On February 6-7, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Shanxi Province were hit by extremely cold weather, with temperatures plunging to -30°C, average wind speeds of five to six degrees, and gusts exceeding seven degrees. Some areas also met sporadic snowfall. The weather condition posed severe challenges for coal transportation. In response to the impacts of this cold wave, all staff at Xinshuo Railway remained vigilant and prepared, confronted the cold wave with resolve, and stayed at the transportation and production frontline to ensure a stable start, steady output, and consistent dispatching & transportation. Meanwhile, the Company implemented a strict duty policy, enhanced on-site safety management, and made emergency response preparations to address the temperature drop and secure stable energy transportation with all-round efforts.
The Company closely monitored weather changes, strengthened communication with meteorological departments, and timely released warning information to scientifically adjust transportation and organization plans. On-site safety inspection was stepped up, with dynamic adjustments to outdoor operation duration and contents based on actual conditions. Focusing on outdoor operation and personnel safety, thorough safety preparations were made before operations, and workers were supervised to wear appropriate winter personal protective equipment. During operations, standard operating procedures were strictly followed, with safety training enhanced to raise awareness and prevent physical injuries. All loading stations were fully prepared to handle frozen vehicles, stocked up on antifreeze, strengthened the control of the loading process, and tightly controlled the spraying quantity and quality during loading operations. Snow removal from the vehicle undercarriages was organized to make emergency preparations and prevent the incidents of frozen vehicles. In response to the occurrence of frost damage and vehicle runaway under gales and low temperatures, route-patrol efforts were intensified, with measures taken to reinforce train stations against slipping. Increased inspection frequencies for ice in tunnels were implemented, and timely deicing activities were conducted at freezing spots. Furthermore, comprehensive inspections of the equipment and facilities for stations along the railway were carried out, particularly focusing on the condition of tower columns, station buildings, and auxiliary structures of buildings. Workers were reminded to avoid lingering under billboards and temporary structures. Risk management and control for driving under adverse weather conditions were emphasized, with strict adherence to the Organization Standards for Driving in Severe Weather Conditions. Heightened vigilance and operational controls were emphasized, along with the analysis and evaluation of onboard video and monitoring data to ensure effective implementation of safety measures. In addition, the maintenance and inspection of locomotives and self-propelled equipment were intensified, with cold-proof insulation for critical components including oil-water pipelines and braking systems. Thorough inspections of wind-driven equipment, oil-water pipelines, and various valves were conducted to ensure their proper functioning. Snow and ice removal along the tracks and inspections for track freeze damage were reinforced, with maintenance of turnout snow removal devices prioritized. Furthermore, sufficient tools for snow and ice removal were prepared, and timely removal of accumulated snow and ice was ensured to maintain safe and unobstructed tracks.
