You’re waiting at the train station on the way to work. Then you hear it: SEPTA’s Regional Rail trains are delayed due to “slippery rail.”
The transit agency said this is peak slippery rail season and commuters should be aware.
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Here’s how SEPTA explains slippery rail:
Slippery rail is a condition that occurs when falling leaves, crushed by passing rail vehicles, deposit a residue on the tracks. This coating decreases the friction of a train’s wheels, creating slippery rails. When this happens, travel speeds are reduced to maintain safe operations, especially on inclines and declines and when vehicles approach station platform areas.
Crews are working overnight to clear and clean Regional Rail tracks, according to SEPTA.
A mix of water and a gel is used to clear the rails of oily deposits and leaf residue on tracks. Pieces of high-pressure washing equipment is also deployed, SEPTA said.
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Another tool to combat slippery rail that is used by SEPTA crews is spreading sand on the tracks to increase traction.
“During slippery rail season, there are times when we will have to reduce travel speeds to ensure that we maintain safe operations. We will continue to use all options available to minimize the impact to our customers, and we urge them to plan ahead and check for service updates.” Slippery rail season typically runs from late October through mid-December. Customers are most likely to experience delays during wet and windy weather,” SEPTA General Manager Jeffrey Knueppel said.
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SEPTA advises riders to check their website and app for real-time travel updates.
