After a decade, OSHA issues new railroad construction rules

Most railroad construction will be exempted from OSHA construction crane regulations when a federal final rule revision takes effect Nov. 16.

The changes sought by the railroad industry were announced Monday following almost a decade of litigation and negotiation between OSHA and the Association of American Railroads.

The revisions exempt railroad construction workers from having to pass OSHA-mandated construction crane operator certification tests. The changes also exempt equipment used by railroads to do tasks such as installing railroad ties, building rock road beds supporting the track and ties, and installing the structures railroad signals, and…

The final rule will maintain safety and health protections for workers, while reducing compliance burdens, according to the agencyt.  The final rule adds certain exemptions and clarifications to recognize the unique equipment and circumstances in railway roadway work.  The rule also reflects that some OSHA requirements, with regard to the operation of railroad roadway maintenance machines equipped with cranes, are preempted by Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations.”

Share on Socials!

Related Articles

Related Articles

ASSP aims to remove barriers to safety and health

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), the world’s oldest professional safety organization founded in 1911, is taking steps to improve diversity, equity and inclusion within ...
Read More

Brass Knuckle®, Application-Specific Protective Gloves Are Easy to Source

User-friendly selection tools take the guesswork out of stocking The hand is the leading body part injured at work and treated in hospital emergency departments, with ...
Read More

ASSP Forms Policy Statements on Heat Stress and Pandemic

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) maintains data-driven and solutions-based positions on issues that impact occupational safety and health. ASSP has developed new policy statements ...
Read More

Follow IHW!

Leaders in Industrial Hygiene

 

AccuTec-IHS
BOWMAN Dispensers, LLC
ENMET
HafcoVac
ILC
Miller Electric
Nilfisk
OHD
SHOWA
TSI

 

Subscribe!

Sign up to receive our industry publications for FREE!

Industrial Hygiene

Construction Safety