NTSB slams Norfolk Southern for controlled burn of toxic chemicals after Ohio derailment

Norfolk Southern faced criticism from regulators for its decisions following a derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held a hearing where the railroad’s advocacy for a controlled explosion and burn of five tank cars of vinyl chloride was harshly criticized. The NTSB disputed Norfolk Southern’s claim that it was the only way to prevent a catastrophic explosion. Norfolk Southern defended their decision, stating it was based on the best available information at the time. The NTSB Chair criticized Norfolk Southern’s statement as insulting and an attempt to shift blame.