According to FTA, the final rule (download below), which will go into effect on Nov. 1, 2024, “clarifies voluntary PTSCTP participation and sets administrative requirements for communication processes between FTA and FTA recipients subject to the requirements of this rule.” The final rule also adds new definitions and revises existing definitions to coordinate and align with other FTA programs and safety rulemakings, the agency noted.
The certification training program, FTA says, sets requirements for safety professionals in rail transit agencies, as well as those with oversight functions at State Safety Oversight Agencies. The training program updates are the result of months of work by Biden-Harris Administration leaders and in response to comments filed by stakeholders, including transit agencies, according to FTA.
In the first major update to the safety certification training program regulation since 2018, FTA says it has “improved the recertification process and refined communication procedures to manage the program more effectively.” As part of the revisions, FTA is “providing greater flexibility in the curriculum to address changing training needs as the industry evolves.” The updated rule, FTA adds, also streamlines administrative requirements “to help ensure everyone who needs to receive training does so.”
This update builds upon the PTSCTP rule issued in 2018, which established a uniform curriculum for safety oversight training, as well as minimum requirements “to enhance the technical proficiency of those who conduct safety audits and examinations.”
“The safe operation of public transit is always FTA’s top priority,” said FTA Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool. “Today’s updates to the training regulation reflect our steadfast commitment, in cooperation with our state and industry partners, that every transit rider and worker has a safe and reliable transportation experience.”
FTA will provide technical assistance to transit agencies to help implement the regulation.
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