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Thursday, March 28, 2024

FRA in the USA issues guidance for improving safety at highway-rail grade crossings and preventing railroad trespassing

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U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced guidance for further reducing highway-rail grade crossing and railroad trespassing incidents. The guidance to railroads and state and local governments is also aimed at keeping pedestrians safe near train stations.

“Safety is our number one priority, and we are committed to protecting lives in these situations where danger is easily avoided,” said Secretary LaHood. “Reducing risks at grade crossings and train stations, as well as keeping trespassers off the tracks, will save lives.”

The guidance documents from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) are required by the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008.  Strategies to reduce violations at highway-rail grade crossings include working with Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) on expanded community outreach, additional law enforcement action and installation of warning devices.

Prevention strategies also include expanded educational outreach through OLI and the development of community action plans in concert with greater law enforcement action. FRA recommends additional signs to keep trespassers off tracks and the use of technologies such as motion sensors and video cameras.

Recommendations for railroad station safety include providing audible and visual warnings of approaching trains, station and platform structural improvements and, where feasible, fences to prohibit access to railroad tracks.

“Trespassing, intentional violation of warning devices at highway-rail grade crossings and pedestrian safety need to be better addressed, and our guidance provides the means to achieve greater safety,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. “These types of incidents are preventable, and lives can be saved through these strategies.”

1 COMMENT

  1. question no one has  been  able  to  answer,can  an  oil  delivery man drag  there  fill  hose over a  rail  track  to  fill  55  gal  drums  waiting on  the  other  side..there is no  vehicle crossing  so  was only  way  he  could  do  it  thanks  doug

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