FRA proposes changes to track, brake system safety rules

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) yesterday announced it has proposed new rules to update current track safety standards (TSS) and "improve the effectiveness" of existing brake system safety requirements.

Both proposed rulemakings are aimed at increasing safety and saving time, FRA officials said in a press release.

The proposed TSS amendments would allow continuous testing for rail inspections and remove an inspection-method exception for high-density commuter lines. The proposal also would add several recommendations from the FRA's Rail Safety Advisory Committee.

"It's time to modernize existing regulations to permit methods of inspecting, testing, and maintaining track and mechanical equipment that are demonstrably safe,” said FRA Administrator Ronald Batory. "These updates are consistent with the performance and evidence-based standards that are already being used by many railroads."

The proposed TSS rule can be viewed by clicking on this link.

Meanwhile, the proposed miscellaneous amendments to brake system safety standards and codification of waivers would:
• allow trains to go without Class I air brake testing for 24 hours, extending the requirement from four hours, which is expected to significantly reduce number of brake tests performed while increasing network velocity; and
• incorporate end-of-train device waivers related to battery change out, marker lamp height, and the use of "helper” locomotives to initiate emergency braking.

The proposed brake system rule can be viewed by clicking on this link.

Public comments on the proposed rulemakings are due 60 days after they are published in the Federal Register.