SEPTA is preparing for slippery rail season, and the authority is asking Regional Rail customers to plan for possible delays.

Slippery rail is a condition that occurs when falling leaves, crushed by passing rail vehicles, deposit a residue on the tracks. This coating decreases the friction of a train’s wheels, creating slippery rails. When this happens, travel speeds are reduced to maintain safe operations, especially on inclines and declines, and when vehicles approach station platform areas.

“Getting our riders to their destination without delays or inconvenience is important, but the safety of our customers and employees always takes precedence,” said SEPTA General Manager and CEO Leslie S. Richards.

SEPTA takes a proactive approach to battling slippery rails, deploying personnel during overnight hours. Crews began cleaning the tracks this week and will continue working nightly through early December.

A combination of water and gel is used to remove oily deposits from the tracks, and crews use high-pressure washing equipment to blast away leaves and their residue. In addition, sand is spread on the tracks to help increase traction.

Slippery rail season typically runs from late October through mid-December. Customers are most likely to experience delays during wet and windy weather.

For real-time service updates, please visit septa.org, follow @SEPTA on Twitter, or download the official SEPTA app.