Federal Register #2130-AD14

FRA Final Rule: Revised Definition of Non-Traversable Curb in Train Horn Regulation

This notice announces a regulatory update by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regarding train horn regulations and non-traversable curbs: - The FRA, under the Department of Transportation, has revised the definition of a non-traversable curb in its train horn regulation. - The updated rule allows highway speeds up to 45 mph in quiet zones where non-traversable curbs are present, aligning with five longstanding FRA waivers. - The rule recommends that non-traversable curbs at these speeds incorporate engineering controls consistent with guidance from organizations such as AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials). - The rule also permits the electronic posting of reportable injuries and occupational illnesses at railroad establishments, removing the requirement for physical signatures. - No specific products, OEMs, or vendors are mentioned, and no procurement of goods or services is requested in this rulemaking. - The rule is intended to improve safety and administrative efficiency for railroad operations in quiet zones.

Description

This final rule revises the definition of a non-traversable curb in the Federal Railroad Administration's train horn regulation. It aligns the definition with five longstanding FRA waivers that permit highway speeds up to 45 miles per hour where these curbs are present in quiet zones. The rule updates the speed limit from 40 mph to 45 mph and includes recommendations for appropriate engineering controls consistent with industry guidance. The rule is effective May 28, 2026.

View original listing