The reflectorization rule (download below), according to the FRA, “sets minimum safety requirements to help motor vehicle operators see rail freight rolling stock at night and in poor visibility conditions.” This final rule would codify two waivers, one excluding rail freight rolling stock used only for tourist, historic, excursion, educational, recreational, or private (THEERP) purposes, except for incidental freight service; and one allowing the use of a performance-based method to determine when to replace reflectorization sheeting.
For the latter waiver, railroads had previously been required to replace reflectorization sheeting every 10 years, “even though sheeting can continue to perform effectively beyond the 10-year mark,” according to the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA), which published the announcement in its latest edition of Views and News. The FRA now allows alternative evaluation of sheeting but continues to retain the 10-year replacement cycle as an option. “Small railroads with limited equipment may still prefer the time-based approach,” noted ASLRRA, which added that it is “pleased with the new rule, as it provides regulatory flexibility for short line railroads.”
By publishing this final rule, the FRA, ASLRRA says, eliminates the need for railroads to submit waiver petitions and request waiver extensions every five years. The FRA will also no longer need to review and approve waiver petition and extension requests.
