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[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 49, Volume 4]
[Revised as of October 1, 2003]
[CITE: 49CFR214]
[Page 143-171]
TITLE 49--TRANSPORTATION
CHAPTER II--FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PART 214--RAILROAD WORKPLACE SAFETY
Subpart A--General
Sec.
214.1 Purpose and scope.
214.3 Application.
214.4 Preemptive effect.
214.5 Responsibility for compliance.
214.7 Definitions.
Subpart B--Bridge Worker Safety Standards
214.101 Purpose and scope.
214.103 Fall protection, generally.
214.105 Fall protection systems standards and practices.
214.107 Working over or adjacent to water.
214.109 Scaffolding.
214.111 Personal protective equipment, generally.
214.113 Head protection.
214.115 Foot protection.
214.117 Eye and face protection.
Subpart C--Roadway Worker Protection
214.301 Purpose and scope.
214.302 Information collection requirements.
214.303 Railroad on-track safety programs, generally.
214.305 Compliance dates.
214.307 Review and approval of individual on-track safety programs by
FRA.
214.309 On-track safety program documents.
214.311 Responsibility of employers.
214.313 Responsibility of individual roadway workers.
214.315 Supervision and communication.
214.317 On-track safety procedures, generally.
214.319 Working limits, generally.
214.321 Exclusive track occupancy.
214.323 Foul time.
214.325 Train coordination.
214.327 Inaccessible track.
214.329 Train approach warning provided by watchmen/lookouts.
214.331 Definite train location.
214.333 Informational line-ups of trains.
214.335 On-track safety procedures for roadway work groups.
214.337 On-track safety procedures for lone workers.
214.339 Audible warning from trains.
214.341 Roadway maintenance machines.
214.343 Training and qualification, general.
214.345 Training for all roadway workers.
214.347 Training and qualification for lone workers.
214.349 Training and qualification of watchmen/lookouts.
214.351 Training and qualification of flagmen.
214.353 Training and qualification of roadway workers who provide on-
track safety for roadway work groups.
214.355 Training and qualification in on-track safety for operators of
roadway maintenance machines.
Subpart D--On-Track Roadway Maintenance Machines and Hi-Rail Vehicles
214.501 Purpose and scope.
214.503 Good-faith challenges; procedures for notification and
resolution.
214.505 Required environmental control and protection systems for new
on-track roadway maintenance machines with enclosed cabs.
214.507 Required safety equipment for new on-track roadway maintenance
machines.
214.509 Required visual illumination and reflective devices for new on-
track roadway maintenance machines.
214.511 Required audible warning devices for new on-track roadway
maintenance machines.
214.513 Retrofitting of existing on-track roadway maintenance machines;
general.
214.515 Overhead covers for existing on-track roadway maintenance
machines.
214.517 Retrofitting of existing on-track roadway maintenance machines
manufactured on or after January 1, 1991.
214.518 Safe and secure positions for riders.
214.519 Floors, decks, stairs, and ladders of on-track roadway
maintenance machines.
[[Page 144]]
214.521 Flagging equipment for on-track roadway maintenance machines and
hi-rail vehicles.
214.523 Hi-rail vehicles.
214.525 Towing with on-track roadway maintenance machines or hi-rail
vehicles.
214.527 On-track roadway maintenance machines; inspection for compliance
and schedule for repairs.
214.529 In-service failure of primary braking system.
214.531 Schedule of repairs; general.
214.533 Schedule of repairs subject to availability of parts.
Appendix A to Part 214--Schedule of Civil Penalties
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 20103, 20107 and 49 CFR 1.49
Source: 57 FR 28127, June 24, 1992, unless otherwise noted.
Subpart A--General
Sec. 214.1 Purpose and scope.
(a) The purpose of this part is to prevent accidents and casualties
to employees involved in certain railroad inspection, maintenance and
construction activities.
(b) This part prescribes minimum Federal safety standards for the
railroad workplace safety subjects addressed herein. This part does not
restrict a railroad or railroad contractor from adopting and enforcing
additional or more stringent requirements not inconsistent with this
part.
Sec. 214.3 Application.
This part applies to railroads that operate rolling equipment on
track that is part of the general railroad system of transportation.
Sec. 214.4 Preemptive effect.
Under 49 U.S.C. 20106 (formerly section 205 of the Federal Railroad
Safety Act of 1970 (45 U.S.C. 434)), issuance of the regulations in this
part preempts any State law, rule, regulation, order, or standard
covering the same subject matter, except a provision directed at an
essentially local safety hazard that is not incompatible with this part
and that does not unreasonably burden on interstate commerce.
[61 FR 65975, Dec. 16, 1996]
Sec. 214.5 Responsibility for compliance.
Any person (an entity of any type covered under 1 U.S.C. 1,
including but not limited to the following: a railroad; a manager,
supervisor, official, or other employee or agent of a railroad; any
owner, manufacturer, lessor, or lessee of railroad equipment, track, or
facilities; any independent contractor providing goods or services to a
railroad; and any employee of such owner, manufacturer, lessor, lessee,
or independent contractor) who violates any requirement of this part or
causes the violation of any such requirement is subject to a civil
penalty of at least $500 and not more than $11,000 per violation, except
that penalties may be assessed against individuals only for willful
violations, and where a grossly negligent violation or a pattern of
repeated violations has created an imminent hazard of death or injury,
or has caused death or injury, a penalty not to exceed $22,000 per
violation may be assessed. See appendix A to this part for a statement
of agency civil penalty policy.
[57 FR 28127, June 24, 1992, as amended at 63 FR 11620, Mar. 10, 1998]
Sec. 214.7 Definitions.
Adjacent tracks mean two or more tracks with track centers spaced
less than 25 feet apart.
Anchorage means a secure point of attachment for lifelines, lanyards
or deceleration devices that is independent of the means of supporting
or suspending the employee.
Body belt means a strap that can be secured around the waist or body
and attached to a lanyard, lifeline, or deceleration device.
Body harness means a device with straps that is secured about the
person in a manner so as to distribute the fall arrest forces over (at
least) the thighs, shoulders, pelvis, waist, and chest and that can be
attached to a lanyard, lifeline, or deceleration device.
Class I, Class II, and Class III have the meaning assigned by, Title
49 Code of Federal Regulations part 1201, General Instructions 1-1.
Competent person means one who is capable of identifying existing
and predictable hazards in the workplace and
[[Page 145]]
who is authorized to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
Control operator means the railroad employee in charge of a remotely
controlled switch or derail, an interlocking, or a controlled point, or
a segment of controlled track.
Controlled track means track upon which the railroad's operating
rules require that all movements of trains must be authorized by a train
dispatcher or a control operator.
Deceleration device means any mechanism, including, but not limited
to, rope grabs, ripstitch lanyards, specially woven lanyards, tearing or
deforming lanyards, and automatic self-retracting lifelines/lanyards
that serve to dissipate a substantial amount of energy during a fall
arrest, or otherwise limit the energy on a person during fall arrest.
Definite train location means a system for establishing on-track
safety by providing roadway workers with information about the earliest
possible time that approaching trains may pass specific locations as
prescribed in Sec. 214.331 of this part.
Designated official means any person(s) designated by the employer
to receive notification of non-complying conditions on on-track roadway
maintenance machines and hi-rail vehicles.
Effective securing device when used in relation to a manually
operated switch or derail means one which is:
(a) Vandal resistant;
(b) Tamper resistant; and
(c) Designed to be applied, secured, uniquely tagged and removed
only by the class, craft or group of employees for whom the protection
is being provided.
Employee means an individual who is engaged or compensated by a
railroad or by a contractor to a railroad to perform any of the duties
defined in this part.
Employer means a railroad, or a contractor to a railroad, that
directly engages or compensates individuals to perform any of the duties
defined in this part.
Equivalent means alternative designs, materials, or methods that the
railroad or railroad contractor can demonstrate will provide equal or
greater safety for employees than the means specified in this part.
Exclusive track occupancy means a method of establishing working
limits on controlled track in which movement authority of trains and
other equipment is withheld by the train dispatcher or control operator,
or restricted by flagmen, as prescribed in Sec. 214.321 of this part.
Flagman when used in relation to roadway worker safety means an
employee designated by the railroad to direct or restrict the movement
of trains past a point on a track to provide on-track safety for roadway
workers, while engaged solely in performing that function.
Foul time is a method of establishing working limits on controlled
track in which a roadway worker is notified by the train dispatcher or
control operator that no trains will operate within a specific segment
of controlled track until the roadway worker reports clear of the track,
as prescribed in Sec. 214.323 of this part.
Fouling a track means the placement of an individual or an item of
equipment in such proximity to a track that the individual or equipment
could be struck by a moving train or on-track equipment, or in any case
is within four feet of the field side of the near running rail.
Free fall means the act of falling before the personal fall arrest
system begins to apply force to arrest the fall.
Free fall distance means the vertical displacement of the fall
arrest attachment point on a person's body harness between onset of the
fall and the point at which the system begins to apply force to arrest
the fall. This distance excludes deceleration distance and lifeline and
lanyard elongation, but includes any deceleration device slide distance
or self-retracting lifeline/lanyard extension before they operate and
fall arrest forces occur.
Hi-rail vehicle means a roadway maintenance machine that is
manufactured to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and is
equipped with retractable flanged wheels so that the vehicle may travel
over the highway or on railroad tracks.
Hi-rail vehicle, new means a hi-rail vehicle that is ordered after
December 26,
[[Page 146]]
2003 or completed after September 27, 2004.
Inaccessible track means a method of establishing working limits on
non-controlled track by physically preventing entry and movement of
trains and equipment.
Individual train detection means a procedure by which a lone worker
acquires on-track safety by seeing approaching trains and leaving the
track before they arrive and which may be used only under circumstances
strictly defined in this part.
Informational line-up of trains means information provided in a
prescribed format to a roadway worker by the train dispatcher regarding
movements of trains authorized or expected on a specific segment of
track during a specific period of time.
Lanyard means a flexible line of rope, wire rope, or strap that is
used to secure a body harness to a deceleration device, lifeline, or
anchorage.
Lifeline means a component of a fall arrest system consisting of a
flexible line that connects to an anchorage at one end to hang
vertically (vertical lifeline) or to an anchorage at both ends to
stretch horizontally (horizontal lifeline), and that serves as a means
for connecting other components of a personal fall arrest system to the
anchorage.
Lone worker means an individual roadway worker who is not being
afforded on-track safety by another roadway worker, who is not a member
of a roadway work group, and who is not engaged in a common task with
another roadway worker.
Non-controlled track means track upon which trains are permitted by
railroad rule or special instruction to move without receiving
authorization from a train dispatcher or control operator.
On-track roadway maintenance machine means a self-propelled, rail-
mounted, non-highway, maintenance machine whose light weight is in
excess of 7,500 pounds, and whose purpose is not for the inspection of
railroad track.
On-track roadway maintenance machine, existing means any on-track
roadway maintenance machine that does not meet the definition of a ``new
on-track roadway maintenance machine.''
On-track roadway maintenance machine, new means an on-track roadway
maintenance machine that is ordered after December 26, 2003, and
completed after September 27, 2004.
On-track safety means a state of freedom from the danger of being
struck by a moving railroad train or other railroad equipment, provided
by operating and safety rules that govern track occupancy by personnel,
trains and on-track equipment.
Personal fall arrest system means a system used to arrest the fall
of a person from a working level. It consists of an anchorage,
connectors, body harness, lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or
combination of these.
Qualified means a status attained by an employee who has
successfully completed any required training for, has demonstrated
proficiency in, and has been authorized by the employer to perform the
duties of a particular position or function.
Railroad means all forms of non-highway ground transportation that
run on rails or electro-magnetic guideways, including (1) commuter or
other short-haul rail passenger service in a metropolitan or suburban
area, and (2) high-speed ground transportation systems that connect
metropolitan areas, without regard to whether they use new technologies
not associated with traditional railroads. Such term does not include
rapid transit operations within an urban area that are not connected to
the general railroad system of transportation.
Railroad bridge means a structure supporting one or more railroad
tracks above land or water with a span length of 12 feet or more
measured along the track centerline. This term applies to the entire
structure between the faces of the backwalls of abutments or equivalent
components, regardless of the number of spans, and includes all such
structures, whether of timber, stone, concrete, metal, or any
combination thereof.
Railroad bridge worker or bridge worker means any employee of, or
employee of a contractor of, a railroad owning or responsible for the
construction, inspection, testing, or maintenance of a
[[Page 147]]
bridge whose assigned duties, if performed on the bridge, include
inspection, testing, maintenance, repair, construction, or
reconstruction of the track, bridge structural members, operating
mechanisms and water traffic control systems, or signal, communication,
or train control systems integral to that bridge.
Restricted speed means a speed that will permit a train or other
equipment to stop within one-half the range of vision of the person
operating the train or other equipment, but not exceeding 20 miles per
hour, unless further restricted by the operating rules of the railroad.
Roadway maintenance machine means a device powered by any means of
energy other than hand power which is being used on or near railroad
track for maintenance, repair, construction or inspection of track,
bridges, roadway, signal, communications, or electric traction systems.
Roadway maintenance machines may have road or rail wheels or may be
stationary.
Roadway work group means two or more roadway workers organized to
work together on a common task.
Roadway worker means any employee of a railroad, or of a contractor
to a railroad, whose duties include inspection, construction,
maintenance or repair of railroad track, bridges, roadway, signal and
communication systems, electric traction systems, roadway facilities or
roadway maintenance machinery on or near track or with the potential of
fouling a track, and flagmen and watchmen/lookouts as defined in this
section.
Self-retracting lifeline/lanyard means a deceleration device that
contains a drum-wound line that may be slowly extracted from, or
retracted onto, the drum under slight tension during normal employee
movement, and which, after onset of a fall, automatically locks the drum
and arrests the fall.
Snap-hook means a connector comprised of a hook-shaped member with a
normally closed keeper, that may be opened to permit the hook to receive
an object and, when released, automatically closes to retain the object.
Train approach warning means a method of establishing on-track
safety by warning roadway workers of the approach of trains in ample
time for them to move to or remain in a place of safety in accordance
with the requirements of this part.
Train coordination means a method of establishing working limits on
track upon which a train holds exclusive authority to move whereby the
crew of that train yields that authority to a roadway worker.
Train dispatcher means the railroad employee assigned to control and
issue orders governing the movement of trains on a specific segment of
railroad track in accordance with the operating rules of the railroad
that apply to that segment of track.
Watchman/lookout means an employee who has been annually trained and
qualified to provide warning to roadway workers of approaching trains or
on-track equipment. Watchmen/lookouts shall be properly equipped to
provide visual and auditory warning such as whistle, air horn, white
disk, red flag, lantern, fusee. A watchman/lookout's sole duty is to
look out for approaching trains/on-track equipment and provide at least
fifteen seconds advanced warning to employees before arrival of trains/
on-track equipment.
Working limits means a segment of track with definite boundaries
established in accordance with this part upon which trains and engines
may move only as authorized by the roadway worker having control over
that defined segment of track. Working limits may be established through
``exclusive track occupancy,'' ``inaccessible track,'' ``foul time'' or
``train coordination'' as defined herein.
[57 FR 28127, June 24, 1992, as amended at 61 FR 65975, Dec. 16, 1996;
67 FR 1906, Jan. 15, 2002; 68 FR 44407, July 28, 2003]
Subpart B--Bridge Worker Safety Standards
Sec. 214.101 Purpose and scope.
(a) The purpose of this subpart is to prevent accidents and
casualties arising from the performance of work on railroad bridges.
(b) This subpart prescribes minimum railroad safety rules for
railroad employees performing work on bridges. Each railroad and
railroad contractor
[[Page 148]]
may prescribe additional or more stringent operating rules, safety
rules, and other special instructions not inconsistent with this
subpart.
(c) These provisions apply to all railroad employees, railroads, and
railroad contractors performing work on railroad bridges.
(d) Any working conditions involving the protection of railroad
employees working on railroad bridges not within the subject matter
addressed by this chapter, including respiratory protection, hazard
communication, hearing protection, welding and lead exposure standards,
shall be governed by the regulations of the U.S. Department of Labor,
Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Sec. 214.103 Fall protection, generally.
(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (d) of this
section, when bridge workers work twelve feet or more above the ground
or water surface, they shall be provided and shall use a personal fall
arrest system or safety net system. All fall protection systems required
by this section shall conform to the standards set forth in Sec. 214.105
of this subpart.
(b)(1) This section shall not apply if the installation of the fall
arrest system poses a greater risk than the work to be performed. In any
action brought by FRA to enforce the fall protection requirements, the
railroad or railroad contractor shall have the burden of proving that
the installation of such device poses greater exposure to risk than
performance of the work itself.
(2) This section shall not apply to bridge workers engaged in
inspection of railroad bridges conducted in full compliance with the
following conditions:
(i) The railroad or railroad contractor has a written program in
place that requires training in, adherence to, and use of safe
procedures associated with climbing techniques and procedures to be
used;
(ii) The bridge worker to whom this exception applies has been
trained and qualified according to that program to perform bridge
inspections, has been previously and voluntarily designated to perform
inspections under the provision of that program, and has accepted the
designation;
(iii) The bridge worker to whom this exception applies is familiar
with the appropriate climbing techniques associated with all bridge
structures the bridge worker is responsible for inspecting;
(iv) The bridge worker to whom this exception applies is engaged
solely in moving on or about the bridge or observing, measuring and
recording the dimensions and condition of the bridge and its components;
and
(v) The bridge worker to whom this section applies is provided all
equipment necessary to meet the needs of safety, including any
specialized alternative systems required.
(c) This section shall not apply where bridge workers are working on
a railroad bridge equipped with walkways and railings of sufficient
height, width, and strength to prevent a fall, so long as bridge workers
do not work beyond the railings, over the side of the bridge, on ladders
or other elevation devices, or where gaps or holes exist through which a
body could fall. Where used in place of fall protection as provided for
in Sec. 214.105, this paragraph (c) is satisfied by:
(1) Walkways and railings meeting standards set forth in the
American Railway Engineering Association's Manual for Railway
Engineering; and
(2) Roadways attached to railroad bridges, provided that bridge
workers on the roadway deck work or move at a distance six feet or more
from the edge of the roadway deck, or from an opening through which a
person could fall.
(d) This section shall not apply where bridge workers are performing
repairs or inspections of a minor nature that are completed by working
exclusively between the outside rails, including but not limited to,
routine welding, spiking, anchoring, spot surfacing, and joint bolt
replacement.
[67 FR 1906, Jan. 15, 2002]
Sec. 214.105 Fall protection systems standards and practices.
(a) General requirements. All fall protection systems required by
this subpart shall conform to the following:
(1) Fall protection systems shall be used only for personal fall
protection.
[[Page 149]]
(2) Any fall protection system subjected to impact loading shall be
immediately and permanently removed from service unless fully inspected
and determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable for
reuse.
(3) All fall protection system components shall be protected from
abrasions, corrosion, or any other form of deterioration.
(4) All fall protection system components shall be inspected prior
to each use for wear, damage, corrosion, mildew, and other
deterioration. Defective components shall be permanently removed from
service.
(5) Prior to use and after any component or system is changed,
bridge workers shall be trained in the application limits of the
equipment, proper hook-up, anchoring and tie-off techniques, methods of
use, and proper methods of equipment inspection and storage.
(6) The railroad or railroad contractor shall provide for prompt
rescue of bridge workers in the event of a fall.
(7) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all
surfaces and edges shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing
parts of the system.
(8) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed or formed steel, or
made of equivalent-strength materials.
(9) Anchorages, including single- and double-head anchors, shall be
capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per bridge worker attached,
or shall be designed, installed, and used under supervision of a
qualified person as part of a complete personal fall protection system
that maintains a safety factor of at least two.
(b) Personal fall arrest systems. All components of a personal fall
arrest system shall conform to the following standards:
(1) Lanyards and vertical lifelines that tie off one bridge worker
shall have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds.
(2) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards that automatically limit
free fall distance to two feet or less shall have components capable of
sustaining a minimum static tensile load of 3,000 pounds applied to the
device with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position.
(3) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards that do not limit free
fall distance to two feet or less, ripstitch, and tearing and deformed
lanyards shall be capable of withstanding 5,000 pounds applied to the
device with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position.
(4) Horizontal lifelines shall be designed, installed, and used
under the supervision of a competent person, as part of a complete
personal fall arrest system that maintains a safety factor of at least
two.
(5) Lifelines shall not be made of natural fiber rope.
(6) Body belts shall not be used as components of personal fall
arrest systems.
(7) The personal fall arrest system shall limit the maximum
arresting force on a bridge worker to 1,800 pounds when used with a body
harness.
(8) The personal fall arrest system shall bring a bridge worker to a
complete stop and limit maximum deceleration distance a bridge worker
travels to 3.5 feet.
(9) The personal fall arrest system shall have sufficient strength
to withstand twice the potential impact energy of a bridge worker free
falling a distance of six feet, or the free fall distance permitted by
the system, whichever is less.
(10) The personal fall arrest system shall be arranged so that a
bridge worker cannot free fall more than six feet and cannot contact the
ground or any lower horizontal surface of the bridge.
(11) Personal fall arrest systems shall be worn with the attachment
point of the body harness located in the center of the wearer's back
near shoulder level, or above the wearer's head.
(12) When vertical lifelines are used, each bridge worker shall be
provided with a separate lifeline.
(13) Devices used to connect to a horizontal lifeline that may
become a vertical lifeline shall be capable of locking in either
direction.
(14) Dee-rings and snap-hooks shall be capable of sustaining a
minimum tensile load of 3,600 pounds without cracking, breaking, or
taking permanent deformation.
[[Page 150]]
(15) Dee-rings and snap-hooks shall be capable of sustaining a
minimum tensile load of 5,000 pounds.
(16) Snap-hooks shall not be connected to each other.
(17) Snap-hooks shall be dimensionally compatible with the member to
which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement, or
shall be a locking snap-hook designed to prevent unintentional
disengagement.
(18) Unless of a locking type, snap-hooks shall not be engaged:
(i) Directly, next to a webbing, rope, or wire rope;
(ii) To each other;
(iii) To a dee-ring to which another snap-hook or other connector is
attached;
(iv) To a horizontal lifeline; or
(v) To any object that is incompatibly shaped or dimensioned in
relation to the snap-hook so that unintentional disengagement could
occur.
(c) Safety net systems. Use of safety net systems shall conform to
the following standards and practices:
(1) Safety nets shall be installed as close as practicable under the
walking/working surface on which bridge workers are working, but shall
not be installed more than 30 feet below such surface.
(2) If the distance from the working surface to the net exceeds 30
feet, bridge workers shall be protected by personal fall arrest systems.
(3) The safety net shall be installed such that any fall from the
working surface to the net is unobstructed.
(4) Except as provided in this section, safety nets and net
installations shall be drop-tested at the jobsite after initial
installation and before being used as a fall protection system, whenever
relocated, after major repair, and at six-month intervals if left in one
place. The drop-test shall consist of a 400-pound bag of sand 30 inches,
plus or minus two inches, in diameter dropped into the net from the
highest (but not less than 3\1/2\ feet) working surface on which bridge
workers are to be protected.
(i) When the railroad or railroad contractor demonstrates that a
drop-test is not feasible and, as a result, the test is not performed,
the railroad or railroad contractor, or designated competent person,
shall certify that the net and its installation are in compliance with
the provisions of this section by preparing a certification record prior
to use of the net.
(ii) The certification shall include an identification of the net,
the date it was determined that the net was in compliance with this
section, and the signature of the person making this determination. Such
person's signature shall certify that the net and its installation are
in compliance with this section. The most recent certification for each
net installation shall be available at the jobsite where the subject net
is located.
(5) Safety nets and their installations shall be capable of
absorbing an impact force equal to that produced by the drop test
specified in this section.
(6) The safety net shall be installed such that there is no contact
with surfaces or structures below the net when subjected to an impact
force equal to the drop test specified in this section.
(7) Safety nets shall extend outward from the outermost projection
of the work surface as follows:
(i) When the vertical distance from the working level to the
horizontal plane of the net is 5 feet or less, the minimum required
horizontal distance of the outer edge of the net beyond the edge of the
working surface is 8 feet.
(ii) When the vertical distance from the working level to the
horizontal plane of the net is 5 feet, but less than 10 feet, the
minimum required horizontal distance of the outer edge of the net beyond
the edge of the working surface is 10 feet.
(iii) When the vertical distance from the working level to the
horizontal plane of the net is more than 10 feet, the minimum required
horizontal distance of the outer edge of the net beyond the edge of the
working surface is 13 feet.
(8) Defective nets shall not be used. Safety nets shall be inspected
at least once a week for mildew, wear, damage, and other deterioration.
Defective components shall be removed permanently from service.
(9) Safety nets shall be inspected after any occurrence that could
affect the integrity of the safety net system.
[[Page 151]]
(10) Tools, scraps, or other materials that have fallen into the
safety net shall be removed as soon as possible, and at least before the
next work shift.
(11) Each safety net shall have a border rope for webbing with a
minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds.
(12) The maximum size of each safety net mesh opening shall not
exceed 36 square inches and shall not be longer than 6 inches on any
side measured center-to-center of mesh ropes or webbing. All mesh
crossing shall be secured to prevent enlargement of the mesh opening.
(13) Connections between safety net panels shall be as strong as
integral net components and shall be spaced not more than 6 inches
apart.
[67 FR 1906, Jan. 15, 2002; 67 FR 11055, Mar. 12, 2002]
Sec. 214.107 Working over or adjacent to water.
(a) Bridge workers working over or adjacent to water with a depth of
four feet or more, or where the danger of drowning exists, shall be
provided and shall use life vests or buoyant work vests in compliance
with U.S. Coast Guard requirements in 46 CFR 160.047, 160.052, and
160.053. Life preservers in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard
requirements in 46 CFR 160.055 shall also be within ready access. This
section shall not apply to bridge workers using personal fall arrest
systems or safety nets that comply with this subpart.
(b) Life vests or buoyant work vests shall not be required when
bridge workers are conducting inspections that involve climbing
structures above or below the bridge deck.
(c) Prior to each use, all flotation devices shall be inspected for
defects that reduce their strength or bouyancy by designated individuals
trained by the railroad or railroad contractor. Defective units shall
not be used.
(d) Where life vests are required by paragraph (a) of this section,
ring buoys with at least 90 feet of line shall be provided and readily
available for emergency rescue operations. Distance between ring buoys
shall not exceed 200 feet.
(e) Where life vests are required, at least one lifesaving skiff,
inflatable boat, or equivalent device shall be immediately available. If
it is determined by a competent person that environmental conditions,
including weather, water speed, and terrain, merit additional
protection, the skiff or boat shall be manned.
[57 FR 28127, June 24, 1992, as amended at 67 FR 1908, Jan. 15, 2002]
Sec. 214.109 Scaffolding.
(a) Scaffolding used in connection with railroad bridge maintenance,
inspection, testing, and construction shall be constructed and
maintained in a safe condition and meet the following minimum
requirements:
(1) Each scaffold and scaffold component, except suspension ropes
and guardrail systems, but including footings and anchorage, shall be
capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least four
times the maximum intended load applied or transmitted to that scaffold
or scaffold component.
(2) Guardrail systems shall be capable of withstanding, without
failure, a force of at least 200 pounds applied within two inches of the
top edge, in any outward or downward direction, at any point along the
top edge.
(3) Top edge height of toprails, or equivalent guardrail system
member, shall be 42 inches, plus or minus three inches. Supports shall
be at intervals not to exceed eight feet. Toeboards shall be a minimum
of four inches in height.
(4) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid
panels, and equivalent structural members shall be capable of
withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 150 pounds applied in
any downward or outward direction at any point along the midrail or
other member.
(5) Midrails shall be installed at a height midway between the top
edge of the guardrail system and the walking/working level.
(b) Scaffolds shall not be altered or moved while they are occupied.
This paragraph does not apply to vertical movements of mobile scaffolds
that are designed to move vertically while occupied.
(c) An access ladder or equivalent safe access shall be provided.
[[Page 152]]
(d) All exposed surfaces shall be prepared and cleared to prevent
injury due to laceration, puncture, tripping, or falling hazard.
(e) All scaffold design, construction, and repair shall be completed
by competent individuals trained and knowledgeable about design
criteria, intended use, structural limitations, and procedures for
proper repair.
(f) Manually propelled mobile ladder stands and scaffolds shall
conform to the following:
(1) All manually propelled mobile ladder stands and scaffolds shall
be capable of carrying the design load.
(2) All ladder stands, scaffolds, and scaffold components shall be
capable of supporting, without failure, displacement, or settlement, its
own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load applied or
transmitted to that ladder stand, scaffold, or scaffold component.
(3) All exposed surfaces shall be free from sharp edges or burrs.
(4) The maximum work level height shall not exceed four times the
minimum or least base dimensions of any mobile ladder stand or scaffold.
Where the basic mobile unit does not meet this requirement, suitable
outrigger frames shall be employed to achieve this least base dimension,
or equivalent provisions shall be made to guy or brace the unit against
tipping.
(5) The minimum platform width for any work level shall not be less
than 20 inches for mobile scaffolds (towers). Ladder stands shall have a
minimum step width of 16 inches. The steps of ladder stands shall be
fabricated from slip resistant treads.
(6) Guardrails and midrails shall conform to the requirements listed
in paragraph (a) of this section.
(7) A climbing ladder or stairway shall be provided for proper
access and egress, and shall be affixed or built into the scaffold and
so located that in its use it will not have a tendency to tip the
scaffold.
(8) Wheels or casters shall be capable of supporting, without
failure, at least four times the maximum intended load applied or
transmitted to that component. All scaffold casters shall be provided
with a positive wheel and/or swivel lock to prevent movement. Ladder
stands shall have at least two of the four casters and shall be of the
swivel type.
Sec. 214.111 Personal protective equipment, generally.
With the exception of foot protection, the railroad or railroad
contractor shall provide and the bridge worker shall use appropriate
personal protective equipment described in this subpart in all
operations where there is exposure to hazardous conditions, or where
this subpart indicates the need for using such equipment to reduce the
hazards to railroad bridge workers. The railroad or railroad contractor
shall require the use of foot protection when the potential for foot
injury exists.
[67 FR 1908, Jan. 15, 2002]
Sec. 214.113 Head protection.
(a) Railroad bridge workers working in areas where there is a
possible danger of head injury from impact, or from falling or flying
objects, or from electrical shock and burns, shall be provided and shall
wear protective helmets.
(b) Helmets for the protection of railroad bridge workers against
impact and penetration of falling and flying objects, or from high
voltage electrical shock and burns shall conform to the national
consensus standards for industrial head protection (American National
Standards Institute, Z89.1-1986, Protective Headwear for Industrial
Workers). This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director
of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51. Copies may be obtained from the American National Standards
Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036. Copies may be
inspected at the Federal Railroad Administration, Docket Clerk, 1120
Vermont Avenue NW., Washington, DC, or at the Office of the Federal
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
[67 FR 1908, Jan. 15, 2002]
Sec. 214.115 Foot protection.
(a) The railroad or railroad contractor shall require railroad
bridge workers to wear foot protection equipment when potential foot
injury may
[[Page 153]]
result from impact, falling or flying objects, electrical shock or
burns, or other hazardous condition.
(b) Safety-toe footwear for railroad bridge workers shall conform to
the national consensus standards for safety-toe footwear (American
National Standards Institute, American National Standard Z41-1991,
Standard for Personal Protection-Protective Footwear). This
incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal
Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies
may be obtained from American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd
Street, New York, NY 10036. Copies may be inspected at the Federal
Railroad Administration, Docket Clerk, 1120 Vermont Avenue, Washington,
DC, or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street,
NW., suite 700, Washington DC.
[67 FR 1908, Jan. 15, 2002]
Sec. 214.117 Eye and face protection.
(a) Railroad bridge workers shall be provided and shall wear eye and
face protection equipment when potential eye or face injury may result
from physical, chemical, or radiant agents.
(b) Eye and face protection equipment required by this section shall
conform to the national consensus standards for occupational and
educational eye and face protection (American National Standards
Institute, Z87.1-1989, Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and
Face Protection). This incorporation by reference was approved by the
Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and
1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from the American National
Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036. Copies may
be inspected at the Federal Railroad Administration, Docket Clerk, 1120
Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC, or at the Office of the Federal
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
(c) Face and eye protection equipment required by this section shall
be kept clean and in good repair. Use of equipment with structural or
optical defects is prohibited.
(d) Railroad bridge workers whose vision requires the use of
corrective lenses, when required by this section to wear eye protection,
shall be protected by goggles or spectacles of one of the following
types:
(i) Spectacles whose protective lenses provide optical correction
the, frame of which includes shielding against objects reaching the
wearer's eyes around the lenses;
(ii) Goggles that can be worn over corrective lenses without
disturbing the adjustment of the lenses; or
(iii) Goggles that incorporate corrective lenses mounted behind the
protective lenses.
[67 FR 1908, Jan. 15, 2002; 67 FR 11055, Mar. 12, 2002]
Subpart C--Roadway Worker Protection
Source: 61 FR 65976, Dec. 16, 1996, unless otherwise noted.
Sec. 214.301 Purpose and scope.
(a) The purpose of this subpart is to prevent accidents and
casualties caused by moving railroad cars, locomotives or roadway
maintenance machines striking roadway workers or roadway maintenance
machines.
(b) This subpart prescribes minimum safety standards for roadway
workers. Each railroad and railroad contractor may prescribe additional
or more stringent operating rules, safety rules, and other special
instructions that are consistent with this subpart.
(c) This subpart prescribes safety standards related to the movement
of roadway maintenance machines where such movements affect the safety
of roadway workers. This subpart does not otherwise affect movements of
roadway maintenance machines that are conducted under the authority of a
train dispatcher, a control operator, or the operating rules of the
railroad.
Sec. 214.302 Information collection requirements.
(a) The information collection requirements of this part were
reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget pursuant to the
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13, Sec. 2, 109 Stat.163
(1995) (codified as revised at 44 U.S.C. Secs. 3501-3520), and are
assigned
[[Page 154]]
OMB control number 2130-0539. FRA may not conduct or sponsor and a
respondent is not required to respond to, a collection of information
unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
(b) The information collection requirements are found in the
following sections: Secs. 214.303, 214.307, 214.309, 214.311, 214.313,
214.315, 214.319, 214.321, 214.323, 214.325, 214.327, 214.329, 214.331,
214.335, 214.341.
Sec. 214.303 Railroad on-track safety programs, generally.
(a) Each railroad to which this part applies shall adopt and
implement a program that will afford on-track safety to all roadway
workers whose duties are performed on that railroad. Each such program
shall provide for the levels of protection specified in this subpart.
(b) Each on-track safety program adopted to comply with this part
shall include procedures to be used by each railroad for monitoring
effectiveness of and compliance with the program.
Sec. 214.305 Compliance dates.
Each program adopted by a railroad shall comply not later than the
date specified in the following schedule:
(a) For each Class I railroad (including National Railroad Passenger
Corporation) and each railroad providing commuter service in a
metropolitan or suburban area, March 15, 1997.
(b) For each Class II railroad, April 15, 1997.
(c) For each Class III railroad, switching and terminal railroad,
and any railroad not otherwise classified, May 15, 1997.
(d) For each railroad commencing operations after the pertinent date
specified in this section, the date on which operations commence.
Sec. 214.307 Review and approval of individual on-track safety programs
by FRA.
(a) Each railroad shall notify, in writing, the Associate
Administrator for Safety, Federal Railroad Administration, RRS-15, 400
Seventh Street SW, Washington, DC 20590, not less than one month before
its on-track safety program becomes effective. The notification shall
include the effective date of the program, the address of the office at
which the program documents are available for review and photocopying by
representatives of the Federal Railroad Administrator, and the name,
title, address and telephone number of the primary person to be
contacted with regard to review of the program. This notification
procedure shall also apply to subsequent changes to a railroad's on-
track safety program.
(b) After receipt of the notification from the railroad, the Federal
Railroad Administration will conduct a formal review of the on-track
safety program. The Federal Railroad Administration will notify the
primary railroad contact person of the results of the review, in
writing, whether the on-track safety program or changes to the program
have been approved by the Administrator, and if not approved, the
specific points in which the program or changes are deficient.
(c) A railroad's on-track safety program will take effect by the
established compliance dates in Sec. 214.305, without regard to the date
of review or approval by the Federal Railroad Administration. Changes to
a railroad's program will take effect on dates established by each
railroad without regard to the date of review and approval by the
Federal Railroad Administration.
Sec. 214.309 On-track safety program documents.
Rules and operating procedures governing track occupancy and
protection shall be maintained together in one manual and be readily
available to all roadway workers. Each roadway worker responsible for
the on-track safety of others, and each lone worker, shall be provided
with and shall maintain a copy of the program document.
Sec. 214.311 Responsibility of employers.
(a) Each employer is responsible for the understanding and
compliance by its employees with its rules and the requirements of this
part.
(b) Each employer shall guarantee each employee the absolute right
to challenge in good faith whether the on-track safety procedures to be
applied
[[Page 155]]
at the job location comply with the rules of the operating railroad, and
to remain clear of the track until the challenge is resolved.
(c) Each employer shall have in place a written procedure to achieve
prompt and equitable resolution of challenges made in accordance with
Secs. 214.311(b) and 214.313(d).
Sec. 214.313 Responsibility of individual roadway workers.
(a) Each roadway worker is responsible for following the on-track
safety rules of the railroad upon which the roadway worker is located.
(b) A roadway worker shall not foul a track except when necessary
for the performance of duty.
(c) Each roadway worker is responsible to ascertain that on-track
safety is being provided before fouling a track.
(d) Each roadway worker may refuse any directive to violate an on-
track safety rule, and shall inform the employer in accordance with
Sec. 214.311 whenever the roadway worker makes a good faith
determination that on-track safety provisions to be applied at the job
location do not comply with the rules of the operating railroad.
Sec. 214.315 Supervision and communication.
(a) When an employer assigns duties to a roadway worker that call
for that employee to foul a track, the employer shall provide the
employee with a job briefing that includes information on the means by
which on-track safety is to be provided, and instruction on the on-track
safety procedures to be followed.
(b) A job briefing for on-track safety shall be deemed complete only
after the roadway worker has acknowledged understanding of the on-track
safety procedures and instructions presented.
(c) Every roadway work group whose duties require fouling a track
shall have one roadway worker designated by the employer to provide on-
track safety for all members of the group. The designated person shall
be qualified under the rules of the railroad that conducts train
operations on those tracks to provide the protection necessary for on-
track safety of each individual in the group. The responsible person may
be designated generally, or specifically for a particular work
situation.
(d) Before any member of a roadway work group fouls a track, the
designated person providing on-track safety for the group under
paragraph (c) of this section shall inform each roadway worker of the
on- track safety procedures to be used and followed during the
performance of the work at that time and location. Each roadway worker
shall again be so informed at any time the on-track safety procedures
change during the work period. Such information shall be given to all
roadway workers affected before the change is effective, except in cases
of emergency. Any roadway workers who, because of an emergency, cannot
be notified in advance shall be immediately warned to leave the fouling
space and shall not return to the fouling space until on-track safety is
re-established.
(e) Each lone worker shall communicate at the beginning of each duty
period with a supervisor or another designated employee to receive a job
briefing and to advise of his or her planned itinerary and the
procedures that he or she intends to use for on-track safety. When
communication channels are disabled, the job briefing shall be conducted
as soon as possible after the beginning of the work period when
communications are restored.
Sec. 214.317 On-track safety procedures, generally.
Each employer subject to the provisions of this part shall provide
on-track safety for roadway workers by adopting a program that contains
specific rules for protecting roadway workers that comply with the
provisions of Secs. 214.319 through 214.337 of this part.
Sec. 214.319 Working limits, generally.
Working limits established on controlled track shall conform to the
provisions of Sec. 214.321 Exclusive track occupancy, or Sec. 214.323
Foul time, or Sec. 214. 325 Train coordination. Working limits
established on non-controlled track shall conform to the provision of
Sec. 214.327 Inaccessible track. Working limits established under any
procedure
[[Page 156]]
shall, in addition, conform to the following provisions:
(a) Only a roadway worker who is qualified in accordance with
Sec. 214.353 of this part shall establish or have control over working
limits for the purpose of establishing on-track safety.
(b) Only one roadway worker shall have control over working limits
on any one segment of track.
(c) All affected roadway workers shall be notified before working
limits are released for the operation of trains. Working limits shall
not be released until all affected roadway workers have either left the
track or have been afforded on-track safety through train approach
warning in accordance with Sec. 214.329 of this subpart.
Sec. 214.321 Exclusive track occupancy.
Working limits established on controlled track through the use of
exclusive track occupancy procedures shall comply with the following
requirements:
(a) The track within working limits shall be placed under the
control of one roadway worker by either:
(1) Authority issued to the roadway worker in charge by the train
dispatcher or control operator who controls train movements on that
track,
(2) Flagmen stationed at each entrance to the track within working
limits and instructed by the roadway worker in charge to permit the
movement of trains and equipment into the working limits only as
permitted by the roadway worker in charge, or
(3) The roadway worker in charge causing fixed signals at each
entrance to the working limits to display an aspect indicating ``Stop.''
(b) An authority for exclusive track occupancy given to the roadway
worker in charge of the working limits shall be transmitted on a written
or printed document directly, by relay through a designated employee, in
a data transmission, or by oral communication, to the roadway worker by
the train dispatcher or control operator in charge of the track.
(1) Where authority for exclusive track occupancy is transmitted
orally, the authority shall be written as received by the roadway worker
in charge and repeated to the issuing employee for verification.
(2) The roadway worker in charge of the working limits shall
maintain possession of the written or printed authority for exclusive
track occupancy while the authority for the working limits is in effect.
(3) The train dispatcher or control operator in charge of the track
shall make a written or electronic record of all authorities issued to
establish exclusive track occupancy.
(c) The extent of working limits established through exclusive track
occupancy shall be defined by one of the following physical features
clearly identifiable to a locomotive engineer or other person operating
a train or railroad equipment:
(1) A flagman with instructions and capability to hold all trains
and equipment clear of the working limits;
(2) A fixed signal that displays an aspect indicating ``Stop'';
(3) A station shown in the time-table, and identified by name with a
sign, beyond which train movement is prohibited by train movement
authority or the provisions of a direct train control system.
(4) A clearly identifiable milepost sign beyond which train movement
is prohibited by train movement authority or the provisions of a direct
train control system; or
(5) A clearly identifiable physical location prescribed by the
operating rules of the railroad that trains may not pass without proper
authority.
(d) Movements of trains and roadway maintenance machines within
working limits established through exclusive track occupancy shall be
made only under the direction of the roadway worker having control over
the working limits. Such movements shall be restricted speed unless a
higher speed has been specifically authorized by the roadway worker in
charge of the working limits.
Sec. 214.323 Foul time.
Working limits established on controlled track through the use of
foul time procedures shall comply with the following requirements:
(a) Foul time may be given orally or in writing by the train
dispatcher or
[[Page 157]]
control operator only after that employee has withheld the authority of
all trains to move into or within the working limits during the foul
time period.
(b) Each roadway worker to whom foul time is transmitted orally
shall repeat the track number, track limits and time limits of the foul
time to the issuing employee for verification before the foul time
becomes effective.
(c) The train dispatcher or control operator shall not permit the
movement of trains or other on-track equipment onto the working limits
protected by foul time until the roadway worker who obtained the foul
time has reported clear of the track.
Sec. 214.325 Train coordination.
Working limits established by a roadway worker through the use of
train coordination shall comply with the following requirements:
(a) Working limits established by train coordination shall be within
the segments of track or tracks upon which only one train holds
exclusive authority to move.
(b) The roadway worker who establishes working limits by train
coordination shall communicate with a member of the crew of the train
holding the exclusive authority to move, and shall determine that:
(1) The train is visible to the roadway worker who is establishing
the working limits,
(2) The train is stopped,
(3) Further movements of the train will be made only as permitted by
the roadway worker in charge of the working limits while the working
limits remain in effect, and
(4) The crew of the train will not give up its exclusive authority
to move until the working limits have been released to the train crew by
the roadway worker in charge of the working limits.
Sec. 214.327 Inaccessible track.
(a) Working limits on non-controlled track shall be established by
rendering the track within working limits physically inaccessible to
trains at each possible point of entry by one of the following features:
(1) A flagman with instructions and capability to hold all trains
and equipment clear of the working limits;
(2) A switch or derail aligned to prevent access to the working
limits and secured with an effective securing device by the roadway
worker in charge of the working limits;
(3) A discontinuity in the rail that precludes passage of trains or
engines into the working limits;
(4) Working limits on controlled track that connects directly with
the inaccessible track, established by the roadway worker in charge of
the working limits on the inaccessible track; or
(5) A remotely controlled switch aligned to prevent access to the
working limits and secured by the control operator of such remotely
controlled switch by application of a locking or blocking device to the
control of that switch, when:
(i) The control operator has secured the remotely controlled switch
by applying a locking or blocking device to the control of the switch,
and
(ii) The control operator has notified the roadway worker who has
established the working limits that the requested protection has been
provided, and
(iii) The control operator is not permitted to remove the locking or
blocking device from the control of the switch until receiving
permission to do so from the roadway worker who established the working
limits.
(b) Trains and roadway maintenance machines within working limits
established by means of inaccessible track shall move only under the
direction of the roadway worker in charge of the working limits, and
shall move at restricted speed.
(c) No operable locomotives or other items of on-track equipment,
except those present or moving under the direction of the roadway worker
in charge of the working limits, shall be located within working limits
established by means of inaccessible track.
Sec. 214.329 Train approach warning provided by watchmen/lookouts.
Roadway workers in a roadway work group who foul any track outside
of working limits shall be given warning of approaching trains by one or
more
[[Page 158]]
watchmen/lookouts in accordance with the following provisions:
(a) Train approach warning shall be given in sufficient time to
enable each roadway worker to move to and occupy a previously arranged
place of safety not less than 15 seconds before a train moving at the
maximum speed authorized on that track can pass the location of the
roadway worker.
(b) Watchmen/lookouts assigned to provide train approach warning
shall devote full attention to detecting the approach of trains and
communicating a warning thereof, and shall not be assigned any other
duties while functioning as watchmen/lookouts.
(c) The means used by a watchman/lookout to communicate a train
approach warning shall be distinctive and shall clearly signify to all
recipients of the warning that a train or other on-track equipment is
approaching.
(d) Every roadway worker who depends upon train approach warning for
on-track safety shall maintain a position that will enable him or her to
receive a train approach warning communicated by a watchman/lookout at
any time while on-track safety is provided by train approach warning.
(e) Watchmen/lookouts shall communicate train approach warnings by a
means that does not require a warned employee to be looking in any
particular direction at the time of the warning, and that can be
detected by the warned employee regardless of noise or distraction of
work.
(f) Every roadway worker who is assigned the duties of a watchman/
lookout shall first be trained, qualified and designated in writing by
the employer to do so in accordance with the provisions of Sec. 214.349.
(g) Every watchman/lookout shall be provided by the employer with
the equipment necessary for compliance with the on-track safety duties
which the watchman/lookout will perform.
Sec. 214.331 Definite train location.
A roadway worker may establish on-track safety by using definite
train location only where permitted by and in accordance with the
following provisions:
(a) A Class I railroad or a commuter railroad may only use definite
train location to establish on-track safety at points where such
procedures were in use on January 15, 1997.
(b) Each Class I or commuter railroad shall include in its on-track
safety program for approval by FRA in accordance with Sec. 214.307 of
this part a schedule for phase-out of the use of definite train location
to establish on-track safety.
(c) A railroad other than a Class I or commuter railroad may use
definite train location to establish on-track safety on subdivisions
only where:
(1) Such procedures were in use on January 15, 1997, or
(2) The number of trains operated on the subdivision does not
exceed:
(i) Three during any nine-hour period in which roadway workers are
on duty, and
(ii) Four during any twelve-hour period in which roadway workers are
on duty.
(d) Definite train location shall only be used to establish on-track
safety according to the following provisions:
(1) Definite train location information shall be issued only by the
one train dispatcher who is designated to authorize train movements over
the track for which the information is provided.
(2) A definite train location list shall indicate all trains to be
operated on the track for which the list is provided, during the time
for which the list is effective.
(3) Trains not shown on the definite train location list shall not
be operated on the track for which the list is provided, during the time
for which the list is effective, until each roadway worker to whom the
list has been issued has been notified of the train movement, has
acknowledged the notification to the train dispatcher, and has canceled
the list. A list thus canceled shall then be invalid for on-track
safety.
(4) Definite train location shall not be used to establish on-track
safety within the limits of a manual interlocking, or on track over
which train movements are governed by a Traffic Control System or by a
Manual Block System.
(5) Roadway workers using definite train location for on-track
safety shall
[[Page 159]]
not foul a track within ten minutes before the earliest time that a
train is due to depart the last station at which time is shown in
approach to the roadway worker's location nor until that train has
passed the location of the roadway worker.
(6) A railroad shall not permit a train to depart a location
designated in a definite train location list before the time shown
therein.
(7) Each roadway worker who uses definite train location to
establish on-track safety must be qualified on the relevant physical
characteristics of the territory for which the train location
information is provided.
Sec. 214.333 Informational line-ups of trains.
(a) A railroad is permitted to include informational line-ups of
trains in its on-track safety program for use only on subdivisions of
that railroad upon which such procedure was in effect on March 14, 1996.
(b) Each procedure for the use of informational line-ups of trains
found in an on-track safety program shall include all provisions
necessary to protect roadway workers using the procedure against being
struck by trains or other on-track equipment.
(c) Each on-track safety program that provides for the use of
informational line-ups shall include a schedule for discontinuance of
the procedure by a definite date.
Sec. 214.335 On-track safety procedures for roadway work groups.
(a) No employer subject to the provisions of this part shall require
or permit a roadway worker who is a member of a roadway work group to
foul a track unless on-track safety is provided by either working
limits, train approach warning, or definite train location in accordance
with the applicable provisions of Secs. 214.319, 214.321, 213.323,
214.325, 214.327, 214.329 and 214.331 of this part.
(b) No roadway worker who is a member of a roadway work group shall
foul a track without having been informed by the roadway worker
responsible for the on-track safety of the roadway work group that on-
track safety is provided.
(c) Roadway work groups engaged in large-scale maintenance or
construction shall be provided with train approach warning in accordance
with Sec. 214.327 for movements on adjacent tracks that are not included
within working limits.
Sec. 214.337 On-track safety procedures for lone workers.
(a) A lone worker who fouls a track while performing routine
inspection or minor correction may use individual train detection to
establish on-track safety only where permitted by this section and the
on-track safety program of the railroad.
(b) A lone worker retains an absolute right to use on-track safety
procedures other than individual train detection if he or she deems it
necessary, and to occupy a place of safety until such other form of on-
track safety can be established.
(c) Individual train detection may be used to establish on-track
safety only:
(1) By a lone worker who has been trained, qualified, and designated
to do so by the employer in accordance with Sec. 214.347 of this
subpart;
(2) While performing routine inspection and minor correction work;
(3) On track outside the limits of a manual interlocking, a
controlled point, or a remotely controlled hump yard facility;
(4) Where the lone worker is able to visually detect the approach of
a train moving at the maximum speed authorized on that track, and move
to a previously determined place of safety, not less than 15 seconds
before the train would arrive at the location of the lone worker;
(5) Where no power-operated tools or roadway maintenance machines
are in use within the hearing of the lone worker; and
(6) Where the ability of the lone worker to hear and see approaching
trains and other on-track equipment is not impaired by background noise,
lights, precipitation, fog, passing trains, or any other physical
conditions.
(d) The place of safety to be occupied by a lone worker upon the
approach of a train may not be on a track, unless
[[Page 160]]
working limits are established on that track.
(e) A lone worker using individual train detection for on-track
safety while fouling a track may not occupy a position or engage in any
activity that would interfere with that worker's ability to maintain a
vigilant lookout for, and detect the approach of, a train moving in
either direction as prescribed in this section.
(f) A lone worker who uses individual train detection to establish
on-track safety shall first complete a written Statement of On-track
Safety. The Statement shall designate the limits of the track for which
it is prepared and the date and time for which it is valid. The
statement shall show the maximum authorized speed of trains within the
limits for which it is prepared, and the sight distance that provides
the required warning of approaching trains. The lone worker using
individual train detection to establish on-track safety shall produce
the Statement of On-track Safety when requested by a representative of
the Federal Railroad Administrator.
Sec. 214.339 Audible warning from trains.
Each railroad shall require that the locomotive whistle be sounded,
and the locomotive bell be rung, by trains approaching roadway workers
on or about the track. Such audible warning shall not substitute for on-
track safety procedures prescribed in this part.
Sec. 214.341 Roadway maintenance machines.
(a) Each employer shall include in its on-track safety program
specific provisions for the safety of roadway workers who operate or
work near roadway maintenance machines. Those provisions shall address:
(1) Training and qualification of operators of roadway maintenance
machines.
(2) Establishment and issuance of safety procedures both for general
application and for specific types of machines.
(3) Communication between machine operators and roadway workers
assigned to work near or on roadway maintenance machines.
(4) Spacing between machines to prevent collisions.
(5) Space between machines and roadway workers to prevent personal
injury.
(6) Maximum working and travel speeds for machines dependent upon
weather, visibility, and stopping capabilities.
(b) Instructions for the safe operation of each roadway machine
shall be provided and maintained with each machine large enough to carry
the instruction document.
(1) No roadway worker shall operate a roadway maintenance machine
without having been trained in accordance with Sec. 214.355.
(2) No roadway worker shall operate a roadway maintenance machine
without having complete knowledge of the safety instructions applicable
to that machine.
(3) No employer shall assign roadway workers to work near roadway
machines unless the roadway worker has been informed of the safety
procedures applicable to persons working near the roadway machines and
has acknowledged full understanding.
(c) Components of roadway maintenance machines shall be kept clear
of trains passing on adjacent tracks. Where operating conditions permit
roadway maintenance machines to be less than four feet from the rail of
an adjacent track, the on-track safety program of the railroad shall
include the procedural instructions necessary to provide adequate
clearance between the machine and passing trains.
Sec. 214.343 Training and qualification, general.
(a) No employer shall assign an employee to perform the duties of a
roadway worker, and no employee shall accept such assignment, unless
that employee has received training in the on-track safety procedures
associated with the assignment to be performed, and that employee has
demonstrated the ability to fulfill the responsibilities for on-track
safety that are required of an individual roadway worker performing that
assignment.
(b) Each employer shall provide to all roadway workers in its employ
initial
[[Page 161]]
or recurrent training once every calendar year on the on-track safety
rules and procedures that they are required to follow.
(c) Railroad employees other than roadway workers, who are
associated with on-track safety procedures, and whose primary duties are
concerned with the movement and protection of trains, shall be trained
to perform their functions related to on-track safety through the
training and qualification procedures prescribed by the operating
railroad for the primary position of the employee, including maintenance
of records and frequency of training.
(d) Each employer of roadway workers shall maintain written or
electronic records of each roadway worker qualification in effect. Each
record shall include the name of the employee, the type of qualification
made, and the most recent date of qualification. These records shall be
kept available for inspection and photocopying by the Federal Railroad
Administrator during regular business hours.
Sec. 214.345 Training for all roadway workers.
The training of all roadway workers shall include, as a minimum, the
following:
(a) Recognition of railroad tracks and understanding of the space
around them within which on-track safety is required.
(b) The functions and responsibilities of various persons involved
with on-track safety procedures.
(c) Proper compliance with on-track safety instructions given by
persons performing or responsible for on-track safety functions.
(d) Signals given by watchmen/lookouts, and the proper procedures
upon receiving a train approach warning from a lookout.
(e) The hazards associated with working on or near railroad tracks,
including review of on-track safety rules and procedures.
Sec. 214.347 Training and qualification for lone workers.
Each lone worker shall be trained and qualified by the employer to
establish on-track safety in accordance with the requirements of this
section, and must be authorized to do so by the railroad that conducts
train operations on those tracks.
(a) The training and qualification for lone workers shall include,
as a minimum, consideration of the following factors:
(1) Detection of approaching trains and prompt movement to a place
of safety upon their approach.
(2) Determination of the distance along the track at which trains
must be visible in order to provide the prescribed warning time.
(3) Rules and procedures prescribed by the railroad for individual
train detection, establishment of working limits, and definite train
location.
(4) On-track safety procedures to be used in the territory on which
the employee is to be qualified and permitted to work alone.
(b) Initial and periodic qualification of a lone worker shall be
evidenced by demonstrated proficiency.
Sec. 214.349 Training and qualification of watchmen/lookouts.
(a) The training and qualification for roadway workers assigned the
duties of watchmen/lookouts shall include, as a minimum, consideration
of the following factors:
(1) Detection and recognition of approaching trains.
(2) Effective warning of roadway workers of the approach of trains.
(3) Determination of the distance along the track at which trains
must be visible in order to provide the prescribed warning time.
(4) Rules and procedures of the railroad to be used for train
approach warning.
(b) Initial and periodic qualification of a watchman/lookout shall
be evidenced by demonstrated proficiency.
Sec. 214.351 Training and qualification of flagmen.
(a) The training and qualification for roadway workers assigned the
duties of flagmen shall include, as a minimum, the content and
application of the operating rules of the railroad pertaining to giving
proper stop signals to trains and holding trains clear of working
limits.
[[Page 162]]
(b) Initial and periodic qualification of a flagman shall be
evidenced by demonstrated proficiency.
Sec. 214.353 Training and qualification of roadway workers who provide
on-track safety for roadway work groups.
(a) The training and qualification of roadway workers who provide
for the on-track safety of groups of roadway workers through
establishment of working limits or the assignment and supervision of
watchmen/lookouts or flagmen shall include, as a minimum:
(1) All the on-track safety training and qualification required of
the roadway workers to be supervised and protected.
(2) The content and application of the operating rules of the
railroad pertaining to the establishment of working limits.
(3) The content and application of the rules of the railroad
pertaining to the establishment or train approach warning.
(4) The relevant physical characteristics of the territory of the
railroad upon which the roadway worker is qualified.
(b) Initial and periodic qualification of a roadway worker to
provide on track safety for groups shall be evidenced by a recorded
examination.
Sec. 214.355 Training and qualification in on-track safety for
operators of roadway maintenance machines.
(a) The training and qualification of roadway workers who operate
roadway maintenance machines shall include, as a minimum:
(1) Procedures to prevent a person from being struck by the machine
when the machine is in motion or operation.
(2) Procedures to prevent any part of the machine from being struck
by a train or other equipment on another track.
(3) Procedures to provide for stopping the machine short of other
machines or obstructions on the track.
(4) Methods to determine safe operating procedures for each machine
that the operator is expected to operate.
(b) Initial and periodic qualification of a roadway worker to
operate roadway maintenance machines shall be evidenced by demonstrated
proficiency.
Subpart D--On-Track Roadway Maintenance Machines and Hi-Rail Vehicles
Source: 68 FR 44407, July 28, 2003, unless otherwise noted.
Sec. 214.501 Purpose and scope.
(a) The purpose of this subpart is to prevent accidents and
casualties caused by the lawful operation of on-track roadway
maintenance machines and hi-rail vehicles.
(b) This subpart prescribes minimum safety standards for on-track
roadway maintenance machines and hi-rail vehicles. An employer may
prescribe additional or more stringent standards that are consistent
with this subpart.
(c) Any working condition that involves the protection of employees
engaged in roadway maintenance duties covered by this subpart but is not
within the subject matter addressed by this subpart, including employee
exposure to noise, shall be governed by the regulations of the U.S.
Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Sec. 214.503 Good-faith challenges; procedures for notification and
resolution.
(a) An employee operating an on-track roadway maintenance machine or
hi-rail vehicle shall inform the employer whenever the employee makes a
good-faith determination that the machine or vehicle does not comply
with FRA regulations or has a condition that inhibits its safe
operation.
(b) Any employee charged with operating an on-track roadway
maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle covered by this subpart may
refuse to operate the machine or vehicle if the employee makes a good-
faith determination that it does not comply with the requirements of
this subpart or has a condition that inhibits its safe operation. The
employer shall not require the employee to operate the machine or
vehicle until the challenge resulting from the good-faith determination
is resolved.
[[Page 163]]
(c) Each employer shall have in place and follow written procedures
to assure prompt and equitable resolution of challenges resulting from
good-faith determinations made in accordance with this section. The
procedures shall include specific steps to be taken by the employer to
investigate each good-faith challenge, as well as procedures to follow
once the employer finds a challenged machine or vehicle does not comply
with this subpart or is otherwise unsafe to operate. The procedures
shall also include the title and location of the employer's designated
official.
Sec. 214.505 Required environmental control and protection systems for
new on-track roadway maintenance machines with enclosed cabs.
(a) The following new on-track roadway maintenance machines shall be
equipped with enclosed cabs with operative heating systems, operative
air conditioning systems, and operative positive pressurized ventilation
systems:
(1) Ballast regulators;
(2) Tampers;
(3) Mechanical brooms;
(4) Rotary scarifiers;
(5) Undercutters; and
(6) Functional equivalents of any of the machines identified in
paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(5) of this section.
(b) New on-track roadway maintenance machines, and existing on-track
roadway maintenance machines specifically designated by the employer, of
the types identified in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(5) of this
section, or functionally equivalent thereto, shall be capable of
protecting employees in the cabs of the machines from exposure to air
contaminants, in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1000.
(c) An employer shall maintain a list of new and designated existing
on-track roadway maintenance machines of the types identified in
paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(5) of this section, or functionally
equivalent thereto. The list shall be kept current and made available to
the Federal Railroad Administration and other Federal and State agencies
upon request.
(d) An existing roadway maintenance machine of the type identified
in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(5) of this section, or functionally
equivalent thereto, becomes ``designated'' when the employer adds the
machine to the list required in paragraph (c) of this section. The
designation is irrevocable, and the designated existing roadway
maintenance machine remains subject to paragraph (b) of this section
until it is retired or sold.
(e) If the ventilation system on a new on-track roadway maintenance
machine or a designated existing on-track roadway maintenance machine of
the type identified in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(5) of this section,
or functionally equivalent thereto, becomes incapable of protecting an
employee in the cab of the machine from exposure to air contaminants in
accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1000, personal respiratory protective
equipment shall be provided for each such employee until the machine is
repaired in accordance with Sec. 214.531.
(f) Personal respiratory protective equipment provided under
paragraph (e) of this section shall comply with 29 CFR 1910.134.
(g) New on-track roadway maintenance machines with enclosed cabs,
other than the types identified in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(5) of
this section or functionally equivalent thereto, shall be equipped with
operative heating and ventilation systems.
(h) When new on-track roadway maintenance machines require operation
from non-enclosed stations outside of the main cab, the non-enclosed
stations shall be equipped, where feasible from an engineering
standpoint, with a permanent or temporary roof, canopy, or umbrella
designed to provide cover from normal rainfall and midday sun.
Sec. 214.507 Required safety equipment for new on-track roadway
maintenance machines.
(a) Each new on-track roadway maintenance machine shall be equipped
with:
(1) A seat for each operator, except as provided in paragraph (b) of
this section;
(2) A safe and secure position with handholds, handrails, or a
secure seat for each roadway worker transported on the machine. Each
position shall be
[[Page 164]]
protected from moving parts of the machine;
(3) A positive method of securement for turntables, on machines
equipped with a turntable, through engagement of pins and hooks that
block the descent of turntable devices below the rail head when not in
use;
(4) A windshield with safety glass, or other material with similar
properties, and power windshield wipers or suitable alternatives that
provide the operator an equivalent level of vision if windshield wipers
are incompatible with the windshield material;
(5) A machine braking system capable of effectively controlling the
movement of the machine under normal operating conditions;
(6) A first-aid kit that is readily accessible and complies with 29
CFR 1926.50(d)(2); and
(7) An operative and properly charged fire extinguisher of 5 BC
rating or higher which is securely mounted and readily accessible to the
operator from the operator's work station.
(b) Each new on-track roadway maintenance machine designed to be
operated and transported by the operator in a standing position shall be
equipped with handholds and handrails to provide the operator with a
safe and secure position.
(c) Each new on-track roadway maintenance machine that weighs more
than 32,500 pounds light weight and is operated in excess of 20 mph
shall be equipped with a speed indicator that is accurate within
[plusmn]5 mph of the actual speed at speeds of 10 mph and above.
(d) Each new on-track roadway maintenance machine shall have its as-
built light weight displayed in a conspicuous location on the machine.
Sec. 214.509 Required visual illumination and reflective devices for
new on-track roadway maintenance machines.
Each new on-track roadway maintenance machine shall be equipped with
the following visual illumination and reflective devices:
(a) An illumination device, such as a headlight, capable of
illuminating obstructions on the track ahead in the direction of travel
for a distance of 300 feet under normal weather and atmospheric
conditions;
(b) Work lights, if the machine is operated during the period
between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise or
in dark areas such as tunnels, unless equivalent lighting is otherwise
provided;
(c) An operative 360-degree intermittent warning light or beacon
mounted on the roof of the machine. New roadway maintenance machines
that are not equipped with fixed roofs and have a light weight less than
17,500 pounds are exempt from this requirement;
(d) A brake light activated by the application of the machine
braking system, and designed to be visible for a distance of 300 feet
under normal weather and atmospheric conditions; and
(e) Rearward viewing devices, such as rearview mirrors.
Sec. 214.511 Required audible warning devices for new on-track roadway
maintenance machines.
Each new on-track roadway maintenance machine shall be equipped
with:
(a) A horn or other audible warning device that produces a sound
loud enough to be heard by roadway workers and other machine operators
within the immediate work area. The triggering mechanism for the device
shall be clearly identifiable and within easy reach of the machine
operator; and
(b) An automatic change-of-direction alarm which provides an audible
signal that is at least three seconds long and is distinguishable from
the surrounding noise. Change of direction alarms may be interrupted by
the machine operator when operating the machine in the work mode if the
function of the machine would result in a constant, or almost constant,
sounding of the device. In any action brought by FRA to enforce the
change-of-direction alarm requirement, the employer shall have the
burden of proving that use of the change-of-direction alarm in a
particular work function would cause a constant, or almost constant,
sounding of the device.
[[Page 165]]
Sec. 214.513 Retrofitting of existing on-track roadway maintenance
machines; general.
(a) Each existing on-track roadway maintenance machine shall have a
safe and secure position for each roadway worker transported on the
machine and protection from moving parts of the machine.
(b) By March 28, 2005, each existing on-track roadway maintenance
machine shall be equipped with a permanent or portable horn or other
audible warning device that produces a sound loud enough to be heard by
roadway workers and other machine operators within the immediate work
area. The triggering mechanism for the device shall be clearly
identifiable and within easy reach of the machine operator.
(c) By March 28, 2005, each existing on-track roadway maintenance
machine shall be equipped with a permanent illumination device or a
portable light that is securely placed and not hand-held. The
illumination device or portable light shall be capable of illuminating
obstructions on the track ahead for a distance of 300 feet under normal
weather and atmospheric conditions when the machine is operated during
the period between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before
sunrise or in dark areas such as tunnels.
Sec. 214.515 Overhead covers for existing on-track roadway maintenance
machines.
(a) For those existing on-track roadway maintenance machines either
currently or previously equipped with overhead covers for the operator's
position, defective covers shall be repaired, and missing covers shall
be reinstalled, by March 28, 2005 and thereafter maintained in
accordance with the provisions of Sec. 214.531.
(b) For those existing on-track roadway maintenance machines that
are not already equipped with overhead covers for the operator's
position, the employer shall evaluate the feasibility of providing an
overhead cover on such a machine if requested in writing by the operator
assigned to operate the machine or by the operator's designated
representative. The employer shall provide the operator a written
response to each request within 60 days. When the employer finds the
addition of an overhead cover is not feasible, the response shall
include an explanation of the reasoning used by the employer to reach
that conclusion.
(c) For purposes of this section, overhead covers shall provide the
operator's position with cover from normal rainfall and midday sun.
Sec. 214.517 Retrofitting of existing on-track roadway maintenance
machines manufactured on or after January 1, 1991.
In addition to meeting the requirements of Sec. 214.513, after March
28, 2005 each existing on-track roadway maintenance machine manufactured
on or after January 1, 1991, shall have the following:
(a) A change-of-direction alarm or rearview mirror or other rearward
viewing device, if either device is feasible, given the machine's
design, and if either device adds operational safety value, given the
machine's function. In any action brought by FRA to enforce this
requirement, the employer shall have the burden of proving that neither
device is feasible or adds operational safety value, or both, given the
machine's design or work function.
(b) An operative heater, when the machine is operated at an ambient
temperature less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit and is equipped with, or has
been equipped with, a heater.
(c) The light weight of the machine stenciled or otherwise clearly
displayed on the machine, if the light weight is known.
(d) Reflective material, or a reflective device, or operable brake
lights.
(e) Safety glass when its glass is normally replaced, except that
replacement glass that is specifically intended for on-track roadway
maintenance machines and is in the employer's inventory as of September
26, 2003 may be utilized until exhausted.
(f) A turntable restraint device, on machines equipped with a
turntable, to prevent undesired lowering, or a warning light indicating
that the turntable is not in the normal travel position.
[[Page 166]]
(g) Handholds, handrails, or a secure seat or bench position for
each roadway worker transported on the machine.
Sec. 214.518 Safe and secure positions for riders.
A roadway worker, other than the machine operator(s), is prohibited
from riding on any on-track roadway maintenance machine unless a safe
and secure position for each roadway worker on the machine is clearly
identified by stenciling, marking, or other written notice.
Sec. 214.519 Floors, decks, stairs, and ladders of on-track roadway
maintenance machines.
Floors, decks, stairs, and ladders of on-track roadway maintenance
machines shall be of appropriate design and maintained to provide secure
access and footing, and shall be free of oil, grease, or any obstruction
which creates a slipping, falling, or fire hazard.
Sec. 214.521 Flagging equipment for on-track roadway maintenance
machines and hi-rail vehicles.
When being operated over trackage subject to a railroad operating
rule requiring flagging, each on-track roadway maintenance machine and
each hi-rail vehicle shall have on board a flagging kit that complies
with the operating rules of the railroad, if the equipment is not part
of a roadway work group or is the lead or trailing piece of equipment in
a roadway work group operating under the same occupancy authority.
Sec. 214.523 Hi-rail vehicles.
(a) The hi-rail gear of all hi-rail vehicles shall be inspected for
safety at least annually and with no more than 14 months between
inspections. Tram, wheel wear, and gage shall be measured and, if
necessary, adjusted to allow the vehicle to be safely operated.
(b) Each employer shall keep records pertaining to compliance with
paragraph (a) of this section. Records may be kept on forms provided by
the employer or by electronic means. The employer shall retain the
record of each inspection until the next required inspection is
performed. The records shall be made available for inspection and
copying during normal business hours by representatives of FRA and
States participating under part 212 of this chapter. The records may be
kept on the hi-rail vehicle or at a location designated by the employer.
(c) A new hi-rail vehicle shall be equipped with:
(1) An automatic change-of-direction alarm or backup alarm that
provides an audible signal at least three seconds long and
distinguishable from the surrounding noise; and
(2) An operable 360-degree intermittent warning light or beacon
mounted on the outside of the vehicle.
(d)(1) The operator of a hi-rail vehicle shall check the vehicle for
compliance with this subpart, prior to using the vehicle at the start of
the operator's work shift.
(2) A non-complying condition that cannot be repaired immediately
shall be tagged and dated in a manner prescribed by the employer and
reported to the designated official.
(3) Non-complying automatic change-of-direction alarms, backup
alarms, and 360-degree intermittent warning lights or beacons shall be
repaired or replaced as soon as practicable within seven calendar days.
Sec. 214.525 Towing with on-track roadway maintenance machines or hi-
rail vehicles.
(a) When used to tow pushcars or other maintenance-of-way equipment,
each on-track roadway maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle shall be
equipped with a towing bar or other coupling device that provides a safe
and secure attachment.
(b) An on-track roadway maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle shall
not be used to tow pushcars or other maintenance-of-way equipment if the
towing would cause the machine or hi-rail vehicle to exceed the
capabilities of its braking system. In determining the limit of the
braking system, the employer must consider the track grade (slope), as
well as the number and weight of pushcars or other equipment to be
towed.
[[Page 167]]
Sec. 214.527 On-track roadway maintenance machines; inspection for
compliance and schedule for repairs.
(a) The operator of an on-track roadway maintenance machine shall
check the machine components for compliance with this subpart, prior to
using the machine at the start of the operator's work shift.
(b) Any non-complying condition that cannot be repaired immediately
shall be tagged and dated in a manner prescribed by the employer and
reported to the designated official.
(c) The operation of an on-track roadway maintenance machine with a
non-complying condition shall be governed by the following requirements:
(1) An on-track roadway maintenance machine with headlights or work
lights that are not in compliance may be operated for a period not
exceeding 7 calendar days and only during the period between one-half
hour before sunrise and one-half hour after sunset;
(2) A portable horn may be substituted for a non-complying or
missing horn for a period not exceeding seven calendar days;
(3) A fire extinguisher readily available for use may temporarily
replace a missing, defective or discharged fire extinguisher on a new
on-track roadway maintenance machine for a period not exceeding 7
calendar days, pending the permanent replacement or repair of the
missing, defective or used fire extinguisher;
(4) Non-complying automatic change-of-direction alarms, backup
alarms, and 360-degree intermittent warning lights or beacons shall be
repaired or replaced as soon as practicable within 7 calendar days; and
(5) A structurally defective or missing operator's seat shall be
replaced or repaired within 24 hours or by the start of the machine's
next tour of duty, whichever is later. The machine may be operated for
the remainder of the operator's tour of duty if the defective or missing
operator's seat does not prevent its safe operation.
Sec. 214.529 In-service failure of primary braking system.
(a) In the event of a total in-service failure of its primary
braking system, an on-track roadway maintenance machine may be operated
for the remainder of its tour of duty with the use of a secondary
braking system or by coupling to another machine, if such operations may
be done safely.
(b) If the total in-service failure of an on-track roadway
maintenance machine's primary braking system occurs where other
equipment is not available for coupling, the machine may, if it is safe
to do so, travel to a clearance or repair point where it shall be placed
out of service until repaired.
Sec. 214.531 Schedule of repairs; general.
Except as provided in Secs. 214.527(c)(5), 214.529, and 214.533, an
on-track roadway maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle that does not
meet all the requirements of this subpart shall be brought into
compliance as soon as practicable within seven calendar days. If repairs
are not made within seven calendar days, the on-track roadway
maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle shall be placed out of on-track
service.
Sec. 214.533 Schedule of repairs subject to availability of parts.
(a) The employer shall order a part necessary to repair a non-
complying condition on an on-track roadway maintenance machine or a hi-
rail vehicle by the end of the next business day following the report of
the defect.
(b) When the employer cannot repair a non-complying condition as
required by Sec. 214.531 because of the temporary unavailability of a
necessary part, the employer shall repair the on-track roadway
maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle within seven calendar days after
receiving the necessary part. The employer may continue to use the on-
track roadway maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle with a non-
complying condition until receiving the necessary part(s) for repair,
subject to the requirements of Sec. 214.503. However, if a non-complying
condition is not repaired within 30 days following the report of the
defect, the employer shall remove the on-track roadway maintenance
machine or hi-rail vehicle from on-track service until it is brought
into compliance with this subpart.
(c) If the employer fails to order a part necessary to repair the
reported
[[Page 168]]
non-complying condition, or if it fails to install an available part
within the required seven calendar days, the on-track roadway
maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle shall be removed from on-track
service until brought into compliance with this subpart.
(d) Each employer shall maintain records pertaining to compliance
with this section. Records may be kept on forms provided by the employer
or by electronic means. The employer shall retain each record for at
least one year, and the records shall be made available for inspection
and copying during normal business hours by representatives of FRA and
States participating under part 212 of this chapter. The records may be
kept on the on-track roadway maintenance machine or hi-rail vehicle or
at a location designated by the employer.
Appendix A to Part 214--Schedule of Civil Penalties \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Section Violation Willful
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subpart B--Bridge Worker Safety Standards
214.103 Fall protection:
(i) Failure to provide fall protection...... $5,000 $10,000
(ii) Failure to use fall protection......... ........... 2,500
214.105 Standards and practices:
(a) General:
(1) Fall protection used for other 2,500 5,000
purposes.................................
(2) Failure to remove from service........ 2,500 5,000
(3) Failure to protect from deterioration. 2,500 5,000
(4) Failure to inspect and remove......... 5,000 10,000
(5) Failure to train...................... 5,000 10,000
(6) Failure to provide for prompt rescue.. 5,000 10,000
(7) Failure to prevent damage............. 2,500 5,000
(8) Failure to use proper connectors...... 2,500 5,000
(9) Failure to use proper anchorages...... 2,500 5,000
(b) Fall arrest system:
(1)-(17) Failure to provide conforming 2,500 5,000
equipment................................
(c) Safety net systems:
(1) Failure to install close to workplace. 2,500 5,000
(2) Failure to provide fall arrest if over 5,000 10,000
30 feet..................................
(3) Failure to provide for unobstructed 5,000 10,000
fall.....................................
(4) Failure to test....................... 2,500 5,000
(5) Failure to use proper equipment....... 2,500 5,000
(6) Failure to prevent contact with 5,000 10,000
surface below............................
(7) Failure to properly install........... 5,000 10,000
(8) Failure to remove defective nets...... 5,000 10,000
(9) Failure to inspect.................... 5,000 10,000
(10) Failure to remove objects............ 1,000 2,500
(11)-(13) Failure to use conforming 2,500 10,000
equipment................................
214.107 Working over water:
(a)(i) Failure to provide life vest......... 5,000 10,000
(ii) Failure to use life vest............. ........... 1,500
(c) Failure to inspect...................... 2,500 5,000
(e)(i) Failure to provide ring bouys........ 5,000 10,000
(ii) Failure to use ring bouys............ ........... 1,500
(f)(i) Failure to provide skiff............. 1,000 2,500
(ii) Failure to use skiff................. ........... 1,500
214.109 Scaffolding:
(a)-(f) Failure to provide conforming 2,500 5,000
equipment..................................
214.113 Head protection:
(a)(i) Failure to provide................... 2,500 5,000
(ii) Failure to use....................... ........... 1,500
(b) or (c) Failure to provide conforming 2,500 5,000
equipment..................................
214.115 Foot protection:
(a)(i) Failure to require use of............ 2,500 5,000
(ii) Failure to use....................... ........... 1,500
214.117 Eye and face protection:
(a)(i) Failure to provide................... 2,500 5,000
(ii) Failure to use....................... ........... 1,500
(b) Failure to use conforming equipment..... 2,500 5,000
(c) Use of defective equipment.............. 2,500 5,000
(d) Failure to provide for corrective lenses 2,500 5,000
Subpart C-- Roadway Worker Protection Rule
214.303 Railroad on-track safety programs,
generally:
(a) Failure of a railroad to implement an On- 10,000 20,000
track Safety Program.......................
[[Page 169]]
(b) On-track Safety Program of a railroad 5,000 10,000
includes no internal monitoring procedure..
214.305 Compliance Dates:
Failure of a railroad to comply by the 5,000 10,000
specified dates............................
214.307 Review and approval of individual on-
track safety programs by FRA:
(a)(i) Failure to notify FRA of adoption of 1,000 5,000
On-track Safety Program....................
(ii) Failure to designate primary person 1,000 2,000
to contact for program review............
214.309 On-track safety program documents:
(1) On-track Safety Manual not provided to 2,000 5,000
prescribed employees.......................
(2) On-track Safety Program documents issued 2,000 5,000
in fragments...............................
214.311 Responsibility of employers:
(b) Roadway worker required by employer to 5,000 10,000
foul a track during an unresolved challenge
(c) Roadway workers not provided with 5,000 10,000
written procedure to resolve challenges of
on-track safety procedures.................
214.313 Responsibility of individual roadway
workers:
(b) Roadway worker fouling a track when not ........... 1,000
necessary in the performance of duty.......
(c) Roadway worker fouling a track without ........... 1,500
ascertaining that provision is made for on-
track safety...............................
(d) Roadway worker failing to notify ........... 3,000
employer of determination of improper on-
track safety provisions....................
214.315 Supervision and communication:
(a) Failure of employer to provide job 2,000 10,000
briefing...................................
(b) Incomplete job briefing................. 2,000 5,000
(c)(i) Failure to designate roadway worker 2,000 5,000
in charge of roadway work group............
(ii) Designation of more than one roadway 1,000 2,000
worker in charge of one roadway work
group....................................
(iii) Designation of non-qualified roadway 3,000 6,000
worker in charge of roadway work group...
(d)(i) Failure to notify roadway workers of 3,000 6,000
on-track safety procedures in effect.......
(ii) Incorrect information provided to 3,000 6,000
roadway workers regarding on-track safety
procedures in effect.....................
(iii) Failure to notify roadway workers of 3,000 6,000
change in on-track safety procedures.....
(e)(i) Failure of lone worker to communicate ........... 1,500
with designated employee for daily job
briefing...................................
(ii) Failure of employer to provide means 3,000 6,000
for lone worker to receive daily job
briefing.................................
214.317 On-track safety procedures, generally:
On-track safety rules conflict with this 5,000 10,000
part.....................................
214.319 Working limits, generally:
(a) Non-qualified roadway worker in charge 5,000 10,000
of working limits..........................
(b) More than one roadway worker in charge 2,000 5,000
of working limits on the same track segment
(c)(1) Working limits released without 5,000 10,000
notifying all affected roadway workers.....
(2) Working limits released before all 5,000 10,000
affected roadway workers are otherwise
protected................................
214.321 Exclusive track occupancy:
(b) Improper transmission of authority for 2,000 5,000
exclusive track occupancy..................
(b)(1) Failure to repeat authority for ........... 1,500
exclusive track occupancy to issuing
employee...................................
(2) Failure to retain possession of ........... 1,000
written authority for exclusive track
occupancy................................
(3) Failure to record authority for ........... 2,000
exclusive track occupancy when issued....
(c) Limits of exclusive track occupancy not 2,000 4,000
identified by proper physical features.....
(d)(1) Movement authorized into limits of 5,000 10,000
exclusive track occupancy without authority
of roadway worker in charge................
(2) Movement authorized within limits of 5,000 10,000
exclusive track occupancy without
authority of roadway worker in charge....
(3) Movement within limits of exclusive 5,000 10,000
track occupancy exceeding restricted
speed without authority of roadway worker
in charge................................
214.323 Foul time:
(a) Foul time authority overlapping movement 5,000 10,000
authority of train or equipment............
(b) Failure to repeat foul time authority to ........... 1,500
issuing employee...........................
214.325 Train coordination:
(a) Train coordination limits established 1,500 4,000
where more than one train is authorized to
operate....................................
(b)(1) Train coordination established with ........... 1,500
train not visible to roadway worker at the
time.......................................
(2) Train coordination established with ........... 1,500
moving train.............................
(3) Coordinated train moving without 2,000 5,000
authority of roadway worker in charge....
(4) Coordinated train releasing movement 3,000 6,000
authority while working limits are in
effect...................................
214.327 Inaccessible track:
(a) Improper control of entry to 3,000 6,000
inaccessible track.........................
(5) Remotely controlled switch not 3,000 6,000
properly secured by control operator.....
(b) Train or equipment moving within 3,000 6,000
inaccessible track limits without
permission of roadway worker in charge.....
(c) Unauthorized train or equipment located 2,000 5,000
within inaccessible track limits...........
214.329 Train approach warning provided by
watchmen/lookouts:
(a) Failure to give timely warning of ........... 5,000
approaching train..........................
(b)(1) Failure of watchman/lookout to give ........... 3,000
full attention to detecting approach of
train......................................
(2) Assignment of other duties to watchman/ 3,000 5,000
lookout..................................
(c) Failure to provide proper warning signal 2,000 5,000
devices....................................
(d) Failure to maintain position to receive ........... 2,000
train approach warning signal..............
(e) Failure to communicate proper warning 1,500 3,000
signal.....................................
(f)(1) Assignment of non-qualified person as 3,000 5,000
watchman/lookout...........................
(2) Non-qualified person accepting ........... 1,500
assignment as watchman/lookout...........
(g) Failure to properly equip a watchman/ 2,000 4,000
lookout....................................
[[Page 170]]
214.331 Definite train location:
(a) Definite train location established 3,000 5,000
where prohibited...........................
(b) Failure to phase out definite train 3,000 5,000
location by required date..................
(d)(1) Train location information issued by 2,000 5,000
unauthorized person........................
(2) Failure to include all trains operated 3,000 5,000
on train location list...................
(5) Failure to clear a by ten minutes at ........... 2,000
the last station at which time is shown..
(6) Train passing station before time 3,000 5,000
shown in train location list.............
(7) Non-qualified person using definite 2,000 3,000
train location to establish on- track
safety...................................
214.333 Informational line-ups of trains:
(a) Informational line-ups of trains used 3,000 5,000
for on-track safety where prohibited.......
(b) Informational line-up procedures 5,000 10,000
inadequate to protect roadway workers......
(c) Failure to discontinue informational 5,000 10,000
line-ups by required date..................
214.335 On-track safety procedures for roadway
work groups :
(a) Failure to provide on-track safety for a 3,000 5,000
member of a roadway work group.............
(b) Member of roadway work group fouling a ........... 2,000
track without authority of employee in
charge.....................................
(c) Failure to provide train approach 3,000 5,000
warning or working limits on adjacent track
where required.............................
214.337 On-track safety procedures for lone
workers:
(b) Failure by employer to permit individual 5,000 10,000
discretion in use of individual train
detection..................................
(c)(1) Individual train detection used by 2,000 4,000
non-qualified employee.....................
(2) Use of individual train detection ........... 2,000
while engaged in heavy or distracting
work.....................................
(3) Use of individual train detection in ........... 2,000
controlled point or manual interlocking..
(4) Use of individual train detection with ........... 2,000
insufficient visibility..................
(5) Use of individual train detection with ........... 2,000
interfering noise........................
(6) Use of individual train detection ........... 3,000
while a train is passing.................
(d) Failure to maintain access to place of ........... 2,000
safety clear of live tracks................
(e) Lone worker unable to maintain vigilant ........... 2,000
lookout....................................
(f)(1) Failure to prepare written statement ........... 1,500
of on-track safety.........................
(2) Incomplete written statement of on- ........... 1,000
track safety.............................
(3) Failure to produce written statement ........... 1,500
of on-track safety to FRA................
214.339 Audible warning from trains:
(a) Failure to require audible warning from 2,000 4,000
trains.....................................
(b) Failure of train to give audible warning 1,000 3,000
where required.............................
214.341 Roadway maintenance machines:
(a) Failure of on-track safety program to 3,000 5,000
include provisions for safety near roadway
maintenance machines.......................
(b) Failure to provide operating 2,000 4,000
instructions...............................
(1) Assignment of non-qualified employee 2,000 5,000
to operate machine.......................
(2) Operator unfamiliar with safety 2,000 5,000
instructions for machine.................
(3) Roadway worker working with unfamiliar 2,000 5,000
machine..................................
(c) Roadway maintenance machine not clear of 3,000 6,000
passing trains.............................
214.343 Training and qualification, general:
(a)(1) Failure of railroad program to 5,000 10,000
include training provisions................
(2) Failure to provide initial training... 3,000 6,000
(b) Failure to provide annual training...... 2,500 5,000
(c) Assignment of non-qualified railroad 4,000 8,000
employees to provide on-track safety.......
(d)(1) Failure to maintain records of 2,000 4,000
qualifications.............................
(2) Incomplete records of qualifications.. 1,000 3,000
(3) Failure to provide records of 2,000 4,000
qualifications to FRA....................
214.345 Training for all roadway workers
214.347 Training and qualification for lone
workers
214.349 Training and qualification of watchmen/
lookouts
214.351 Training and qualification of flagmen
214.353 Training and qualification of roadway
workers who provide on-track safety for
roadway work groups
214.355 Training and qualification in on-track
safety for operators of roadway maintenance
machines
Subpart D--On-Track Roadway Maintenance
Machines and Hi-Rail Vehicles
214.503 Good-faith challenges; procedures for
notification and resolution:
(a) Failure of employee to notify employer ........... 4,000
that the machine or vehicle does not
comply with this subpart or has a
condition inhibiting safe operation......
(b) Roadway worker required to operate 5,000 10,000
machine or vehicle when good-faith
challenge not resolved...................
(c) Failure of employer to have or follow 5,000 10,000
written procedures to resolve good-faith
challenges...............................
214.505 Required environmental control and
protection systems for new on-track roadway
maintenance machines with enclosed cabs:
(a) Failure to equip new machines with 5,000 10,000
required systems.........................
(b) Failure of new or existing machines to 5,000 10,000
protect employees from exposure to air
contaminants.............................
(c) Failure of employer to maintain 2,000 4,000
required list of machines or make list
available................................
(d) Removal of ``designated machine'' from 2,000 4,000
list before retired or sold..............
(e) Personal respiratory protective 5,000 10,000
equipment not provided when ventilation
system fails.............................
(f) Personal respiratory protective 5,000 10,000
equipment fails to meet required
standards................................
(g) Other new machines with enclosed cabs 5,000 10,000
not equipped with operable heating and
ventilation systems......................
[[Page 171]]
(h) Non-enclosed station not equipped with 5,000 10,000
covering, where feasible.................
214.507 Required safety equipment for new on-
track roadway maintenance machines:
(a)(1)-(5) Failure to equip new machine or 5,000 10,000
provide protection as specified in these
paragraphs...............................
(a)(6)-(7) Failure to equip new machine 2,500 5,000
with first-aid kit or operative and
charged fire extinguisher................
(b) Position for operator to stand not 5,000 10,000
properly equipped to provide safe and
secure position..........................
(c) New machine not equipped with accurate 2,500 5,000
speed indicator, as required.............
(d) As-built light weight not 2,500 5,000
conspicuously displayed on new machine...
214.509 Required visual illumination and 2,500 5,000
reflective devices for new on-track roadway
maintenance machines.........................
214.511 Required audible warning devices for 5,000 10,000
new on-track roadway maintenance machines....
214.513 Retrofitting of existing on-track
roadway maintenance machines; general:
(a) Failure to provide safe and secure 5,000 10,000
position and protection from moving parts
2,000 4,000 inside cab for each roadway
worker transported on machine............
(b) Horn or other audible warning device 2,500 5,000
is missing, inoperable, or has non-
compliant triggering mechanism...........
(c) Illumination device or portable light 2,500 5,000
missing, inoperable, improperly secured,
or incapable of illuminating track as
required.................................
214.515 Overhead covers for existing on-track
roadway maintenance machines:
(a) Failure to repair, reinstall, or 5,000 10,000
maintain overhead cover as required......
(b) Failure to provide written response to 2,000 4,000
operator's request within 60 days........
214.517 Retrofitting of existing on-track
roadway maintenance machines manufactured on
or after January 1, 1991:
(a) Failure to equip machine with change- 5,000 10,000
of-direction alarm or rearward viewing
device...................................
(b) Failure to equip machine with 5,000 10,000
operative heater.........................
(c) Failure to display light weight of 2,500 5,000
machine as required......................
(d) Failure to equip machine with 5,000 10,000
reflective material, reflective device,
or operable brake lights.................
(e) Failure to install or replace safety 5,000 10,000
glass as required........................
(f) Failure to equip machine with 5,000 10,000
turntable restraint device or warning
light as required........................
(g) Failure to equip machine with 5,000 10,000
handholds, handrails, or secure seat or
bench position as required...............
214.518 Safe and secure position for riders... 5,000 10,000
214.519 Floors, decks, stairs, and ladders for 5,000 10,000
on-track roadway maintenance machines........
214.521 Flagging equipment for on-track 2,500 5,000
roadway maintenance machines and hi-rail
vehicles.....................................
214.523 Hi-rail vehicles:
(a) Failure to inspect hi-rail gear 5,000 10,000
annually.................................
(b) Failure to maintain inspection record 2,000 4,000
or make record available to FRA..........
(c) Failure to equip new hi-rail vehicle 2,500 5,000
with alarm and light or beacon as
required.................................
(d)(2) Failure of operator to tag, date or 2,000 4,000
report non-complying condition...........
(d)(3) Failure to repair or replace non- 2,500 5,000
complying alarms, lights or beacons as
required.................................
214.525 Towing with on-track roadway 5,000 10,000
maintenance machines or hi-rail vehicles.....
214.527 On-track roadway maintenance machines;
inspection for compliance and schedule for
repairs:
(a) Failure of operator to check on-track 2,000 4,000
roadway maintenance machine for
compliance...............................
(b) Failure of oeprator to tag, date, or 2,000 4,000
report noncomplying condition............
(c)(1)-(4) Failure to meet requirements 2,500 5,000
for operating on-track roadway
maintenance machine with non-complying
headlights, work lights, horn, fire
extinguisher, alarm, warning light, or
beacon...................................
(c)(5) Failure to repair or replace 5,000 10,000
defective or missing operator's seat
within required time period..............
214.529 In-service failure of primary braking 5,000 10,000
system.......................................
214.531 Schedule of repairs; general.......... 2,500 5,000
214.533 Schedule of repairs subject to
availability of parts:
(a)-(c) Failure to order necessary 2,500 5,000
part(s), make repair(s), or remove on-
track roadway maintenance machine or hi-
rail vehicle from service as required....
(d) Failure to maintain record or make 2,000 4,000
record available to FRA..................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ A penalty may be assessed against an individual only for a willful
violation. The Administrator reserves the right to assess a penalty of
up to $22,000 for any violation where circumstances warrant. See 49
CFR part 209, appendix A.
[57 FR 28127, June 24, 1992, as amended at 61 FR 65981, Dec. 16, 1996;
63 FR 11620, Mar. 10, 1998; 68 FR 44412, July 28, 2003]
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