Railroad Track Inspection and Safety Standards
Rail Workshop | Available
Track is the foundation of the railroad's physical plant. Although railroad track components are relatively simple in concept, they interact in a complex fashion to form a system capable of withstanding the extremely large forces applied by rail vehicles. Safe and reliable train operations rely upon the track system remaining within established specifications. Because the combined effects of traffic and environment degrade track, regular inspection is essential to identify defects and initiate remedial action before problems develop. This course describes track defects and acceptable corrective actions, presents a recommended methodology for conducting inspections, and discusses in depth the Federal Track Safety Standards in 49 CFR, Part 213.
Download Brochure
In this class, you will
- > learn how to organize, conduct, and document track inspections
- > learn how to measure track parameters
- > develop a clear understanding of the Federal Track Safety Standards and the FRA track inspection process
- > learn how to use inspection results to identify track maintenance needs and plan maintenance activities.
This course has been reviewed and approved by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) under CFR Part 243 of the new training rule. This course is intended for safety-related railroad employees or independent students who seek employment with a railroad and/or a railroad contractor and who may be tasked with the application of Federal regulation 49 CFR Part 213, Track Safety Standards, Subparts A-F. The course does not contain an on-the-job training (OJT component). This is the only comprehensive course on track inspection providing sufficient time to discuss this complex subject in detail and to demonstrate the measurement techniques needed. Hundreds of attendees through the years have increased their understanding of the track inspection process as a result of this class.
PDHs Available: 27 PDHs (Professional Development Hours) are available for those completing the course. All attendees who successfully finish the course receive a certificate of completion
Dave Clarke
Dr. Clarke, formerly Director of the University of Tennessee’s Center for Transportation, brings nearly 40 years of experience encompassing a variety of railroad design, inspection, research and education activities. He has taught railway related courses including this one, to college students and professionals since 1990. Dr. Clarke is well versed in the Federal Track Safety Standards covered in this course, and is frequently engaged as an expert to assess track conditions. As a licensed civil engineer, Dr. Clarke prepares specifications and designs for railroad track construction and maintenance. He is active in railroad related committees of AREMA, ASCE and TRB