The scope of the audit (download below) includes Metrorail’s communications systems (voice or data transmission systems and related equipment) presently in use or available for use (e.g. back-up systems). This includes radio and public address (PA) systems. The audit’s objectives include the assessment of communications systems inspections, maintenance, engineering, operational practices and procedures, and associated training for purposes of compliance with applicable Metrorail plans and procedures, regulations, and best practices.
The audit also focused on Metrorail corrective action plans including Metrorail’s Quality Assurance, Internal Compliance & Oversight (Quality) internal audits and corrective action plans, WMSC corrective action plans, and WMATA recommended corrective actions that are overseen by the WMSC along with review of any related safety event investigations involving Metrorail’s communication systems.
The audit identified critical areas where Metrorail does not follow its procedures and requirements. There are four findings that Metrorail is required to address through the corrective action process, as well as one existing corrective action plan (C-0219) that required modification. There are additionally two recommendations for Metrorail’s consideration. The findings and recommendations identified are:
Findings
- “Finding #1: Communication personnel are not consistently completing preventive maintenance on its public address and radio communication systems in accordance with Metrorail’s procedures.
- “Finding #2: Metrorail does not have adequate supervisory oversight to ensure adherence to testing and replacement requirements for electrical safety gloves.
- “Finding #3: Metrorail rooms that contain communication systems equipment are not maintained in accordance with Metrorail policy to ensure an optimal environment for those vital systems.
- “Finding #4: Metrorail is not maintaining its self-assessed staffing levels required to maintain its current communication systems.”
Recommendations
- “Recommendation 1: Metrorail should review how it deploys and safeguards vital communications equipment.
- “Recommendation 2: Metrorail should review the maintenance tasks related to its communication systems and ensure that all personnel have the necessary equipment to complete them.”
Metrorail is required to propose corrective action plans to address each finding no later than 30 days after the issuance of the report.
