Railroad Operation & Maintenance
Federal rail safety standards provide a regulatory framework for railroad companies which owners and operators must obey to avoid being negligent.
The manner in which railroad companies carry out operations and maintenance has a profound effect on the safety and welfare of its workers. Lack of proper safety procedures, equipment maintenance, inspection, training and record keeping can make the workplace dangerous and place workers in life threatening situations.
The following laws provide the framework for federal rail safety standards:
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Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970 assigns, by direction of the Secretary of Transportation, regulatory responsibility to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). The FRA has responsibility for all areas of railroad safety, and the authority required to investigate and prosecute violations of any rail safety law. Pursuant to the Railroad Safety Act, the FRA has created a regulatory framework for track, freight cars, operating rules, operating practices, including control of alcohol and drug use, engineer qualifications, bridge worker safety, radio use, rear end markers, glazing of windows on locomotives, cabooses, and passenger cars.
The following Acts are part of the regulatory body that the FRA uses to guide railroad operations.
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Signal Inspection Act- This act gives authority to the FRA for regulation of railroad signal systems. This regulation includes the maintenance, testing, removal or modification of signal systems.
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Accident Reports Act- All common carriers are required to submit accident reports to FRA and FRA is authorized to investigate accidents.
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Locomotive Inspection Act- This act which was originally intended for tourist/historic steam locomotives but serves as a valid basis for inspection of railroad engines in current use.
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Safety Appliance Act- This act mandates that the railroad operators employ and maintain safety devices on all rolling stock. These devices include couplers, handholds, power brakes, grab irons, draw bars, etc. on rail cars to protect rail employees. This is especially important to activities associated with switching operations.
Arnold & Itkin LLP lawyers have successfully represented victims injured in railroad accidents. Our law firm has a demonstrated track record of successfully trying cases by building a strong and persuasive case as quickly as possible.
For a free consultation, contact a railroad injury attorney at Arnold & Itkin LLP by calling toll free (866)222-2606 or by submitting the form at the top of this page.
