signal equipment on train tracks

Agency Sets Hearing on Positive Train Control Rule

The Federal Railroad Administration is implementing a requirement of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008 and will hear from stakeholders in the all-day meeting Aug. 13 in Washington, D.C.

  • Jul 23, 2009

The Federal Railroad Administration has scheduled an Aug. 13 public meeting to discuss its July 21 proposed rule implementing the requirement for positive train control systems on certain passenger and freight railroads. Those companies required to submit implementation plans by the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008 must have the plans reviewed and approved by FRA; railroads not covered by the law may adopt the technology voluntarily.

PTC is technology that will automatically slow or stop a train if the engineer fails to take corrective action in time, such as stopping a train before it passes a red signal. Major freight railroads and intercity and commuter rail operators must submit their plans by April, 16, 2010, and PTC systems must be fully in place by the end of 2015.

The public hearing will take place at the Washington Plaza Hotel, 10 Thomas Circle NW, Washington, DC 20005.

Anyone intending to testify in person at the hearing should provide written notice, referencing Docket No. FRA-2008-0132, to FRA Docket Clerk, Office of Chief Counsel, Federal Railroad Administration, 1200 New Jersey Ave. SE, RCC-10, Stop 10, Washington, DC 20590 or fax it to 202-493-6068.

For more information, contact Thomas McFarlin, staff director of the Signal & Train Control Division in FRA's Office of Safety Assurance and Compliance, at 202-493-6203 or Jason Schlosberg, trial attorney in the Office of Chief Counsel, at 202-493-6032.

Product Showcase

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without being recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Its durability enables the detector to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, hence earning it an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as the GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. Read More

  • Full Line of Defense Against Combustible Dust Nilfisk

    Nilfisk provides a comprehensive range of industrial vacuums meticulously crafted to adhere to NFPA 652 housekeeping standards, essential for gathering combustible dust in Class I, Group D, and Class II, Groups E, F & G environments or non-classified settings. Our pneumatic vacuums are meticulously engineered to fulfill safety criteria for deployment in hazardous surroundings. Leveraging advanced filtration technology, Nilfisk ensures the secure capture of combustible materials scattered throughout your facility, ranging from fuels, solvents, and metal dust to flour, sugar, and pharmaceutical powders. Read More

  • Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker WBGT Monitoring for Workplace Safety

    Ensure safety with the Kestrel® 5400 Heat Stress Tracker, the go-to choice for safety professionals and endorsed by the Heat Safety & Performance Coalition. This robust, waterless WBGT meter is ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, offering advanced monitoring and data logging essential for OSHA compliance. It features pre-programmed ACGIH guidelines and alert settings to quickly signal critical conditions. Integrated with the cloud-based Ambient Weather Network, the 5400 allows managers to view, track, and log job site conditions remotely, ensuring constant awareness of potential hazards. Its capability for real-time mobile alerts and remote data access promotes proactive safety management and workplace protection, solidifying its role as a crucial tool in industrial hygiene. Read More

Featured

Most   Popular