Harrisburg Intermodal Rail Yard:
The Harrisburg Rail Yard, located in Pennsylvania, is a significant hub in the region’s rail network. It was established in the early 20th century, around 1904, to serve as a major freight interchange point. The yard employs approximately 500 workers who handle various operations, including the sorting, assembling, and dispatching of trains. On average, about 80 trains pass through the Harrisburg Rail Yard daily, making it one of the busiest rail yards in the state.
However, the yard is also associated with various environmental and health concerns. Workers at the yard are exposed to several toxins, including diesel exhaust, asbestos, and chemical solvents. Diesel exhaust contains particulate matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are known to cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and an increased risk of lung cancer. Asbestos exposure can lead to asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive cancer. Chemical solvents used in cleaning and maintenance can result in chronic health issues such as liver and kidney damage, neurological disorders, and increased cancer risk. The presence of these toxins not only affects the health of the workers but also poses potential risks to the surrounding community.
