Safety Concerns Arise Over Language Barriers in U.S.-Mexico Rail Operations

Sun Dec 21 2025 22:12:43 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Inspections reveal Mexican train crews struggling with English safety communications, prompting a review of practices by major railroads and authorities.

Recent inspections have uncovered significant communication challenges for Mexican train crews operating within the U.S. Railroads Union Pacific and CPKC are urged to ensure that crews possess adequate English proficiency to adhere to safety regulations. Transportation officials express concern about potential risks when these crews operate without understanding crucial instructions, leading to calls for stricter compliance measures.

OMAHA, Neb. — A series of inspections have highlighted alarming challenges regarding the English proficiency of Mexican train crews operating in the United States. Crews, who transport freight trains across the border to U.S. rail yards, have reportedly struggled to understand critical safety information communicated in English, a situation that has raised serious safety concerns among transportation officials and labor unions alike.

Union Pacific and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC), the two major railroads involved, utilize foreign crews to facilitate the swift transfer of freight services between Mexico and the U.S. However, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has recently urged both companies to ensure their crews possess adequate English skills, emphasizing that safety and security implications could arise if insufficient communication occurs during operations.

The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen has expressed long-standing concerns about the use of foreign crews, aligning with the FRA's new directives to re-examine operational practices. Inspectors noted that some crews had difficulty comprehending safety bulletins and essential regulations, including those pertaining to hazardous materials and emergency procedures.

According to FRA Administrator David Fink, if issues persist, enforcement actions could be taken against the railroads. Union Pacific attempted to provide support by using translators at their rail yards, but the future of this support remains uncertain. CPKC's inspections revealed numerous instances of crew members being unable to grasp key operational instructions, raising further alarm about the crew’s ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.

Unions have rallied behind the administration's decision to enforce English proficiency, citing a need for effective training and communication to ensure public safety. They argue that improved language skills are vital for seamless communication with dispatchers and first responders, especially when operating trains on U.S. soil.

Union representatives have also flagged instances of criminal activities involving crews crossing the U.S. border, leading to heightened scrutiny and a call for stringent safety standards. For instance, arrests related to drug trafficking and human smuggling were noted, further enhancing the need for regulation.

In response to the findings, Union Pacific has committed to ensuring compliance with regulatory measures while advocating for smooth freight operations across borders. CPKC officials reiterated their dedication to safety and proactive communication, assuring that international crews do not travel beyond 10 miles into U.S. territory.

The administration’s actions reflect growing pressures to enforce language standards amidst ongoing concerns about transportation safety, with the goal of safeguarding the national supply chain and the communities impacted by rail transport.