Questions and Answers
What are the options to bring a track back into compliance if it does not comply with the requirements of FRA part 213?
3R's: Repair, Reduce, Remove.
What is the FRA maximum wear allowed on the raised guard of a self-guarded frog?
3/8 inches.
FRA part 213 represents _____________ for railroad track that is part of the general railroad system of transportation.
Minimum Safety Requirements.
What must a 213.7a or 213.7b qualified person demonstrate to the track owner?
Signup and view all the answers
If the railroad continues to operate over track not good for at least class 1 track standards under the authority of a 213.7a person, how long can they continue to do so without bringing the track back into compliance?
Signup and view all the answers
Use of 213.9b indicates we are operating over a track or defect that _____________
Signup and view all the answers
What determines the FRA class of a track?
Signup and view all the answers
Match the following train speeds with their respective class of track:
Signup and view all the answers
What is an example of a class specific defect?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Track Compliance and Repair Options
- Compliance with FRA part 213 can be restored by REPAIRING defects, imposing speed RESTRICTIONS, or REMOVING the track from service.
- Authority for operating a non-compliant track can be granted to a qualified person per 213.7a, following specific provisions like 213.9b and 213.11.
Self-Guarded Frog Wear Limitations
- The maximum allowable wear on the raised guard of a self-guarded frog is 3/8 inches as per FRA regulations.
- BNSF standards recommend a 1/4-inch wear threshold for initiating repairs.
FRA Part 213 Requirements
- FRA part 213 establishes MINIMUM safety requirements for railroad track within the general system of transportation.
- It does not apply to track maintenance purposes.
Qualifications of a Qualified Person
- A qualified person under 213.7a must have at least one year of supervisory experience in track maintenance or relevant educational training.
- The individual must demonstrate knowledge of FRA requirements and must be authorized in writing by the track owner to correct compliance deviations.
- Under 213.7b, designated inspectors must also have a year of inspection experience, the ability to detect deviations, and written authorization for remedial actions.
Track Operation Under Compliance Issues
- A railroad can operate over track not meeting class 1 standards for up to 30 days under the supervision of a 213.7a qualified person before required compliance action must occur.
Reclassification of Track
- Operating under 213.9b indicates usage of track that falls short of requirements for its intended class, leading to classification at the next lowest appropriate class.
Determination of Track Class
- Track class is determined by the AUTHORIZED speeds for both freight and passenger trains.
Class of Track by Train Speeds
- Specific train speeds correlate with track classes as follows:
- 15 MPH Passenger = Class 1
- 15 MPH Freight = Class 2
- 30 MPH Freight = Class 3
- 50 MPH Passenger = Class 3
- 55 MPH Freight = Class 4
- 5 MPH Freight = Class 1
- 85 MPH Passenger = Class 5
- 10 MPH Passenger = Class 1
- 45 MPH Freight = Class 4
- 35 MPH Freight = Class 3
FRA Defect Examples
- Class Specific Defect: Gage restraint measurement system issues.
- Speed Defined Defect: Cracked or broken joint bars must be replaced under specific conditions.
- Non-Class Specific Defect: Robust identification and adherence to fastening requirements for both conventional and welded rail tracks.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz covers the options available for bringing a track into compliance with FRA part 213 when it is found to be non-compliant. Learn about the 3R's: Repair, Reduce, and Remove, and understand how each option impacts train operations. Test your knowledge on safety regulations and procedures related to track maintenance.
