Norfolk Southern Petitions for Virtual Reality Railroad Training Waiver
Published Date: 4/23/2026
Notice
Summary
Norfolk Southern Railway wants to change how it trains its workers by using virtual simulations instead of in-person hands-on practice. This could make training easier and more thorough without extra costs. The public can share their thoughts on this idea until June 22, 2026.
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Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Railroad Virtual Simulation Training Waiver
If you are a Norfolk Southern conductor or supervisor, Norfolk Southern asked the Federal Railroad Administration to let it use virtual simulations (web-based or desktop software) instead of the required "hands-on" portion of periodic refresher training under 49 CFR 232.203(b)(8). Norfolk Southern says the blended simulation training gives employees a greater volume of defect examples so they can more accurately identify issues and apply corrective actions. FRA is accepting public comments on the petition through June 22, 2026.
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