BNSF Seeks Longer Signal Test Breaks
Published Date: 3/3/2025
Notice
Summary
BNSF Railway asked the Federal Railroad Administration to keep letting them test some of their train signal equipment every four years instead of every two. This extension helps BNSF save time and money while keeping trains safe. The public can share their thoughts on this by May 2, 2025.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Tests every four years instead of two
BNSF asked the Federal Railroad Administration to extend a waiver so certain solid-state microprocessor-based signal locking systems covered by 49 CFR 236.377–236.381 would be tested at least once every four years instead of every two years. BNSF says less-frequent testing reduces disruption to signal circuits and train operations and reduces employee time spent foul of track; it also reports zero false-proceed signal incidents from this equipment since 2009.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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