The Association of American Railroads submitted a petition for waiver of compliance regarding 49 CFR 232.205(b)–Class I brake test initial terminal inspection, 232.209(a)—Class II brake tests—intermediate inspection, 232.211(a)—Class III brake tests-train line continuity inspection, and 232.217(c)—Train brake tests conducted using yard air. AAR submitted the petition on behalf of its member railroads. The petition focuses on the portion of the regulation that requires a brake test or inspection be performed if the car has been off-air for more than four hours. AAR is seeking permission to extend the off-air time to 24 hours.
At this time, FRA has no plans to hold a public hearing on the petition. Interested parties may submit comments until February 26, 2018.