The Federal Railroad Administration has amended the brake system safety standards for freight and non-passenger trains and equipment in an effort to strengthen requirements for the securement of unattended equipment.
Existing regulations regarding communication requirements and securement for unattended trains carrying poisonous by inhalation hazardous materials or large amounts of Division 2.1, Division 3, Class 1.1 or Class 1.2 hazardous materials were also amended to include additional securement requirements.
All locomotives that are left unattended outside of a yard will need to be equipped with an operative exterior locking mechanism. Any train that is unable to be properly secured is not permitted to be left unattended. The final rule will be in effect on October 5, 2015.
Securement of Unattended Equipment
