Virginia State Corporation Commission

Would you know what to do if your vehicle were stuck on railroad tracks? Find the Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign: an important blue and white sign at every railroad crossing that can help in an emergency. Watch as Rail Safety Manager David Hirn explains where to locate the sign, the information it provides and why everyone should understand how to use it. #SeeTracksThinkTrain #RailSafety

The SCC’s railroad oversight includes over 4,200 private and public crossings, thousands of cars and containers, 69 yard facilities and a whopping 4,100 miles of track. That’s enough to stretch from Richmond to Los Angeles – and more than halfway back! #SeeTracksThinkTrain #RailSafety

Railroad safety can be a complex job with multiple elements to consider. That’s why each SCC Railroad Safety inspector specializes in one of six technical disciplines:    1. Grade crossing  2. Hazardous materials   3. Motive power and equipment  4. Operating practices  5. Signal and train control  6. Track Learn more about the SCC’s railroad safety initiatives: https://lnkd.in/enJEXsaD #SeeTracksThinkTrain #RailSafety

In Virginia, rail safety is a shared responsibility involving the railroad companies, the federal agencies and of course, the State Corporation Commission. You may be wondering, who is responsible for what?    - Railroad companies operate and maintain their railroad systems and equipment, and are responsible for complying with safety requirements.   - The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) establishes and enforces federal railroad safety requirements and works with state partners (like us!) across the country.  - SCC railroad safety inspectors work in partnership with the FRA to conduct inspections, investigate incidents and ensure overall safety across Virginia.     #SeeTracksThinkTrain #RailSafety

SCC railroad inspectors use the “Mike Stick” (commonly known as a brake stick) to inspect handholds and ensure safety while boarding. Watch as Railroad Safety Specialist Rick Johnson gives a sneak peek into the SCC’s railroad inspection toolbox. #SeeTracksThinkTrain #RailSafety

SCC railroad inspectors use track gauges to take accurate measurements, prevent hazards, and find defects that could affect the safety of our rail systems. Watch as Railroad Safety Specialist Blake Martin gives a sneak peek into the SCC’s railroad inspection toolbox. #SeeTracksThinkTrain #RailSafety

Did you know? When the SCC was created in 1902, railroad regulation was one of our original responsibilities. More than 120 years later, the Commission continues that work through our Utility and Railroad Safety division.     Today, SCC railroad safety inspectors work throughout the Commonwealth to help ensure the safe operation of Virginia railroads, from inspecting tracks and crossings, to investigating incidents and complaints, and providing education and resources to communities statewide.    Learn more during See Tracks Think Train® Week this September 21-27. #SeeTracksThinkTrain #RailSafety

From September 21-27, 2026, the SCC joins Operation Lifesaver, Inc. to remind Virginians to stay safe around railroad tracks and crossings. Follow along this week to learn more about the SCC's role in ensuring safe and reliable railroad conditions across the Commonwealth. Read the full release: https://lnkd.in/g2pN7ET6

Is your business prepared for a natural disaster? The SCC's Bureau of Insurance encourages Virginia businesses to assess their risks, review insurance coverage and have a plan in place to minimize disruptions and recover quickly if a disaster strikes. Learn more about how to prepare: https://lnkd.in/enkbfgrF

What does the SCC consider when deciding on proposed transmission line cases? The SCC looks at all the evidence submitted during the case by participants like the utility, technical experts, environmental advocates, local governments and the public. Virginia law sets the standards the Commission applies to make its decisions. If a transmission line is approved, the SCC issues a certificate authorizing construction and operation of the line. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eA_xub4x