News Flash!

Check your speed --
beware of decertification

FRA inspectors to crack down on end-of-train devices, auxiliary lights

CLEVELAND, Feb. 13 -- The Federal Railroad Administration will soon begin regulation compliance inspections to ensure that all U.S. railroads are operating their trains with auxiliary lights and two-way end-of-train devices.

As a consequence, and to ensure compliance with these two regulations, the FRA will hand out fines and citations on railroads where the devices are not functioning properly. The BLE has been informed that the FRA will download event recorders to check train speeds to ensure compliance.

Here are some important reminders regarding train speed if the end-of-train device fails en route or if the auxiliary lights are not working properly:

• FRA regulations require that if the end-of-train device fails en route, the speed of your train is limited to 30 miles per hour.
• Also, if your locomotive is running with an inoperative auxiliary light, then you are restricted to 20 miles per hour when passing public highway-rail grade crossings.

Unless your railroad is seeking a waiver from the FRA, you will be subjected to these inspections.

Don't jeopardize your certification -- comply with all FRA regulations!