FRA: Direct Final Rule

Accident/Incident Investigation Policy

Recently the Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) released a direct final rule to amend its accident/Incident regulations governing reporting, classification, and investigations by codifying the FRA’s policy form which was created as a joint effort with stakeholders for both labor and rail organizations. It is for this reason the final rule is being released as a direct final rule.

The effective date of the direct final rule will be October 31, 2024, unless the FRA receives an adverse or substantive comment by October 31, 2024, in which then the FRA will publish a timely withdrawal in the federal register. It is the intention of the FRA to

create a standard process for investigators to use during accident and incident investigations. It will help investigators determine when it is appropriate and the appropriate method for gathering information about the accident or incident under investigation from railroad carriers, contractors or employees of railroad carriers, or representatives of employees of railroad carriers, and others. It will also be used to determine when it is appropriate to consult with railroad carriers, contractors or employees of railroad carriers, or representatives of employees of railroad carriers, and others, as determined relevant by the Secretary, for technical expertise on the facts of the accident or incident under investigation.

So, if you are affected by this final rule or feel as though it could have adverse or substantive effects on you, you have until October 31, 2024, to make your opinion know. As, always, if you would like to view the direct final rule in its entirety you can click HERE NOW!

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