Action
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
In June 1996, FRA convened a working group comprised of rail industry and labor representatives to recommend revisions to FRA's radio standards and procedures (49 CFR part 220). The working group examined extensive data and debated how to make the regulations more flexible, thereby improving compliance, and whether to mandate radios and other forms of wireless communications to convey emergency and need to know information. After studying these issues, the working group proposed to require wireless communications devices, including radios, for specified classifications of railroad operations and roadway workers. This part would therefore be retitled to reflect its proposed coverage of other means of wireless communications such as cellular telephones and data radio terminals. These proposed amendments, which are based upon both FRA and working group recommendations, would accommodate changing technologies, while continuing to ensure sound safety practices.