international bridges and tunnels, and transportation of dangerous goods (by truck and train).

Railways

The security of federally-regulated railways in Canada is subject to the  Railway Safety Act. A major achievement of the Transport Canada Rail Security program is the establishment and ongoing work related to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Transport Canada and the Railway Association of Canada (RAC) on November 15, 2007.

The MOU reflects the core principles and best practices of the railway industry and is an important voluntary action by RAC members to enhance the security of rail operations.

Urban Transit

In June 2006, Transport Canada implemented a three-year contribution program to address immediate high-risk security priorities in Canada's major urban transit systems.

The program targeted the high volume passenger areas of commuter rail and urban transit, with a focus on major urban transit systems and equipment. This program provided financial assistance to commuter rail and public transit operators in designated major metropolitan areas to accelerate the implementation of new and enhanced security measures.

Since the conclusion of the Transit-Secure Contribution Program in March 2009, Transport Canada continues to provide codes of practice, security tools and guidance for stakeholders to improve the security of surface transportation systems.

If you would like further information, please contact us by e-mail at sims-stti@tc.gc.ca

Date modified:
2012-05-16