CN and CPKC block hazardous goods as potential strike looms, threatening major disruptions in supply chains
Canada's two main railways are taking precautionary measures ahead of a potential strike or lockout next week, according to Financial Post.
Canadian National Railway Co. (CN) has begun blocking shipments, particularly hazardous goods from the United States, in preparation for a possible work stoppage.
An internal memo obtained by The Canadian Press reveals that CN plans to expand the embargo to additional commodities this week if no agreement is reached with workers.
Meanwhile, Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. (CPKC) has announced on Friday that it would temporarily ban the transportation of dangerous materials to prevent them from being stranded on the tracks in the event of job action.
The railways issued warnings last week that they would lock out approximately 9,300 engineers, conductors, and yard workers on August 22 if negotiations over scheduling and wages remain unresolved.
Shippers and producers have expressed concerns that a work stoppage could severely impact the country's supply chain, halting freight traffic and disrupting various industries.
