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?
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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?
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Use of 213.9b indicates we are operating over a track or defect that _____________
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What determines the FRA class of a track?
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Match the following train speeds with their respective class of track:
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What is an example of a class specific defect?
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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.
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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.