Slippery Rail is the name for a condition that occurs when falling leaves, crushed by passing vehicles, deposit a residue on the tracks. This coating decreases the friction of a train’s wheels, creating slickness on the rails. When this happens, travel speeds are reduced to maintain safe operations, especially on inclines, declines and when vehicles approach the station platform.
How does SEPTA maintain safe service?
SEPTA has an aggressive maintenance program that employs a combination of water, gel and sand to remove oily deposits on the tracks. SEPTA runs three wash trains each night to pressure wash the rails to blast away the leaves and leaf residue and lay the traction adhesion gel. This action is effective in removing debris from the tracks, but customers may still experience intermittent service delays caused by slippery rails.
How long does the Slippery Rail Season last?
The length of slippery rail season depends on fall weather conditions, but typically runs from late October through mid-December. Until the weather turns frosty and all the leaves have fallen, SEPTA maintains a consistent program of cleaning and removal.
Rider tips & safety information
Getting riders to their destination without delays or inconvenience is very important to SEPTA, but ensuring your trip is safe always takes precedence. Please allow some extra time to complete your trip and be alert if slippery rails cause trains to slide past some stations.