Class I Railroad Derailment
Rail derailments require a fast response and thorough assessment of the incident to minimize environmental impacts. Responding parties must be knowledgeable in cleanup and waste management and provide regulatory representation and support. Pinnacle Engineering is U.S. Coast Guard Classified as a Spill Removal Organization (OSRO). We respond to incidents 24/7, guiding rail clients through site analysis, investigation, and remediation while providing regulatory representation.
Environmental Challenge
Pinnacle Engineering was hired by a Class I railroad to direct emergency response efforts related to a crude oil train derailment, oil release, and fire that occurred adjacent to a large wetland area.
Emergency Response & Remediation Solutions
Emergency response activities included transloading of residual oil from damaged cars, the recovery of oil from surface water and wetland areas, and limited excavation of impacted soils beneath the track bed and within the right-of-way. Based on previous successful efforts using bioremediation at crude oil release sites and the recommendation provided by Pinnacle Engineering, regulatory officials approved the use of bioremediation injection into the ballast to support additional reduction of oil.
Analysis & Results
Pinnacle utilized existing infrastructure installed during the initial response efforts — containment trenches, sumps, a water treatment system, and dewatering pumps — to complete three bioapplication events over the course of two years.
A series of piezometers were placed along the collection trench and rail bed slope for periodic monitoring. The team monitored for oil sheen, microbial cell counts, and dissolved oil constituents to guide the need for and timing of bioapplication events, and to identify when targeted goals were met. Pinnacle provided progress reports to the regulatory agency on behalf of the client.
These efforts proved successful, allowing for site closure and for the affected area to be returned to its original state.
Our goal is to continue to build upon our reputation of delivering high-quality services, maintaining open and responsive communications, and providing cost-effective solutions that consistently meet our clients’ needs. Our goal is to continue to build upon our reputation of delivering high-quality services, maintaining open and responsive communications, and providing cost-effective solutions that consistently meet our clients’ needs.
Comprehensive Solutions for the Railroad Industry
No challenge is too great when you have a trusted partner guiding you every step of the way. We serve the railroad industry with services that address your needs for emergency response, compliance, data collection, engineering and permitting, and inspection and analysis. As a regional representative and extension of your team, we help you navigate environmental regulatory requirements to achieve successful results.
Pinnacle’s approach is not like most consultants; they work with our company’s best interests in mind and propose cost and time-effective remedies over remedies that are more financially beneficial to themselves. This has also built a tremendous level of trust that makes working together that much easier.
Environmental Engineer - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is very responsive to requests. They have not missed a deadline on any service thus far. They seem willing to go the extra mile when asked for input on potential projects.
Environmental Manager - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is local and able to respond quickly. In addition to being a subject matter experts, they can take the lead with little input needed from me to do so. Pinnacle is professional, knowledgeable, and customer service oriented. They are dependable and are respected and known within the local regulatory world.
Environmental Response Manager - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is key to our company’s operations in my area of responsibility. Honestly, there is not another professional contractor that works any harder for us than the staff at Pinnacle Eng. If they can’t do it in-house, they know someone that can. They are “Problem Solvers” at the highest level.
Manager, Midwest Operations - Oil & Gas Client
I worked closely with Pinnacle at a previous role and then incorporated their services when I moved companies. I am a huge fan of the company. They are down to earth and incredible to work with. Their portfolio is extensive and the staff they have are all amazing to work with. I am grateful to partner with them in each of my roles.
Environmental Manager - Aerospace Manufacturing
I work with Pinnacle daily over the last few years. The top impression is that they deliver. They follow through and do what they say they are going to do. They are professional and keep us out of trouble.
VP of Engineering & Construction - Renewable Energy Client
Pinnacle is always there for us. Their broad range of expertise from environmental response to environmental permitting to their vast subcontractor network makes them an invaluable resource to our organization. I call them for everything from routine projects to largescale rail-based incidents. I’m thankful to have them as a partner.
Manager of Environmental Remediation - Class I Railroad
Environmental Engineering Solutions for a Better Tomorrow
At Pinnacle Engineering, we understand the importance of collaboration and being responsible stewards of the environment. We act as partners, working closely with you to understand your emergency situation, identify challenges, and help you determine the best path forward.
