(NewsNation) — The National Transportation Safety Board said Norfolk Southern failed to provide first responders with important information following a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.
The agency also found that an overheated wheel bearing caused the derailment and that the vent and burn that released toxic chemicals into the environment was unnecessary. The NTSB issued a list of recommendations that include more training for first responders and federal standards for sensors.
Resident Christina Siceloff told NewsNation that isn’t surprising to those who live in the area and who have been complaining of continued contamination and health problems that began after the derailment.
“It wasn’t really a surprise to us that the vent and burn was not needed,” she said.
A former first responder herself, Siceloff also expressed support for more training as recommended by the NTSB.
The toll of the derailment is still being discovered, with recent data showing that toxic chemicals spread to 16 states across the Midwest. Vinyl chloride, one of the chemicals released during the burn, has been linked to brain, lung and blood cancers.
Other chemicals have health effects, including skin irritation and shortness of breath, along with other symptoms.
As the NTSB held its final meeting, residents are still seeking answers about the derailment, the aftermath and the long-term health effects they could experience. Many have questioned the government response and transparency from officials, but Siceloff said the NTSB is an exception.
“The NTSB has been probably the most transparent government agency we’ve dealt with,” she said. “They listen to us whenever they come in. They’ve asked for our input on things.”
The agency is set to hold another meeting with residents Tuesday night to respond to their questions about the determination.
