CSX Transportation, Inc. submitted a petition for waiver of compliance regarding 49 CFR part 232, Brake System Safety Standards for Freight and Other Non-Passenger Trains and Equipment; End-of-Train Devices.
CSX is seeking permission to use virtual three dimensional simulation technology to satisfy the required hands-on portion of the refresher training that is required to be completed every three years.
The simulation software is based on performance of a Class I freight air brake test and is designed to place the user in a virtual realistic scenario. The user is required to perform a variety of inspection and remediation tasks relating to pre-programmed defects including closed cutout cocks, uncoupled air hoses, closed angle cocks, improperly positioned retainer valves, and fouled brake rigging. Users are required to successfully complete all tasks in the scenario.
FRA does not plan to hold a public hearing regarding the petition but interested parties may submit comments on the petition until March 16, 2020. All comments must include the docket number.
