FRA Guide for Preparing

Accidents/Incidents Reports

U.S. Department of Transportation

Federal Railroad Administration

_____________________________________________________________

Office of Safety

______________________________________________________________

 DOT/FRA/RRS-22 Effective: January 1997
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

CONTENTS

Introduction

Chapter 1 Overview of Accident/Incident Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

Chapter 2 Definitions

Chapter 3 Form FRA F 6180.55 - Railroad Injury and Illness Summary

Chapter 4 Form FRA F 6180.98 - Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness

Record

Chapter 5 Form FRA F 6180.97 - Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident

Record

Chapter 6 Form FRA F 6180.55a - Railroad Injury and Illness Summary

(Continuation Sheet)

Chapter 7 Form FRA F 6180.54 - Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Report

Chapter 8 Form FRA F 6180.81 - Employee Human Factor Attachment

Chapter 9 Form FRA F 6180.78 - Notice to Railroad Employee Involved in

Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Attributed to Employee

Human Factor

Employee Statement Supplementing Railroad Accident Report

Chapter 10 Form FRA F 6180.57 - Highway-Rail Grade Crossing

Accident/Incident Report

Chapter 11 Form FRA F 6180.56 - Annual Railroad Report of Employee

Hours and Casualties by State

APPENDICES

Appendix A Railroad Codes

Appendix B State Codes

Appendix C Train Accident Cause Codes

Appendix D Employee Job Codes
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Appendix E Injury and Illness Codes

Appendix F Circumstance Codes

Appendix G FRA Regional Offices and Headquarters

Appendix H Forms

Appendix I Model Internal Control Plans, including Model Statement of Policy against

Harassment and Intimidation and Model Complaint Procedures
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1 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

A railroad is required by Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations at Title 49, Part 225

of the Code of Federal Regulations to use the current FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident

Reports (“Guide” or “reporting guide”) when preparing its monthly report. The instructions

and interpretations contained in this publication are provided to assist railroads in meeting

this obligation.

On June 18, November 22, November 29, and December 23, 1996, FRA published in the Federal

Register various final rule amendments to the accident reporting regulations. See 61 Fed. Reg.

30940, 61 Fed. Reg. 59368, 61 Fed. Reg. 60632, and 61 Fed. Reg. 67477, respectively. These

revisions, which become effective on January 1, 1997, were made for the following principal

reasons:

! To increase confidence that all qualifying events and information are being

accurately reported.

! To raise employee awareness concerning hazards that may exist in the work

environment and to provide opportunities for greater participation by workers in

the reporting process.

! To simplify recordkeeping and filing requirements through alternative methods for

maintaining records and filing reports.

! To collect additional information about accidents/incidents necessary for safety and

regulatory analysis.

! To provide further clarification of definitions and requirements, with the goal of

increasing uniformity and consistency of reporting among railroads.

The definition of what constitutes a reportable accident/incident has remained largely unchanged

since its adoption in 1975. Similarly, the various codes found on the report forms and contained in

the appendices have remained essentially unchanged as a result of the 1996 revisions, with one

exception. Prior to 1997, railroads recorded an "occurrence" code for each injury or illness

reported on Form FRA F 6180.55a. This code was intended to provide general information about

the activities the affected person was engaged in at the time of the accident/incident. Although 16

pages of codes were contained in the previous Guide, they were often inadequate for describing

key information associated with the event. This caused a large number of cases to be recorded

with codes that represented "other" or "miscellaneous." The "occurrence" codes previously found

in Appendix F have been replaced with a new set of "circumstance" codes. These, along with a

narrative description, will provide a better understanding of the activity, location, tools, causes,

and other factors associated with injuries and illnesses.
INTRODUCTION - Continued

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2 INTRODUCTION

The Guide is organized into sections corresponding to the different reporting requirements and

retains the same general format as the previous edition. New sections have been added that

describe the requirements for recording accountable accidents/incidents. Questions and answers

to commonly asked reporting questions have been added to the sections to which they pertain.

The instructions in the Guide are limited to issues associated with reporting and recordkeeping. 

Railroads may now transmit their monthly reports to the FRA by alternative means, e.g., magnetic

media and electronically via telephone lines. The technical information needed for doing this is

not described in the Guide, since it is not necessary for reporting decisions. A separate manual is

available upon request that contains the specifications for doing this and is titled Guidelines for

Submitting Accident/Incident Reports by Alternative Methods.

To assist railroads in maintaining and submitting records and reports required by this rule, the

FRA developed the software package Accident/Incident Report Generator (AIRG) for the personal

computer (PC) that runs in a Windows-based environment. See 61 Fed. Reg. 59485 (Nov. 22,

1996). The FRA will provide you with a registered copy of this software free of charge upon

request by the reporting officer. 

Please note that in the Guide the ordinary convention on placement of quotation marks is not

followed. In order to avoid confusion about what should be entered in a block on a form,

quotation marks are placed inside periods and commas in a sentence.

Finally, the FRA thanks all those individuals and organizations that have provided assistance and

guidance in drafting the regulation and revising the reporting guide. 
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1

 For brevity, further references in the Guide to sections in 49 CFR Part 225 will omit “49

CFR” and include only the section, e.g., § 225.9.

 

2

 Title 49, United States Code (U.S.C.) Chapters 51, 201-213.

 

Accident/Incident Reporting and Chapter 1 - Page 1 Recordkeeping Requirements

CHAPTER 1

Overview of Railroad Accident/Incident Reporting and 

Recordkeeping Requirements

A. GENERAL

The Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) regulations on reporting railroad

accidents/incidents are found primarily in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part

225 (49 CFR Part 225). 

Purpose. The purpose of the regulations in Part 225 is to provide FRA with accurate information

concerning the hazards and risks that exist on the Nation's railroads. See 49 CFR 

§ 225.1.1 FRA needs this information to effectively carry out its regulatory and enforcement

responsibilities under the Federal railroad safety statutes.2 FRA also uses this information for

determining comparative trends of railroad safety and to develop hazard elimination and risk

reduction programs that focus on preventing railroad injuries and accidents. Issuance of these

regulations preempts States from prescribing accident/incident reporting requirements. Any State

may, however, require railroads to submit to it copies of reports filed with FRA under Part 225

for accidents/incidents that occur in that State. 

Applicability. Except as discussed under the heading “Partial relief to certain small railroads,”

these FRA accident/incident reporting requirements apply to all railroads except--

1. A railroad that operates freight trains only on track inside an

installation which is not part of the general railroad system of

transportation or that owns no track except for track that is inside an

installation that is not part of the general railroad system of

transportation and used for freight operations.

2. Rail mass transit operations in an urban area that are not connected

with the general railroad system of transportation.

3. A railroad that exclusively hauls passengers inside an installation

that is insular or that owns no track except for track used exclusively

for the hauling of passengers inside an installation that is insular. 

An operation is not considered insular if one or more of the

following exists on its line:
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a. A public highway-rail grade crossing that is in use;

b. An at-grade rail crossing that is in use;

c. A bridge over a public road or waters used for commercial

navigation; or

d. A common corridor with a railroad, i.e., its

operations are within 30 feet of those of any

railroad.

See § 225.3.

Part 225 covers any and all activities of a railroad related to the performance of its rail

transportation business. “Railroad transportation” means any form of non-highway ground

transportation that run on rails or electro-magnetic guideways, including (1) commuter or other

short-haul railroad passenger service in a metropolitan or suburban area, as well as any commuter

railroad service that was operated by the Consolidated Rail Corporation as of January 1, 1979,

and (2) high speed ground transportation systems that connect metropolitan areas, without regard to

whether they use new technologies not associated with traditional railroads. Such term does not

include rapid transit operations within an urban area that are not connected to the general railroad

system of transportation. See § 225.5.

Partial relief to certain small railroads generally covered by Part 225. FRA recognizes that

small operations are concerned with the burdens, both in terms of time and expense, associated

with full implementation of the amendments to Part 225 issued in 1996. Based on additional

analyses, FRA concludes that it can grant partial relief to certain small operations without

compromising the accuracy of its accident reporting data base. See § 225.3. These operations

are:

1. Railroads that operate or own track on the general railroad system of transportation

that have 15 or fewer employees covered by the hours of service law (49 U.S.C. §§

21101-21107) and 

2. Railroads that operate or own track exclusively off the general system.

(See 49 CFR Part 228, App. A for a discussion of employees covered by the hours of 

service law.)

If your railroad is subject to Part 225 at all and falls in either of the above categories, then you

need not adopt and comply with components 3 through 10 of the Internal Control Plan requirements

in § 225.33. See §225.33(a)(3)-(10). However, you must fulfill the requirements of components 1

and 2, which require a stated policy dealing with harassment and intimidation. See §
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225.33(a)(1)-(2). To assist railroads in developing this policy, the FRA has provided suggested

language, found in Appendix I to this Guide, that may be used.

A railroad in either of these two categories is also exempted from the requirements in

§ 225.25(a)-(g) to record accountable injuries and illnesses and accountable rail equipment

accidents. (See Chapter 2 for definition of accountable events.) You must also, however,

maintain a Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record of any reportable condition of one of

your employees. (See Chapter 4.)

Additionally, a railroad that is generally subject to Part 225 but that operates exclusively off the

general system (including off-the-general-system museum and tourist railroads) is not required to

report or record an injury or illness of any person that results from a “non-train incident,” unless

the non-train incident involves in-service railroad equipment. See definition of “non-train

incident” in Chapter 2. Railroads that are subject to Part 225 in the first place and that operate

exclusively off the general system must, however, continue to comply with Part 225 requirements

regarding reporting and recording injuries and illnesses incurred by any person that result from a

“train accident,” “train incident,” or a small subset of “non-train incidents” that involve railroad

equipment in operation but not moving.

Example 1: a visitor or an employee of a non-insular, off-the-general-system museum

railroad falls off a railroad car that is on fixed display in the museum building and breaks

his or her ankle. This injury is classified as an injury from a “non-train incident” with

equipment not in railroad service and would, therefore, not be reported to FRA.

Example 2: a volunteer, while collecting tickets on a railroad car for an excursion ride on

a non-insular, off-the-general-system tourist railroad, cuts his or her leg. This injury

requires stitches even though the car is not moving. This injury is classified as an injury

from a “non-train incident” with equipment that is in railroad service and would, therefore,

be reported to FRA.

Major reporting and recordkeeping requirements under Part 225. There are many

recordkeeping and reporting requirements arising from Part 225. A more complete discussion of

all requirements can be found later in this chapter. The following is a list of your major

recordkeeping and reporting requirements for all railroads subject to Part 225 at all:

! A monthly report must be made to the FRA even if there were no reportable events

during the report month. This form is titled RAILROAD INJURY AND

ILLNESS SUMMARY (Form FRA F 6180.55). See § 225.21(b).

! Any reportable accident/incident during the month must be sent to FRA on the

appropriate standardized form, or by means of an acceptable alternative

format, and be part of your regular monthly submission. See § 225.11.
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! You must make immediate telephonic notification of certain accidents/incidents. 

See § 225.9.

! You must post a listing of the reportable injuries and illnesses that occur to

employees of each establishment. See § 225.25(h).

! Employees must be provided access to records required to be kept by Part 225

regarding their own injury or occupational illness. See § 225.25(c).

In addition, except for railroads completely excepted from Part 225 and except for certain small

railroads discussed earlier in the “Applicability” section of this chapter, railroads must also

comply with the following major requirements:

! You must have an INTERNAL CONTROL PLAN containing ten specified

components that describes how your railroad achieves compliance with the

regulation. See § 225.33.

! You must maintain a log of each accountable and each reportable injury and

occupational illness of your employees. See § 225.25.

! You must maintain a log of each accountable and each reportable on-track

accident/incident on your railroad. See § 225.25.

Assistance and guidance in deciding the reportability of an accident/incident or otherwise

fulfilling your reporting obligation may be obtained by contacting any of the regional offices listed

in Appendix G or by writing to FRA at the address shown in Section C of this chapter. 

Access to records and reports. Under § 225.35, each railroad shall have at least one location,

and shall identify each location, where any representative of the FRA or of a State agency

participating in investigative and surveillance activities or any other authorized representative, has

centralized access to a copy of any record and report required under Part 225, for examination and

photocopying in a reasonable manner during normal business hours. Each railroad shall also

provide FRA and participating State agency representatives with access to relevant medical and

claims records for examination and photocopying in a reasonable manner during normal business

hours. Such representatives shall display proper credentials when requested. Each railroad shall

identify the locations where a copy of any record and report required under this part is accessible

for inspection and photocopying by maintaining a list of such establishment locations at the office

where the railroad's reporting officer conducts his or her official business. A copy of any record

and report required under this part shall be accessible within four business hours after the request. 

FRA will not assess a monetary penalty against the railroad for its failure to provide the requested

documentation when circumstances outside the railroad's control preclude it from fulfilling the

four-business-hour time limit and the railroad has made a reasonable effort to correct the problem.
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Should a railroad assert a legal privilege with respect to certain relevant claims and medical

records, failure to provide FRA access to such records would not constitute a violation of 

§ 225.35. FRA retains the right to issue a subpoena to obtain such records under 49 U.S.C. 

§§ 20107 and 20902 and 49 CFR §§ 209.7(a) and 225.31(b), and the railroad may contest that

subpoena.

Copies of the Regulations. Copies of other Federal regulations referenced in this Guide may be

obtained by contacting the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington,

DC 20402-9328 (telephone 202-512-1803).

Reporting Decisions. See § 225.17. The reporting officer will ordinarily decide whether or not

an incident is accountable or reportable. This decision cannot be an arbitrary one, but must be

based on a thorough review of all evidence, as opposed to speculation, related to the incident in

question and be in accordance with the requirements of the accident reports statute (49 U.S.C.

§§ 20901-20903), 49 CFR Part 225, and the guidelines provided in this Guide. If you are certain

that a particular situation is outside the scope of the reporting requirements, then the basis on

which this determination was made must be thoroughly documented before the case may be omitted

from the monthly submission. If there is any uncertainty as to whether or not to report an incident,

it is recommended that a report be made. Later, as additional information is developed, or

following consultation with FRA Office of Safety Assurance and Compliance personnel, a request

may be made to delete the incident from your file.

When facts affecting the reportability of a case are in dispute, a report may be filed as "Claimed

but not Admitted". An accident/incident reported under this provision must still be recorded on

the appropriate form and be included as part of the report package for that month. A copy of all

evidence relating to the event and a letter summarizing the reasons why it should be excluded from

the file must be provided. FRA will examine all documentation. If the facts are sufficient to

support the railroad's position, the case will not be charged against the railroad; otherwise, it will

be added to the file. In either case, FRA will advise the railroad of the agency's determination. It

is suggested that prior to making such a filing, that you contact the FRA by telephone (FRA

telephone numbers are listed in Appendix G) to discuss the overall merits 

of the case.

Neither the fact that there were no witnesses to an accident/incident nor the refusal of the railroad

to accept responsibility for an event is grounds for failing to report. A report must be made

whenever there is credible information that a reportable situation may have occurred. Later, if you

determine that the event was not reportable, a request to delete it from FRA's files is to be made.

The FRA, however, cannot delegate authority to decide matters of judgment when facts are in

dispute. In such cases the final decision as to reportability shall be that of the FRA. In arriving at

this decision, the FRA will review all investigatory material associated with the case, including,

but not limited to, the following: the initial report filed by the affected person, witness statements,
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transcripts of hearings, medical records, time and attendance records, the purpose of payouts made

in connection with the accident/incident.

Penalties. Any person (including a railroad and any manager, supervisor, official, or other

employee or agent of a railroad) who violates any requirement of Part 225 or causes the violation

of any such requirement is subject to a civil penalty. A person may also be subject to criminal

penalties.

FRA may issue these civil penalties pursuant to 49 U.S.C. §§ 21301, 21302, and 21304. Also see

Appendix A to Part 209 of the Code of Federal Regulations for other sanctions. Criminal

penalties and/or imprisonment provided for in 49 U.S.C. § 21311 may also be imposed on any

individual who knowingly and willfully makes a false entry in a record or report required by the

accident reporting regulations or other regulations issued under 49 U.S.C. Chapter 201; destroys,

mutilates, changes, or falsifies such a record or report; does not enter required specified facts in a

such record or report; makes or preserves such a record or report in violation of such a regulation

or order; or who files a false record or report with FRA. FRA wants to make it clear to all

railroads that it will be diligent in its efforts to ensure that all parties adhere to and comply with

the intimidation and harassment policy in the Internal Control Plan. It should be noted that FRA

will be aggressive in pursuing enforcement sanctions against any person found to be in violation of

the railroad’s harassment and intimidation policy. 

B. INTERNAL CONTROL PLAN

FRA believes that an Internal Control Plan (ICP) as prescribed by § 225.33 best provides the

procedures necessary to ensure that complete, reliable, and accurate data is obtained, maintained,

and disclosed by the railroads. See Appendix I to this Guide for model ICPs. FRA investigations

have repeatedly found instances in which departments within the same railroad failed to provide to

the railroad reporting officer information critical to determining reportability or information

necessary for filing an accurate and complete report.

 

The ICP is not a "command and control" system; it is a type of performance standard which

ensures the accuracy of a process and, in this case, the process is accident/incident reporting. This

ICP requirement does not tell the railroad how to develop the internal control procedures; how the

lines of communication should be established; the type of correspondence to be used; the forms

that should be used; which executives in the company are responsible for reportability decisions;

nor the periods of time necessary for information exchange. The ICP is a performance standard

that dictates the necessity for communication within each railroad to ensure that proper reporting

will be accomplished. The ICP requirements allow each railroad, regardless of size, the

flexibility to design an ICP suitable to the needs and circumstances of the particular railroad. The

ICP, therefore, may vary in size from one that is a few pages for smaller railroads and short lines,

to one of considerable size for the major carriers.
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In general, the ICP challenges the railroads to develop a Total Quality Management (TQM) system

to ensure that there are no errors in reporting. "No errors" means that all reportable accidents and

incidents are reported to the FRA and that each report is accurately completed prior to submission

to FRA, in other words, a "zero tolerance" policy with respect to inaccurate reporting. TQM

focuses on continuous and incremental improvements of process performance. 

The ICP also addresses intimidation and harassment of any person calculated to prevent or

discourage such person from either receiving proper medical treatment for an injury or illness or

from reporting an accident, incident, illness, or injury. FRA has become increasingly aware that

many railroad employees fail to disclose their injuries to the railroad or fail to accept reportable

treatment from a physician because they wish to avoid potential harassment from management or

possible discipline that is sometimes associated with the reporting of such injuries. FRA is also

aware that in some instances supervisory personnel and mid-level managers are urged to engage in

practices which may undermine or circumvent the reporting of injuries and illnesses. Railroads

must remain proactive in accurate reporting of all reportable accidents, injuries, and illnesses and

must not engage in practices that could manipulate reportability of these incidents. In some

instances, railroads report an injury or illness to FRA only after FRA inspectors make management

aware that a particular injury or illness was not reported. Many times FRA inspectors conduct an

investigation pursuant to a complaint from an employee alleging that his or her injury/illness was

not properly reported or was not reported at all. Again, the railroad usually reports this

injury/illness to FRA only after FRA informs management of the situation. 

Each railroad shall adopt and comply with a written ICP that shall be maintained at the office

where the railroad's reporting officer conducts his or her official business. Each railroad shall

amend its ICP, as necessary, to reflect any significant changes to the railroad's internal reporting

procedures. The ICP shall be designed to maintain absolute accuracy and shall include, at a

minimum, each of the following ten components (unless the railroad is excepted from having

components three through ten--see § 225.3 and the “Applicability” section of this chapter):

1. A policy statement declaring the railroad's commitment to complete

and accurate reporting of all accidents, incidents, injuries, and

occupational illnesses arising from the operation of the railroad, to

full compliance with the letter and spirit of FRA's accident

reporting regulations, and to the principle, in absolute terms, that

harassment or intimidation of any person that is calculated to

discourage or prevent such person from receiving proper medical

treatment or from reporting such accident, incident, injury or illness

will not be permitted or tolerated and will result in some stated

disciplinary action against any employee, supervisor, manager, or

officer of the railroad committing such harassment or intimidation.

2. The dissemination of the policy statement; complaint procedures. 

Each railroad shall provide to all employees, supervisory
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personnel, and management the policy statement described in

paragraph 1. Each railroad shall have procedures to process

complaints from any person about the policy stated in paragraph 1

being violated, and to impose the appropriate prescribed

disciplinary actions on each employee, supervisor, manager, or

officer of the railroad found to have violated the policy. These

procedures shall be disclosed to railroad employees, supervisors,

managers, and officers. The railroad shall provide "whistle

blower" protection to any person subject to this policy, and such

policy shall be disclosed to all railroad employees, supervisors and

management.

3. Copies of internal forms and/or a description of the internal

computer reporting system used for the collection and internal

recording of accident and incident information.

4. A description of the internal procedures used by the railroad for the

processing of forms and/or computerized data regarding accident

and incident information.

5. A description of the internal review procedures applicable to

accident and incident information collected, and reports prepared,

by the railroad's safety, claims, medical and/or other departments

engaged in collecting and reporting accident and incident

information.

6. A description of the internal procedures used for collecting cost

data and compiling costs with respect to accident and incident

information.

7. A description of applicable internal procedures for ensuring

adequate communication between the railroad department

responsible for submitting accident and incident reports to FRA and

any other department within the railroad responsible for collecting,

receiving, processing and reporting accidents and incidents.

8. A statement of applicable procedures providing for the updating of

accident and incident information prior to reporting to FRA and a

statement of applicable procedures providing for the amendment of

accident and incident information as specified in this Guide.

9. A statement that specifies the name and title of the railroad officer

responsible for auditing the performance of the reporting function; a
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statement of the frequency (not less than once per calendar year)

with which audits are conducted; and identification of the site where

the most recent audit report may be found for inspection and

photocopying. 

10. A brief description of the railroad organization, including

identification of (i) all components that regularly come into

possession of information pertinent to the preparation of reports

under this part (e.g., medical, claims, and legal departments;

operating, mechanical, and track and structures departments;

payroll, accounting, and personnel departments); (ii) the title of each

railroad reporting officer; (iii) the title of each manager of such

components, by component; and (iv) all officers to whom managers

of such components are responsible, by component. A current

organization chart satisfies items (ii), (iii), and (iv). 

C. MONTHLY FORMS AND FILING REQUIREMENTS

You must make a report each month to the FRA. Your report must be submitted within 30 days

following the month to which it applies. The report shall be made on the forms prescribed or by

means of magnetic media or electronic submission approved by FRA. See §§ 225.11, 225.19.

A Form FRA F 6180.55 (Railroad Injury and Illness Summary) must be sent each month even

though there were no reportable accidents/incidents during the month. Forms FRA F 6180.98 (or

acceptable alternative), FRA F 6180.55a, FRA F 6180.97 (or acceptable alternative), FRA F

6180.54, FRA F 6180.81, and FRA F 6180.57, are prepared whenever the accidents/incidents they

describe occurred during the report month. Form FRA F 6180.56 is an annual summary and must

be included in the reports sent for the month of December. 

Monthly reports of accidents/incidents (which are being submitted as hard copies) and related

correspondence, and magnetic media, are to be addressed to:

Federal Railroad Administration

818 Roeder Road, Suite 500

Silver Spring, MD 20910

Primary Groups of Reportable Accidents/Incidents. Accidents/incidents are divided into three

major groups for reporting purposes. See § 225.19. These correspond to different FRA forms and

are:

1. Death, injury or occupational illness (Form FRA F 6180.55a)

2. Rail equipment accident/incident (Form FRA F 6180.54)
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Note: Accident reports citing an employee human factor as a cause must

be accompanied by an Employee Human Factor Attachment (Form

FRA F 6180.81). In addition, each implicated employee must be

provided with a Notice to Railroad Employee Involved in Rail

Equipment Accident/Incident Attributed to Employee Human Factor

(Form FRA F 6180.78).

3. Highway-rail grade crossing accident/incident (Form FRA F 6180.57)

The specific requirements for the various types of accidents/incidents are described in the chapters

for completing the individual forms. A single form is usually sufficient to report most events;

however, there are situations when multiple report forms are necessary. An example is a highwayrail crossing collision resulting in reportable injuries. An accident of this type would require the

completion of both a Form FRA F 6180.57 and a Form FRA F 6180.55a. In addition, if reportable

on-track equipment and track damage in this accident exceeds the current monetary threshold for

train accidents, then a Form FRA F 6180.54 must also be prepared.

Reports are to be arranged as follows:

1. Form FRA F 6180.55

2. Form FRA F 6180.55a

3. Form FRA F 6180.54 (Attach Form FRA F 6180.81 when applicable)

4. Form FRA F 6180.57

5. Form FRA F 6180.56 (December report only)

Late Reports. When it is found that an accident/incident was omitted from a previous month's

submission, a completed report and a letter explaining the reason for the late filing are to be sent. 

The late report and letter are to be forwarded no later than the next monthly filing. See § 225.13.

Late reports are not to be attached to, nor be included in counts of, reports prepared for the current

month. Any late report is to be filed for the year and month in which the original event occurred. 

For example, an employee sustains a minor injury in June, but none of the reporting criteria is

satisfied. He is re-examined in July because of complications and is instructed to take

prescription medication and remain off work for three days. In this instance a late report for the

month of June must be prepared. 

Corrections to Reports. If it is discovered that an accident/incident has been improperly

reported, then a corrected report must be provided. The report should have the notation

"Corrected Report" at the top of the form, and items being changed are to be circled in red. If you
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discover that a report has been erroneously submitted for a nonreportable event, a copy of the

report is to be submitted with the notation "DELETE - Nonreportable" in red. 

Close of the Calendar Year. A continual review process is necessary to ensure complete and

accurate reporting. Although the submission of the December report normally completes a

calendar year file, you must continue to provide both late reports of accidents/incidents and

corrections to existing reports after this filing.

The FRA publishes final accident/incident counts following the conclusion of a reporting year. 

Files will remain open until April 15 of the next calendar year to accept additional late and

corrected reports. If after this date, an unreported accident/incident is discovered, then a late

report must be submitted. A review of your files prior to this date should be made to determine

whether any active cases are still outstanding that require additional updating, e.g., an employee

who is expected to remain off work longer than originally anticipated.

For each such accident/incident you are to file a corrected report by April 15 of the following year

and provide a "good faith" estimate of the final expected consequences. After this date it will not

be necessary to file further adjustments for these accidents/incidents. However, you must maintain

a record of the current status of each case. This file is to contain sufficient documentation to

demonstrate that any unreported change to an accident/incident reported for the previous calendar

year occurred after the April 15 filing.

Computer Submission of Reports. Railroads may now transmit their monthly reports to the FRA

by alternative means, e.g., magnetic media, electronically via telephone lines, etc. The technical

information needed for doing this is not described in the Guide, since it is not necessary for

reporting decisions. A separate manual is available upon request that contains the specifications

for doing this and is titled Guidelines for Submitting Accident/Incident Reports by Alternative

Methods.

Railroads who are initially submitting reports electronically or on magnetic media, must also

provide printed copies of these reports. FRA will review the submissions and when the electronic

(or magnetic) submissions are in total agreement with the hard copies for three consecutive

reporting months, FRA will notify the railroad, in writing, that submission of the hard copy

reports, except for the notarized Railroad Injury and Illness Summary, is no longer required. In

order to minimize the time necessary to develop software to accomplish this, the FRA will not

require that the computer generated hard copy be an exact facsimile of the standardized form. In

lieu of this, an alternate form designed by the railroad will be accepted, providing that the data is

organized in a format that parallels the order of the items on the standard form. In addition, each

data element must have a descriptive identifier attached to it that clearly identifies the data item.

Additionally, in order to assist railroads in maintaining and submitting records and reports

required by this rule, the FRA developed the software package Accident/Incident Report

Generator (AIRG) for the personal computer (PC) that runs in a Windows-based environment. See
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61 Fed. Reg. 59485 (Nov. 22, 1996). The FRA will provide you with a registered copy of this

software free of charge upon request by the reporting officer. 

D. OTHER RECORDKEEPING AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Posting of Logs. See § 225.25(h). A listing of all injuries and occupational illnesses reported to

FRA as having occurred to employees of an establishment shall be posted in a conspicuous

location at that establishment, within 30 days after the expiration of the month during which the

injuries and illnesses occurred, if the establishment has been in continual operation for a minimum

of 90 calendar days. If the establishment has not been in continual operation for a minimum of 90

calendar days, the listing of all injuries and occupational illnesses reported to FRA as having

occurred to employees of the establishment shall be posted, within 30 days after the expiration of

the month during which the injuries and illnesses occurred, in a conspicuous location at the next

higher organizational level establishment, such as one of the following: an operating division

headquarters; a major classification yard or terminal headquarters; a major equipment maintenance

or repair installation, e.g., a locomotive or rail car repair or construction facility; a railroad signal

and maintenance-of-way division headquarters; or a central location where track or signal

maintenance employees are assigned as a headquarters or receive work assignments. These

examples include facilities that are generally major facilities of a permanent nature where the

railroad generally posts or disseminates company informational notices and policies, e.g., the

policy statement in the internal control plan required by § 225.33 concerning harassment and

intimidation; notices of changes to its operating, general, or safety rules; and where informational

notices, such as job advertisements or local special instructions, are posted; near or adjacent to

postings required by other government agencies, such as the federal minimum wage notice; or

where the time-clock for the establishment is located. At a minimum, “establishment” posting is

required and shall include locations where a railroad reasonably expects its employees to report

during a 12-month period and to have the opportunity to observe the posted list containing any

reportable injuries or illnesses they have suffered during the applicable period.

There are endless examples of the types of locations that may qualify as an establishment for

purposes of § 225.25(h). Some illustrations: for a railroad without divisions or diverse

departmental headquarters, an “establishment” may be the system headquarters or general office

which is accessible to all employees; for train service employees and crews, an “establishment” is

a home terminal (as commonly defined in collective bargaining agreements), but is not a layover

terminal, outlying support yard, or their away-from-home terminal; for employees who are engaged

in dispersed operations, such as signal or track maintenance workers, the "establishment" is the

location where these employees regularly report for work assignments; for railroad system track or

signal maintenance or construction work groups, who perform duties at various locations

throughout a railroad system, the “establishment” may be at the transient group’s mobile

headquarters or it may be the location where job assignments and postings are made (if the

location is reasonably accessible to employees).
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The railroad is permitted not to post information on an injury or illness only if the employee who

incurred the injury or illness makes a request in writing to the railroad’s reporting officer that his

or her particular injury or illness not be posted. See § 225.25(h)(15).

The posting shall contain, at a minimum, the following information:

1. Name and address of the establishment;

2. Calendar year of the cases being displayed;

3. Incident number used to report case; 

4. Date of the injury or illness;

5. Location of incident;

6. Regular job title of employee injured or ill;

7. Description of the injury or condition;

8. Number of days employee absent from work at time of posting;

9. Number of days of work restriction for employee at time of posting;

10. If fatality--enter date of death; 

11. Annual average number of railroad employees reporting to this

establishment;

12. Preparer’s name, title, telephone number with area code, and

signature (or, in lieu of signing each establishment’s list of

reportable injuries and illnesses, the railroad’s preparer of this

monthly list may sign a cover sheet or memorandum which contains

a list of each railroad establishment for which a monthly list of

reportable injuries and illnesses has been prepared. This cover

memorandum shall be signed by the preparer and shall have

attached to it a duplicate copy of each establishment’s list of

monthly reportable injuries and illnesses. The preparer of the

monthly lists of reportable injuries and illnesses shall mail or send

by facsimile each establishment’s list to the establishment in the

time frame prescribed.)

13. Date the report was completed.
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14. When there are no reportable injuries or occupational illnesses

associated with an establishment for that month, the listing shall

make reference to this fact.

Providing Copy of the Injury/Illness Record ( Log) to Employee. Each railroad shall provide

the employee, upon request, a copy of either the completed Railroad Employee Injury and/or

Illness Record (Form FRA F 6180.98) or the alternative railroad-designed record as described in

the section below as well as a copy of forms or reports required to be maintained or filed under

Part 225 pertaining to that employee's own work-related injury or illness. See § 225.25(c).

Record (Log) of Employee Injuries and Occupational Illness. Under § 225.25, each railroad

shall maintain either the Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record (Form FRA F 6180.98)

or an alternative railroad-designed record of all reportable and all accountable injuries and

illnesses of its employees that arise from the operation of the railroad for each railroad

establishment where such employees report to work, including, but not limited to, an operating

division, general office, and major installation such as a locomotive or car repair or construction

facility. (Note: see § 225.3 and “Applicability” section of this chapter regarding certain small

railroads excepted from requirements regarding “accountables.”)

The alternative railroad-designed record may be used in lieu of the Railroad Employee Injury

and/or Illness Record (Form FRA F 6180.98). Any such alternative record shall contain all of the

information required on the Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record. Although this

information may be displayed in a different order from that on the Railroad Employee Injury

and/or Illness Record, the order of the information shall be consistent from one such record to

another such record. The order chosen by the railroad shall be consistent for each of the railroad's

reporting establishments. Railroads may list additional information on the alternative record

beyond the information required on the Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record. See §

225.25(b).

Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Record. Each railroad shall maintain the Initial Rail

Equipment Accident/Incident Record (Form FRA F 6180.97) or an alternative railroad-designed

record of reportable and accountable collisions, derailments, fires, explosions, acts of God, or

other events involving the operation of railroad on-track equipment, signals, track, or track

equipment (standing or moving) that result in damages to railroad on-track equipment, signals,

tracks, track structures, or roadbed, including labor costs and all other costs for repairs or

replacement in kind for each railroad establishment where workers report to work, including, but

not limited to, an operating division, general office, and major installation such as a locomotive or

car repair or construction facility. See § 225.25(d)-(e). (Note: see § 225.3 and “Applicability”

section of this chapter regarding certain small railroads excepted from requirements regarding

“accountables.”)

The alternative railroad-designed record may be used in lieu of the Initial Rail Equipment

Accident/Incident Record (Form FRA F 6180.97). Any such alternative record shall contain all of
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the information required on the Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Record. Although this

information may be displayed in a different order from that on the Initial Rail Equipment

Accident/Incident Record, the order of the information shall be consistent from one such record to

another such record. The order chosen by the railroad shall be consistent for each of the railroad's

reporting establishments. Railroads may list additional information in the alternative record

beyond the information required on the Initial Rail Equipment Accident/ Incident Record. See §

225.25(e).

When to Prepare Injury/Illness Log and Initial Rail Equipment Report. Each railroad shall

enter each reportable and accountable injury and illness and each reportable and accountable rail

equipment accident/incident on the appropriate record as early as practicable, but no later than

seven working days after receiving information or acquiring knowledge that an injury or illness or

rail equipment accident/incident has occurred. See § 225.25(f).

 

Maintaining the Injury/Illness Log and Initial Rail Equipment Report. The records described

above may be maintained at the local establishment or, alternatively, at a centralized location. If

the records are maintained at a centralized location, but not through electronic means, then a paper

copy of the records that is current within 35 days of the month to which it applies shall be

available for that establishment. If the records are maintained at a centralized location through

electronic means, then the records for that establishment shall be available for review in a hard

copy format within four business hours of FRA's request. FRA recognizes that circumstances

outside the railroad's control may preclude it from fulfilling the four-business-hour time limit. In

these circumstances, FRA will not assess a monetary penalty against the railroad for its failure to

provide the requested documentation provided the railroad made a reasonable effort to correct the

problem. See § 225.25(g).

Telephonic Reports of Certain Accidents/Incidents. Under § 225.9, you must make an

immediate report by toll-free telephone (800-424-0201) whenever an accident/incident results in: 

1. death of a rail passenger; 

2. death of a railroad employee; or 

3. death or injury of five or more persons. 

The report must state the:

1. Name of the reporting railroad;

2. Name, title, and telephone number of person making the report;

3. Time, date, and location of the accident;
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4. Circumstances of the accident/incident;

5. Number of persons killed or injured.

NOTE: FRA’s Locomotive Safety Standards require certain locomotive accidents resulting in

death or serious injury to be reported by telephone at the same toll-free number. See 49 CFR 

§§ 229.3, 229.5 (definition of “serious injury”), and 229.17. In addition, FRA’s regulations on

grade crossing signal system safety require certain railroads to make telephonic reports to the

same toll-free number. See 49 CFR § 234.3 for applicability section and § 234.7 for substantive

section. The latter is discussed below. 

Telephone Reports of Certain Highway-Rail Warning System Failures. Under other FRA

regulations (49 CFR § 234.7), a railroad must provide notification within 24 hours by toll-free

telephone (800-424-0201) for any highway-rail grade crossing accident/incident involving grade

crossing warning activation failure. This report must state the:

1. Name of the railroad;

2. Name, title, and telephone number of person making the report;

3. Time, date, and location of the accident;

4. United States Department of Transportation - Association of

American Railroads (U.S. DOT - AAR) Grade Crossing Identification Number;

5. Circumstances of the accident, including operating details of the

grade crossing warning device;

6. Number of persons killed or injured, if any;

7. Maximum authorized train speed; and

8. Posted highway speed limit, if known.
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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has separate telephonic notification requirements that are

based, in most instances, on accidents/incidents reported to the FRA. The following NTSB requirements are

provided for information purposes.

NTSB defines an "Accident" as any collision, derailment, or explosion involving railroad

trains, locomotives, and cars, or any other loss-causing event involving the operation of

such railroad equipment that results in a fatality to a passenger or in the emergency

evacuation of persons. 

Notify the National Response Center (NRC) within 2 hours if the accident results in:

1. A passenger or employee fatality, or a serious injury to

two or more crewmembers or passengers requiring

admission to a hospital;

2. The evacuation of a passenger train;

3. Damage to a tank car or container resulting in the release

of hazardous materials or involving evacuation of the

general public; or,

4. A fatality at a grade crossing.

Notify the NRC within 4 hours if the accident does not meet the above criteria, but results in:

1. Damage estimated at $150,000 or more in repairs (or

current replacement cost) to railroad or nonrailroad

property; or,

2. Damage of $25,000 or more to a passenger train

including railroad and nonrailroad property.

Notification Procedure. Telephone the NRC duty officer toll free at 800-424-0201 and provide the

following information:

1. Name and title of person making report.

2. Name of the railroad.

3. Description of the accident.

4. Casualties--number of fatalities and injuries.

5. Name and telephone number of person from whom

additional information may be obtained.

Further guidance can be obtained by contacting NTSB on 202-314-6435.
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See 49 CFR Part 840 for relevant NTSB regulations. 

Record Retention. See § 225.27. Each railroad shall retain the Railroad Employee Injury and/or

Illness Record [or alternative log as specified in § 225.25] and the Monthly List of Injuries and

Illnesses required by § 225.25 for at least five years after the end of the calendar year to which

they relate. 

Each railroad shall retain the Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Record

[or alternative record as specified in 49 CFR § 225.25] for at least two years after the end of the

calendar year to which it relates. 

A copy of all monthly accident/incident reports forwarded to FRA and employee statements

received by the railroad in connection with human factor caused train accidents must be retained

for at least two years following the calendar year to which they apply.

Public Examination and Use of Reports. See § 225.7. The FRA, on a written request basis, will

provide copies, generate computer printouts of reports on file, or provide data on magnetic media. 

A fee may be charged to cover expenses. Requests are to be mailed to:

Freedom of Information Officer

Office of Chief Counsel

Federal Railroad Administration

400 Seventh Street, S.W.

Washington, D.C. 20590

Note: Under 49 U.S.C. § 20903, monthly reports filed by railroads under the

accident/incident reporting requirement may not be admitted as evidence or used

for any purpose in any action for damages growing out of any matters mentioned in

these monthly reports.

Paperwork Reduction Act Statement. The Federal Railroad Administration may not conduct or

sponsor, and the respondent is not required to respond to, an information collection that has been

extended, revised, or implemented on or after October 1, 1995, unless it displays a currently valid

OMB control number. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, the information

collection requirements contained in 49 CFR Part 225 have been approved by the Office of

Management and Budget (OMB) and assigned OMB approval number 2130-0500. The latest

paperwork notice was published December 24, 1996, in the Federal Register. 61 Fed. Reg.

67868. The information collection requirement contained in § 225.25(h)(15) has not yet been

approved by OMB. Once OMB approval is received, the OMB control number for this

requirement will be published in the Federal Register.
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The time needed to complete and file the information collection requirements will vary by size of

the railroads involved and the number of accidents experienced by each railroad. The sections 

that contain the new and/or revised information collection requirements and the estimated average 

time to fulfill each requirement are as follows:

49 CFR 225 Estimated

 Section Brief Description Average Time

225.9 Telephone Reports of Certain Accidents/Incidents 15 min. per call

225.12 Form FRA F 6180.81 - Employee Human Factor Attachment 15 min. per report

225.21 (f)

225.12(g)(2) Railroad Review of Employee Statement 5.5 hrs. per review

225.12(g)(3) Employee Confidential Letter 2 hrs. per letter 

225.17 Doubtful cases and Refusals to be Tested; Alcohol or 15 min. per report

Drug Involvement

225.19(b) Form FRA F 6180.57 - Highway-Rail Grade Crossing 4 hrs. per report 

225.21(e) Accident/Incident Report

225.19 (c) Form FRA F 6180.54 - Rail Equipment Accident/ 2 hrs. per report

225.21(a) Incident Report

225.19(d) Form FRA F 6180.55a - Railroad Injury and Illness 10 min. per casualty

225.21(c) Summary (Continuation Sheet)

225.21(b) Form FRA F 6180.55 - Railroad Injury and Illness 45 min. per report

Summary 

225.21(d) Form FRA F 6180.56 - Annual Railroad Report of 3 hrs. per report

Manhours and Casualties by State

225.21(g) Part I - Form FRA F 6180.78 - Notice to Railroad Employee 15 min. per report

Involved in Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Attributed 

to Employee Human Factor

Part II - Employee Statement Supplementing Railroad 2 hrs. per report

Accident Report

225.21(h) Form FRA F 6180.98 - Railroad Employee Injury and/or 30 min. per casualty

225.25(a) Illness Record

225.21(i) Form FRA F 6180.97 - Initial Rail Equipment Accident/ 30 min. per record 

225.25(b) Incident Record
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225.23 Railroad Consultation in Joint Operations 1 hr. per accident

 Accidents/Incidents

225.25(c) Copy of Railroad Worker Injury 2 min.

and Illness Log to Worker 

225.25(h) Monthly List of Injuries and Illnesses 5 hrs (Class I RR) per monthly list

45 min. (RR with 400,000

manhours or more excluding Class

I RR) per monthly list

10 min. (RR with less than

400,000 manhours) per monthly

list

225.25(h)(15) Written Request that the Injury or Illness not be Posted 1 hr. per request (30 min. 

employee/30 min.

Railroad)

225.33(a) Internal Control Plans 32 hrs. (Class I RR) per plan

54 hrs. (2 RR’s) per plan

14 hrs. (48 RR’s) per plan

.5 hr. (433 RR’s) less than 15

employees

20 hrs. (RR with 400,000

manhours or more excluding Class

I RR) per plan

1.75 hrs. (RR with less than

400,000 manhours) per plan

225.33 Amendments to Internal Control Plans 1 hr. per amendment

225.37(b)(2) FRA F Form 6180.99 - Batch Control Form 10 min. per form

225.37(c)(1)

These estimates include time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering

and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. 

Send comments regarding these burden estimates or any other aspect of this collection of

information, including suggestions for reducing burdens, to the Office of Safety, Federal Railroad

Administration, 400 Seventh Street, S.W., Washington D.C. 20590; and to the Office of

Management and Budget, Attention: Desk Officer for the Federal Railroad Administration (OMB

No. 2130-0500), Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Washington, D. C. 20503. 
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E. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q1. Did the revisions that become effective on January 1, 1997, other than an adjustment for

reporting rail equipment accidents/incidents, change any of the criteria that make an

accident/incident reportable to the FRA? Are there any new situations that we need to

report, or have any events been excepted from reporting? 

A1. No. In order to accurately display accident/incident trends, it is critical to retain a constant

definition of the events to be reported. These basic criteria have remained unchanged

since the inception of the current reporting rules in 1975. For example, occupational

illnesses of additional classes of persons are still not reportable, specifically, persons

classified as Worker on Duty--Contractor and Worker on Duty--Volunteer. See §225.19(d).

Q2. Why were the changes made?

A2. They were initiated primarily to increase confidence that a complete and accurate record

of reportable accidents/incidents is being maintained and to address other concerns. The

forms designed in 1975 remained unchanged for 22 years and needed some minor updating

to capture data on current needs. In order to reduce recordkeeping burdens, we have

authorized the transmittal of accident/incident reports by alternate media, e.g., tapes,

diskettes, electronic transfer. We have provided better access to accident/incident data to

employees that will allow them to more actively participate in the reporting process, and

thereby, assist in improving reporting accuracy. Similarly, we have made it a corporate

responsibility that an Internal Control Plan (ICP) be in place that will enable the reporting

officer to have access to information in other departments that are necessary for making

reporting decisions.

Q3. We are required to post a listing of all reported injuries and occupational illnesses to

employees at that establishment. Although this listing does not contain personal identifiers,

e.g., names, Social Security Numbers, it may be possible to ascertain the identity of the

person, particularly in small establishments based on the information listed. There may be

conditions that are reportable, for which the employee, or the railroad, is especially

sensitive about displaying in such a fashion. Are there any exceptions to this requirement?

A3. Yes. The purpose of this listing is to raise the awareness of employees at the establishment

of the hazards that exist in the workplace, and to include the employees in the reporting

process. It was not our intent, nor do we desire, to have conditions that an employee

would prefer to keep confidential displayed on this listing. New 

§ 225.25(h)(15) permits a railroad not to post any injury or illness reported to FRA if the

railroad’s reporting officer receives a written request from the injured or ill employee that

the information not be posted.
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Q4. Are we required to maintain the information required by this regulation at and for each

individual location where employees report to work in a large facility, such as, a major

yard?

A4. No. We have always exercised a certain amount of flexibility concerning the locations

where these records must be kept. We do not require that separate records be maintained

for the various distinct activities that take place in a large facility. Work locations that are

near each other can be treated as a single establishment when they are part of a larger

facility at that location. Permanent work sites that are physically distant from each other,

e.g., in another city, are separate establishments and are covered by the term "single

physical location" contained in the reporting guide.

These records may be maintained at the local establishment or, alternatively, at a

centralized location. Under §§ 225.25(g) and 225.35, each railroad shall have at least one

location, and shall identify each location, where any representative of the Federal Railroad

Administration or of a State agency participating in investigative and surveillance

activities or any other authorized representative, has centralized access to a copy of any

record and report required under Part 225, for examination and photocopying in a

reasonable manner during normal business hours. In addition, railroads must provide such

representatives with access to relevant medical and claims records for examination and

photocopying in a reasonable manner during normal business hours. Such representatives

shall display proper credentials when requested. Each railroad shall identify the locations

where a copy of any record and report required under this part is accessible for inspection

and photocopying by maintaining a list of such establishment locations at the office where

the railroad's reporting officer conducts his or her official business. A copy of any record

and report required under this part shall be accessible within four business hours after the

request. FRA will not assess a monetary penalty against the railroad for its failure to

provide the requested documentation when circumstances outside the railroad's control

preclude it from fulfilling the four-business-hour time limit and the railroad has made a

reasonable effort to correct the problem.

Q5. Are there any particular forms that must be used to record this information?

A5. For recording an injury or illness for a railroad employee, either the Railroad Employee

Injury and/or Illness Record (Form FRA F 6180.98), or an alternative railroad record can

be used. If the alternative record is used, the regulation states that it "shall contain all of

the information required on the Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record." See 

§ 225.25(d)-(e).

For initially recording a rail equipment accident/incident, either the Initial Rail Equipment

Accident/Incident Record (Form FRA F 6180.97) or an alternative railroad-designed

record can be used. If the alternative record is used, the regulation states that it "shall
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contain all of the information required on the Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident

Record." § 225.25(e).

Q6. I currently maintain a database of all conditions reported by employees, passengers and

others, regardless of severity or consequences. A lot of these injuries require no

treatment, or only need first aid. I document every potential case, just in case it later

becomes reportable. Will the requirement to record entries involving employees on the

Form FRA F 6180.98, or an alternative railroad-designed form, make it necessary for me

to have two logs, one for "accountable" injuries to employees and a separate record for

others? If possible, I would like to consolidate all of my records into a single file.

A6. No, the alternative railroad-designed record may be used to record the additional

information described. The regulation only requires that you maintain certain information

about your employees which FRA inspectors may ask to see in order to verify compliance. 

For example, the regulation does not require that Form F 6180.98 contain information

about contractors or volunteers. You may include records for any class of person in your

file, and you may also include additional information beyond that required. To avoid any

confusion of those entries that are required by the regulation, and additional records you

may choose to include in your file, there must be a means of identifying the two categories 

incorporated in your system design.

These same general guidelines also apply for alternative railroad-designed Initial Rail

Equipment Accident/Incident Record described in Chapter 5.

Q7. Does this mean we can maintain this information in a computer file? If so, what are the

requirements for centralized processing of this data?

A7. Yes, since the regulation allows these records to be maintained ". . . at a centralized

location." It is possible to prepare and maintain the information at an alternate location or

by means of data processing equipment, or both. 

Railroads that centralize the processing of this information (but not electronically) must, at

a minimum, have a copy of records present at each establishment for the injuries and

illnesses that occurred at that establishment that is current to within 35 days of the month to

which it applies. See § 225.25(g). 

Q8. We are the contract carrier for a number of commuter operations. In the past, we have

included accidents/incidents that occurred in connection with these operations in the counts

for our own railroad. Can you briefly describe what the reporting requirements are in

these situations?

A8. As a railroad subject to Part 225, each commuter railroad must report individually using an

identifier unique to that operation. If you are operating a commuter service under contract,
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all accident/incident information associated with that operation must be reported under the

reporting marks of that commuter railroad. This includes all operational data, e.g., train

miles, employee hours, passengers transported, passenger train miles. All accountable and

reportable accidents/incidents that occur in connection with this operation are to be

recorded under the initials assigned to that operation. In order to identify when your

employees are hurt while engaged in these operations, the reporting initials of your

railroad must appear as the first portion of the incident number for the commuter railroad. 

For example, the commuter railroad is assigned the code AAAA, and your railroad initials

are XXXX. One of your employees is hurt while operating train for AAAA. Railroad

AAAA will submit a report that contains an entry on Form FRA F 6180.55a that has an

accident/incident number beginning with XXXX and followed by additional numbers or

letters that make the incident number unique for the month, e.g., XXXX12345A.

When submitting the accident/incident report for your railroad, you must exclude all

operational data and accidents/incidents that have been reported for the entity that you are

under contract to. Using the example above, you would omit this injury on your railroad's

report, since it was included on the report for the commuter railroad.
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Chapter 2 - Page 1 DEFINITIONS

CHAPTER 2 - DEFINITIONS

Sections 225.5 and 225.19 contain definitions of various key terms used in FRA’s

accident/incident reporting regulations. This Guide repeats or elaborates on the definitions found

in those sections and defines additional terms used in the FRA accident reporting context.

Accident/Incident. The term used to describe the entire list of reportable events. These include:

fatalities, injuries, and illnesses; collisions, derailments, and similar accidents involving the

operation of on-track equipment causing reportable damage above an established threshold; and

impacts between railroad on-track equipment and highway users at crossings.

Accidents/incidents are further categorized as:

Train Accident. Any collision, derailment, fire, explosion, act of God, or other

event involving the operation of on-track equipment (standing or moving) that

results in total damages to all railroads involved in the event that is greater than the

current reporting threshold to railroad on-track equipment, signals, track, track

structures, and roadbed. (Refer to Chapter 7, which is about rail equipment

accident/incident reporting--Form FRA F 6180.54.)

Note: The classification of a train accident by type (collision, derailment,

other) is determined by the first reportable event in the accident

sequence. All reports for a single accident are to use the same

designation. For example, if following a derailment a train strikes a

consist on an adjacent track, the report for this additional consist

will indicate that the accident type was a derailment, not a collision.

Train Incident. An event involving the movement of on-track equipment that

results in a reportable casualty but does not cause reportable damage above the

threshold established for train accidents.

Non-train Incident. An event that results in a reportable casualty, but does not

involve the movement of on-track equipment nor cause reportable damage above

the threshold established for train accidents.

Accountable injury or illness, as interpreted by FRA, means any condition, not otherwise

reportable, of a railroad employee that is associated with an event, exposure, or activity in the

work environment that causes or requires the employee to be examined or treated by a qualified

health care professional. Such treatment would usually occur at a location other than the work

environment; however, it may be provided at any location, including the work site. The following

is an example of an accountable illness. Employee A is diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB). While

at work, employee B came into frequent close contact with employee A. Fearing he may have

contracted TB, employee B is tested for TB by a qualified health care professional (QHCP). The
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Chapter 2 - Page 2 DEFINITIONS

TB test for employee B is negative. Employee B’s case would be an accountable illness because

1) employee B alleged that he had an illness that was 2) work related and 3) employee B was

exposed at work (frequent close contact with employee A) and 4) employee B was examined by a

QHCP. The fact that the TB test was negative is irrelevant for purposes of logging an accountable

illness.

Accountable rail equipment accident/incident means any event not otherwise reportable,

involving the operation of on-track equipment that causes physical damage to either the on-track

equipment or the track upon which such equipment was operated and that requires the removal or

repair of rail equipment from the track before any rail operations over the track can continue. An

accountable rail equipment accident/incident, if not tended to, thus would disrupt railroad service. 

Examples of "disruption of service" would include: loss of main track; one or more derailed

wheels; any train failing to arrive or depart at its scheduled time; one or more cars or locomotives

taken out of service; or rerouting trains due to a damaged car or locomotive. For purposes of

recording accountable events, the "disruption of service" must be a consequence of an event, e.g.,

collision or derailment.

Arising from the operation of a railroad includes all activities of a railroad that are related to the

performance of its rail transportation business.

Casualty. A reportable death, injury, or illness arising from the operation of a railroad. 

Casualties may be classified as either fatal or nonfatal.

Fatality. An event resulting in death of one or more persons. If death occurs

subsequent to the filing of the monthly report, then the injury or illness must be

reclassified as fatal. See § 225.13.

Injury. Harm to a person resulting from a single event, activity, occurrence, or

exposure of short duration.

Occupational illness, as interpreted by FRA, means any abnormal condition or

disorder, of any person who falls under the definition for the classification of

Worker on Duty--Employee, other than one resulting from injury, caused by

environmental factors associated with the person's railroad employment, including,

but not limited to, acute or chronic illnesses or diseases that may be caused by

inhalation, absorption, ingestion, or direct contact.

The term event includes occurrences which can be identified in terms of a specific

time and those of a continuing or intermittent nature which can be identified only in

terms of a probable time or activity. 
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Classification of Persons.

Worker on Duty--Employee (Class A). An individual who receives direct

monetary compensation from the railroad. Whether or not the worker is under pay

will normally be the deciding factor for determining "on duty" status.

Note: An employee in deadhead transportation is considered an

"employee on duty" regardless of the mode of transportation. 

Deadhead transportation occurs when an employee is traveling at

the direction or authorization of the carrier to or from an assignment,

or the employee is involved with a means of conveyance furnished

by the carrier or compensated for by the carrier.

Exception:

If an employee is housed by the carrier in a facility such as a motel,

and part of the service provided by the motel is the transportation of

the employee to and from the work site, any reportable injury to the

employee during such transit is to be recorded as that to an

employee not on duty (Class B). Likewise, if the employee had

decided upon other means of transportation that had not been

authorized or provided, and for which he would not have been

compensated by the railroad, the injury is not considered to be an

on-duty injury.

Employee Not On Duty (Class B). An individual who receives direct monetary

compensation from the railroad and who is on railroad property for purposes

connected with his or her employment or with other railroad permission but is not

"on duty ".

Worker on Duty--Contractor (Class F) is an employee of a contractor for a

railroad who does not receive direct monetary compensation from the railroad and

who, while on railroad property, is engaged in either (i) the operation of on-track

equipment or (ii) any other safety-sensitive function for the railroad as defined in §

209.303.

Section 209.303 of title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations describes "safetysensitive functions" as applying to the following individuals:

(a) Railroad employees who are assigned to perform service subject to the

Hours of Service Act (45 U.S.C. 61-64b) during a duty tour, whether or not
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Chapter 2 - Page 4 DEFINITIONS

the person has performed or is currently performing such service, and any

person who performs such service;

(b) Railroad employees or agents who:

(1) Inspect, install, repair, or maintain track and roadbed;

(2) Inspect, repair, or maintain, locomotives, passenger cars,

and freight cars;

(3) Conduct training and testing of employees when the training

or testing is required by the FRA's safety regulations; or

(c) Railroad managers, supervisors, or agents when they:

(1) Perform the safety-sensitive functions listed

in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section;

(2) Supervise and otherwise direct the

performance of the safety-sensitive functions

listed in paragraph (a) and (b) of this section;

or

(3) Are in a position to direct the commission of

violations of any of the requirements of parts

213 through 236 of this title.

Note that there have been amendments and additions to the set of

railroad safety regulations found in the Code of Federal

Regulations; thus, "safety-sensitive functions" in § 209.303(c)(3) is

interpreted to include railroad managers, supervisors, etc., when

they are in a position to direct the commission of violations of any

of the requirements of parts 213 through 240 of title 49 of the Code

of Federal Regulations. 

Hours worked by persons in the Class F, G, H and I categories are not reported on any

FRA form.

Contractor--Other (Class G). A contractor employee for a railroad who does not

receive direct monetary compensation from the railroad and who is not engaged in either
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Chapter 2 - Page 5 DEFINITIONS

(i) the operation of on-track equipment or (ii) any other safety-sensitive function for the

railroad. Hours worked by this person are similarly not reported on any FRA form.

Worker on Duty--Volunteer (Class H) is a volunteer who does not receive direct

monetary compensation from the railroad and who is engaged in either (i) the

operation of on-track equipment or (ii) any other safety-sensitive function for the

railroad as defined in § 209.303. (See this list under "Worker on Duty--

Contractor".)

Hours worked by a "Worker on Duty--Volunteer" (Class H) are not

reported on any form.

Volunteer--Other (Class I). A volunteer who does not receive direct monetary

compensation from the railroad and who is not engaged in either (i) the operation of

on-track equipment or (ii) any other safety-sensitive function for the railroad as

defined in § 209.303. Hours worked by this person also are not reported on any

FRA form.

Passengers On Trains (Class C). Persons who are on, boarding, or alighting from

railroad cars for the purpose of travel.

Nontrespassers--On Railroad Property (Class D). Persons lawfully on that part

of railroad property that is used in railroad operation (other than those herein

defined as employees, passengers, trespassers, volunteers, or contractor

employees), and persons adjacent to railroad premises when they are injured as the

result of the operation of a railroad. This class also includes other persons on

vessels or buses, whose use arises from the operation of a railroad.

Nontrespassers--Off Railroad Property (Class J). An injury "off railroad

property" includes an injury resulting from an event, such as a derailment or

collision, that begins on railroad property but ends on public or private nonrailroad property, so long as the injury is incurred while the person is physically

located off railroad property. Similarly, if a derailment results in a release of

hazardous materials onto public or private non-railroad property and the hazardous

material injures a "Nontrespasser" located on public or private non-railroad

property, the injury is reported as an injury to "Nontrespassers--Off Railroad

Property" (Class J). Conversely, injuries to nontrespassers occurring while on

public or private railroad property are reported as injuries to "Nontrespassers--On

Railroad Property" (Class D). 
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Chapter 2 - Page 6 DEFINITIONS

Trespassers (Class E). Persons who are on that part of railroad property used in

railroad operation and whose presence is prohibited, forbidden, or unlawful.

Employees who are trespassing on railroad property are to be reported as

“Trespassers” (Class E).

Note: A person on a highway-rail crossing should not be classified as a trespasser

unless the crossing is protected by gates, or other similar barriers that were

closed when the person went on the crossing, or unless the person attempted

to pass over, under, or between cars or locomotives of a consist occupying

the crossing.

Consist Responsibility. The railroad employing the crew members operating the consist at the

time of the accident normally determines the consist owner for reporting purposes. An exception

to this rule is when a railroad is under contract to operate another railroad on an ongoing basis. 

This situation often exists in connection with commuter operations where the entity is known to the

general public as the commuter authority, not the railroad under contract (see question Q8 and

answer A8 in Chapter 1 for additional guidance).

Collision. A collision is defined as an impact between on-track equipment consists while both are

on rails and where one of the consists is operating under train movement rules or is subject to the

protection afforded to trains. This definition includes instances where a portion of a consist

occupying a siding is fouling the main line and is struck by an approaching train. It does not

include impacts occurring while switching within yards, as in making up or breaking up trains,

shifting or setting out cars, etc. Impacts of this type are to be classified as "Other Impacts"

accidents (Code "12" in item 7 on form 6180.54) when all consists involved are part of the

switching movement).

The time table, or schedule direction, should govern the classification of collisions when either

one of the trains or the locomotives is at rest, or when its incidental movement temporarily differs

from the schedule direction.

 

Head-on collision. A collision in which the trains or locomotives involved are

traveling in opposite directions on the same track.

Rear-end collision. A collision in which the trains or locomotives involved are

traveling in the same direction on the same track.

Side collision. A collision at a turnout where one consist strikes the side of another

consist.
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Raking collision. A collision between parts or lading of a consist on an adjacent

track, or with a structure such as a bridge.

Broken train collision. A collision in which a moving train breaks into parts and

an impact occurs between these parts, or when a portion of the broken train

collides with another consist.

Note: The several parts of a broken train are not to be treated as separate consists

for reporting purposes. Information concerning such trains are to be

reported on a single form.

Railroad crossing collision. A collision between on-track railroad equipment at a

point where tracks intersect.

Costs and Reportable Damage.

Reporting Threshold. The amount of total reportable damage resulting from a

train accident which, if exceeded, requires the preparation and forwarding of form

FRA F 6180.54 by the railroads involved. For accidents occurring in calendar

years 1991-1996, the reporting threshold is $6,300. For accidents that occur in

calendar year 1997, the reporting threshold is $6,500. See 61 Fed. Reg. 60632

(Nov. 29, 1996). Pursuant to § 225.19(e), the reporting threshold will be revised

annually according to the formula set forth in Appendix B to Part 225.

Reportable Damage. Reportable damage includes labor costs and all other costs

to repair or replace in kind damaged on-track equipment, signals, track, track

structures, or roadbed. Reportable damage does not include the cost of clearing a

wreck; however, additional damage to the above listed items caused while clearing

the wreck is to be included in your damage estimate.

Examples of other costs included in reportable damage are: (1) rental and/or

operation of machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, including the services of

contractors, to replace or repair the track right-of-way and associated structures;

and (2) costs associated with the repair or replacement of roller bearings on units

that were derailed or submerged in water. (Replacement costs include the labor

costs resulting from a wheel set change out.)

Equipment Damage. All costs, including labor and material, associated with the

repair or replacement in kind of on-track rail equipment. Trailers/containers on

flat cars are considered to be lading and damage to these is not to be included in
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on-track equipment damage. Damage to a flat car carrying a trailer/container is to

be included in reportable damage. 

When on-track equipment is damaged beyond repair, the total reproduction cost of

the equipment, including betterments and additions, is to be calculated in

accordance with Rule 107 of the current edition of the field manual of the AAR

Interchange Rules. The total reproduction cost may be depreciated to reflect the

amount of usage to which the equipment has been subjected. Depreciation

percentages will be determined at 3% annually for a maximum of 30 years;

equipment over 30 years old will be valued at 10% of the total reproduction cost. 

Replacement-in-kind cost for equipment damaged beyond repair is the result of

these calculations.

Track Damage. All costs, including labor and material, associated with the repair

or replacement in kind of signals, track, track structures (including bridges or

tunnels) or roadbeds that were damaged in a collision, derailment or other

reportable event. 

When track, signals, structures, etc., are damaged beyond repair, the current cost of

new materials is to be used. However, replacement of secondhand rail with

secondhand rail, may be charged at the current cost of such rail.

When estimating damage costs, the labor costs to be reported are only the direct

labor costs to the railroad, e.g., hourly wages, transportation costs, and hotel

expenses. The cost of fringe benefits is excluded when calculating direct labor

costs. Overhead is also excluded when calculating damage costs due to the

unacceptable non-uniform treatment of overhead under the current process.

For services performed by a contractor, a direct hourly labor cost is calculated by

multiplying the contractor's total labor hours charged to the railroad by the

applicable direct hourly wage rate for a railroad worker in that particular craft. 

However, if a railroad cannot match the equivalent craft to the labor hours spent by

a contractor, then the railroad must use the loaded rate, i.e., the cost by hour for

labor, fringe benefits, and other costs and fees for services charged by the

contractor for the tasks associated with the repair of the track, equipment, and

structures due to the train accident.

 

Day away from work is any day subsequent to the day of the injury or diagnosis of occupational

illness that a railroad employee does not report to work for reasons associated with his or her

condition.
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Day of restricted work activity is any day that an employee is restricted (as defined in "Lost

Workdays and Type of Lost Workdays") in his or her job following the day of the injury or

diagnosis of occupational illness.

Derailment. A derailment occurs when on-track equipment leaves the rail for a reason other than

a collision, explosion, highway-rail crossing impact, etc.

Drug/Alcohol Test. A test is a physical or chemical reaction by which a substance may be

detected or its properties ascertained, and includes both Federal and employer-authorized tests to

determine alcohol or drug usage. A test performed under Federal (FRA) requirements is

considered positive when the test result has been verified as positive by a Medical Review

Officer and reported to the employer. A test performed under other authorization is considered

positive when the employer will defend the results if legally challenged. (Refer to 49 CFR Part

219, Control of Alcohol and Drug Use, for additional information.) 

Employee human factor includes any of the accident causes signified by the train accident cause

codes listed under "Train Operation--Human Factors" in the current "FRA Guide for Preparing

Accidents/Incidents Reports," except for those train accident cause codes pertaining to nonrailroad workers. For purposes of this definition, "employee" includes the classifications of

Worker on Duty--Employee, Employee not on Duty, Worker on Duty--Contractor, and Worker on

Duty--Volunteer.

Establishment means a single physical location where employees report to work, where railroad

business is conducted, or where services or operations are performed. Examples are: a division

office, general office, repair or maintenance facility, major switching yard or terminal. For

employees who are engaged in dispersed operations, such as signal or track maintenance

employees, an "establishment" is typically a location where work assignments are initially made

and oversight responsibility exists, e.g., the establishment where the signal supervisor or

roadmaster is located.

First aid treatment means treatment limited to simple procedures used to treat minor conditions,

such as abrasions, cuts, bruises, and splinters. First aid treatment is typically confined to a single

treatment and does not require special skills or procedures.

FRA representative means the Associate Administrator for Safety, FRA; the Associate

Administrator's delegate (including a qualified State inspector acting under 49 CFR Part 212); the

Chief Counsel, FRA; or the Chief Counsel's delegate.

Hazardous Material. A substance or material, including a hazardous substance, which has been

determined by the Secretary of Transportation to be capable of posing an unreasonable risk to

health, safety, and property when transported in commerce, and which has been so designated. 
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Hazardous Material Residue. The hazardous material remaining in a packaging, including a tank

car, after its contents have been unloaded to the maximum extent practicable and before the

packaging is either refilled or cleaned of hazardous material and purged to remove any hazardous

vapors. 

Additional guidance concerning Federal requirements as to the identification and

shipment of hazardous material can be found in 49 CFR Parts 100 to 180.

Highway-rail grade crossing means a location where a public highway, road, street, or private

roadway, including associated sidewalks and pathways, crosses one or more railroad tracks at

grade.

Joint operations means rail operations conducted on a track used jointly or in common by two or

more railroads subject to this part or operation of a train, locomotive, car, or other on-track

equipment by one railroad over the track of another railroad. 

Lost Workdays and Type of Lost Workdays.

Day away from work. Any day (consecutive or not) following the date of injury

or diagnosis of occupational illness that a railroad employee does not report to

work for reasons connected with a reportable injury or occupational illness.

Restriction of Work. The inability of a railroad employee to perform all normally

assigned duties of his or her regular job following an injury or occupational illness. 

It includes the temporary assignment to another job, being placed on restricted

duties, or when the employee worked less than full time at a regular job.

Day of Restricted Activity. Any day or part of a day (consecutive or not) that a

railroad employee is restricted (as defined above) at work for reasons connected

with a reportable injury or occupational illness.

Lost Workday. Any full day or part of a day (consecutive or not) that a railroad

employee is either absent from work or is restricted while at work as a result of a

reportable injury or illness.

Medical treatment includes any medical care or treatment beyond "first aid" regardless of who

provides such treatment. Medical treatment does not include diagnostic procedures, such as 

X-rays and drawing blood samples. Medical treatment also does not include preventive emotional

trauma counseling provided by the railroad's employee counseling and assistance officer unless

the participating worker has been diagnosed as having a mental disorder that was significantly
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caused or aggravated by an accident/incident and this condition requires a regimen of treatment to

correct.

Miles Traveled.

Passenger-mile. The movement of a passenger for a distance of one mile.

Train-mile. The movement of a train for a distance of one mile. Mileage is not to

be increased because of the presence of multiple locomotives in the train. (See

definition of “train”.)

Yard Switching Train-Mile. May be computed at the rate of 6 mph for the time

actually engaged in yard switching service (or any other method that will yield a

more accurate count) if actual mileage is not known.

Operation of a railroad. Inclusive term used to describe all activities of a railroad related to the

performance of its rail transportation business. 

Other Accidents.

Highway-Rail Crossing Accident/Incident. An impact between on-track railroad

equipment and a highway user (e.g., an automobile, bus, truck, motorcycle, bicycle,

farm vehicle, pedestrian or other highway user) at a designated crossing site. 

Sidewalks, pathways, shoulders and ditches associated with the crossing are

considered to be part of the crossing site. The term "highway user" includes

pedestrians, cyclists, and all other modes of surface transportation.

Note: Casualties resulting from highway-rail crossing impacts may also be

categorized as train accidents, train incidents, and non-train incidents.

Obstruction accident. An accident/incident in which a consist strikes: (1) a

bumping post or a foreign object on the track right-of-way; (2) a highway vehicle at

a location other than a highway-rail crossing site; (3) derailed equipment; or (4) a

track motorcar or similar work equipment not equipped with AAR couplers, and

not operating under train rules.

Explosion-Detonation. An accident/incident caused by the detonation of material

carried by or transported by rail. A detonation occurs when a shock wave exceeds

the speed of sound. Explosions-detonations resulting from mishaps during loading
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or unloading operations, and those caused by fire aboard on-track equipment are

included in this definition.

Fire or violent rupture. An accident/incident caused by combustion or violent

release of material carried by or transported by rail. Examples of this type include: 

fuel and electrical equipment fires; crankcase explosions; and violent release of

liquefied petroleum gas or anhydrous ammonia.

Other impacts. An accident/incident, not classified as a collision, that involves 

contact between on-track equipment. Generally, these involve single cars or cuts of

cars that are damaged during switching, train makeup, setting out, etc., operations. 

If both consists contain a locomotive, the event should be classified as a collision

between trains.

Other accidents/incidents. Events not classified as one of the preceding types. 

On-Track Rail Equipment.

Equipment consist. An equipment consist is a train, locomotive(s), cut of cars, or

a single car not coupled to another car or locomotive. 

Car. A car is: 

(1) any unit of on-track equipment designed to be hauled by

locomotives, or 

(2) any unit of on-track work equipment such as a track motorcar,

highway-rail vehicle, push car, crane, or ballast tamping machine.

Locomotive. A locomotive is a piece of on-track equipment, other than hi-rail or

specialized maintenance equipment,

(1) With one or more propelling motors designed for moving other

equipment;

(2) With one or more propelling motors designed to carry freight or

passenger traffic, or both; or

(3) Without propelling motors but with one or more control stands.
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Motorcar. A self-propelled unit of equipment, designed to carry freight or

passenger traffic. (Does not include track motor cars or similar work equipment.)

Train. For purposes of accident/incident reporting, a train is a locomotive or locomotives

coupled with or without cars, and with or without markers displayed. This definition

includes trains consisting entirely of self-propelled units designed to carry passengers,

freight traffic, or both.

Yard switching trains. Those trains operated primarily within yards for the

purpose of switching other equipment. Examples include the making up or breaking

up of trains, service industrial tracks within yard limits, storing or classifying cars,

and other similar operations.

Note: Switching performed by a road crew that is incidental to the road operation

is not included.

Work train. Work trains are non-revenue trains used for the administration and

upkeep service of the railroad. Examples are: official trains; inspection trains;

special trains running with company fire apparatus to save the railroad's property

from destruction; trains that transport the railroad's employees to and from work

when no transportation charge is made; construction and upkeep trains run in

connection with maintenance and improvement work; and material and supply

trains run in connection with operations.

Person includes all categories of entities covered under 1 U.S.C. § 1, including, but not limited to,

a railroad; any manager, supervisor, official, or other employee or agent of a railroad; any owner,

manufacturer, lessor, or lessee of railroad equipment, track, or facilities; any passenger; any

trespasser or nontrespasser; any independent contractor providing goods or services to a railroad;

any volunteer providing goods or services to a railroad; and any employee of such owner,

manufacturer, lessor, lessee, or independent contractor.

Prescription Medication. Those substances whose availability and distribution are controlled by

registered medical professionals such as doctors, pharmacists, or nurses, and that are

manufactured and packaged with the legend: "Caution--Federal Law Prohibits Dispensing Without

Prescription:” or similar warning.

Preventive treatment. A treatment is considered preventive only when there is no work-related

injury or illness prior to its use. A treatment may not be defined as preventive and is instead

defined as precautionary when given to stop an existing work-related condition from becoming

worse. See Ch. 6, P. 9, of Guide.
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Qualified health care professional is a health care professional operating within the scope of his

or her license, registration, or certification. For example, an otolaryngologist is qualified to

diagnose a case of noise-induced hearing loss and identify potential causal factors, but may not be

qualified to diagnose a case of repetitive motion injuries. In addition to licensed physicians, the

term “qualified health care professional” includes members of other occupations associated with

patient care and treatment such as chiropractors, podiatrists, physician’s assistants, psychologists,

and dentists.

Railroad means a person providing railroad transportation.

Railroad transportation means any form of non-highway ground transportation that run on rails or

electro-magnetic guideways, including (1) commuter or other short-haul railroad passenger

service in a metropolitan or suburban area, as well as any commuter railroad service that was

operated by the Consolidated Rail Corporation as of January 1, 1979, and (2) high speed ground

transportation systems that connect metropolitan areas, without regard to whether they use new

technologies not associated with traditional railroads. Such term does not include rapid transit

operations within an urban area that are not connected to the general railroad system of

transportation.

Tracks and Types of Tracks.

Main track. A track, other than an auxiliary track, extending through yards or

between stations, upon which trains are operated by time table or train order or

both, or the use of which is governed by a signal system.

Industry track. A switching track, or series of tracks, serving the needs of a

commercial industry other than a railroad.

Siding. A track auxiliary to the main track used for meeting or passing trains.

Yard track. A system of tracks within defined limits used for the making up or

breaking up of trains, for the storing of cars, and for other purposes over which

movements not authorized by time table or by train order may be made, subject to

prescribed signals, rules or other special instructions. Sidings and industry tracks

are not included, nor is main line within yard limits.

Work environment is the physical location, equipment, materials processed or used, and

activities of a railroad employee associated with his or her work, whether on or off the railroad's

property. There are no stated exclusions of place or circumstance.
DEFINITIONS - Continued

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Chapter 2 - Page 15 DEFINITIONS

Work related means related to any incident, activity, exposure, or the like occurring within the

work environment.
DEFINITIONS - Continued

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Chapter 3 - Page 1 F 6180.55

CHAPTER 3 - FORM FRA F 6180.55

Railroad Injury and Illness Summary

A. REQUIREMENT

Form FRA F 6180.55, entitled “Railroad Injury and Illness Summary”, is used to summarize a

railroad's accident/incident data for a given month. A report must be filed, even when no

accidents/incidents occurred during the report month. See § 225.21(b). 

Note that the injury of a railroad employee (a Worker on Duty-Employee (Class A) or an

Employee not on Duty (Class B)), is reportable if it results in death, requires medical

treatment, or results in a day away from work, restricted work activity or job transfer,

termination (as interpreted by FRA), or loss of consciousness. See § 225.19(d). Note that

the injury of a contractor or a volunteer (whether classified as Worker on Duty or not) is

reportable only if it meets the general criteria for reportability of the injury to a person--that

is, if the injury causes death or requires medical treatment.

Note that, as FRA interprets the regulation, illnesses are reportable only for the following

classification of persons: Worker on Duty--Employee.

B. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS

If there were no accidents/incidents for the month being reported, this fact must be noted on the

form.

If actual operational data (mileage, hours worked, etc.) are not available when the report is due,

then an estimate must be provided. A corrected report must be sent when actual figures are known. 

See § 225.13.

If there are substantial fluctuations in month-to-month operational data, the reason for such

variations (seasonal operation, strikes, consolidation, line abandonment, etc.) is to be explained.

A late or corrected report is not to be included in the counts for the current month. If such a report

is forwarded with the regular submission, it must have a separate cover letter indicating that it is a

corrected report or, for late submissions, explain why the report is being filed late. See § 225.13. 

Entries changed on corrected reports should be circled in red.

If an item such as "Passenger Miles Operated" does not apply to your railroad, enter "N/A". 

Fractions and decimals are to be rounded to the nearest whole number.

C. INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING FORM FRA F 6180.55
FORM FRA F 6180.55 - Continued

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Chapter 3 - Page 2 F 6180.55

Item Instruction

 1. Name of Reporting Railroad

Enter the full name of the reporting railroad.

 2. Alphabetic Code

Enter the reporting railroad's code, found in Appendix A.

 3. Report Month & Year

Enter the month and year covered by the report.

 4. State Alphabetic Code

Enter the code for the State in which the report was notarized, found in Appendix B.

 5. County

Enter the name of the county or parish in which the report was notarized. 

 6. Name of Reporting Officer

Enter the reporting officer's name.

 7. Official Title

Enter the reporting officer's official title.

 8. Address

Enter the reporting officer's address.

 9. Telephone

Enter the reporting officer's telephone number.

10. Enter the required information and have the report notarized.

Operational Data and Accident/Incident Counts for Report Month (Items 11-17)

In items 11-14, do not duplicate mileage in more than one block. For example, do not include yard

switching train miles in the total for either freight or passenger train-miles.

11. Freight Train Miles

Enter the number of train-miles run during the month in freight service.

12. Passenger Train Miles

Enter the number of train-miles run during the month in passenger service.
FORM FRA F 6180.55 - Continued

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Chapter 3 - Page 3 F 6180.55

13. Yard Switching Train Miles

Enter the number of yard switching miles run during the month.

14. Other Train Miles

Enter any other train-miles run that are not included in freight, passenger, or yard switching

train-miles. 

15. Railroad Worker [Employee] Hours

Enter the number of hours worked by all railroad employees during the month. Include all

employees in the occupation categories shown in Appendix D. Do not include time paid,

but not actually worked: such as holidays or vacations. Only those hours worked by

employees defined as "Class A" are to be counted. Hours worked by volunteers,

contractors, etc., are excluded. 

16. Passenger Miles Operated

If your railroad operated a rail passenger service enter the number of passenger-miles run

during the month. If passenger-miles are shown, the number of passengers transported must

be entered in item 17.

Please take special care when recording information on passenger service. Our

data verification procedures examine the relationship among the number of

passenger train miles reported in item 12, the number of passenger miles reported

in item 16, and the number of passengers transported as reported in item 17. If any

of these items contains an entry greater than 0, then it is generally assumed that all

three items must have a count. A simple example of a single train movement can

demonstrate this: A passenger train containing 250 passengers traveled from point

A to point B, a distance of 100 miles. This would be recorded as 100 passenger

train miles, 25,000 passenger miles (250 passengers x 100 miles), and 250

passengers transported.

17. Number of Passengers Transported

Enter the number of passengers transported by rail for the month being reported. 

18. Reported Casualties

Reportable casualties to all types of persons are to be reported on this form and are to be

categorized according to the type of person. All fatalities, including those due to illness,

are to be recorded in the appropriate blocks under the "Fatal" column. All remaining

cases, including nonfatal occupational illnesses, are to be shown under the "Nonfatal"

column. If no reportable casualties occurred during the report month, enter the word

"None" for the "Grand total". All casualties shown must also be reported individually on

Form FRA F 6180.55a.
FORM FRA F 6180.55 - Continued

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Chapter 3 - Page 4 F 6180.55

Each person is to be classified as one of the following:

a. Worker on Duty--Employee (Class A),

b. Employee not on Duty (Class B),

c. Passengers on Trains (Class C),

d. Nontrespassers--On Railroad Property (Class D),

e. Trespassers (Class E),

f. Worker on Duty--Contractor (Class F),

g. Contractor--Other (Class G),

h. Worker on Duty--Volunteer (Class H),

i. Volunteer--Other (Class I), and

j. Nontrespassers--Off Railroad Property (Class J). 

19. Number of FRA Forms Attached

List the number of FRA report forms completed during the month:

F 6180.54 Enter the number of forms used to report collisions, derailments,

and similar events when a rail equipment accident/incident is being

reported. 

F 6180.55a Enter the number of forms used to record reportable casualties. If, during

the report month, a person is injured and dies on the following day, or on

any day prior to the end of the month, this should be reported as a fatality on

Form FRA F 6180.55a. 

F 6180.56 Enter the number of forms used to report employee hours and casualties. 

This is usually “0”for each month, except for December, where “1” is

normally entered. 

F 6180.57 Enter the number of forms used to report impacts between railroad and

highway users at crossings. 
FORM FRA F 6180.55 - Continued

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Chapter 3 - Page 5 F 6180.55

F 6180.81 Enter the number of Employee Human Factor Attachments which are

attached. 

20. Remarks Section

Enter any remarks, including explanations for unusual fluctuations in train-miles operated,

employee hours, passenger counts, etc., or operational characteristics that result in

contradictory or confusing counts (for example, train miles are reported, but there are no

railroad worker [employee] hours). 

D. COMMON REPORTING ERRORS

Missing Data. 

If the information required for an item is not available at the time a report is to be filed, an

estimate should be used. Later, if it is determined that the actual value was substantially different

from the estimated value, a corrected report must be forwarded.

Math Errors. 

The total number and distribution of casualties reported must agree with the sum of the individual

casualties on Form FRA F 6180.55a.

Contradictory Information. 

If employee casualties are reported, the number of railroad worker hours cannot be "0".

If Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Reports (Form FRA F 6180.54) or Highway-Rail Grade

Crossing Accident/Incident Reports (Form FRA F 6180.57) were prepared for accidents/incidents

involving moving trains, the total number of miles run during the month cannot be "0".

If the entry in "Passenger Miles Operated" is greater than "0", the entry in "Number of Passengers

Transported" cannot be "0", and vice versa.

If passenger casualties are reported, the entry in "Number of Passengers Transported" cannot be

"0".

The number of passenger miles operated must be consistent with the number of passengers

transported. Since a passenger mile is the movement of one passenger for a distance of one mile,

this number will generally be much greater than the number of passengers transported. For

example, if a train carried 300 passengers a distance of 50 miles, the number of passenger miles

would be 15,000.
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Chapter 4 - Page 1 F 6180.98

CHAPTER 4 - FORM FRA F 6180.98

Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record

A. REQUIREMENT

Each railroad shall maintain either the Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record (Form

FRA F 6180.98) or an alternative railroad-designed record of all reportable and all accountable

injuries and illnesses of its employees that arise from the operation of the railroad for each

railroad establishment where such employees report to work, including, but not limited to, an

operating division, general office, and major installation such as a locomotive or car repair or

construction facility. Include only reportable and accountable injuries of railroad employees (that

is, Worker on Duty--Employee (Class A) or Employee not on Duty (Class B)). Include only

reportable and accountable illnesses of persons classified as Worker on Duty--Employee (Class

A). See §§ 225.5, § 225.19(d). Do not include injuries or illnesses of volunteers or contractors. 

See § 225.25(a)-(b). See also § 225.3 regarding certain railroads exempted from the duty to

record “accountables”.

The alternative railroad-designed record may be used in lieu of the Railroad Employee Injury

and/or Illness Record (Form FRA F 6180.98). Any such alternative record shall contain all of the

information required on the Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record. Although this

information may be displayed in a different order from that on the Railroad Employee Injury

and/or Illness Record, the order of the information shall be consistent from one such record to

another such record. The order chosen by the railroad shall be consistent for each of the railroad's

reporting establishments. Railroads may list additional information on the alternative record

beyond the information required on the Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record. 

Furthermore, you may use your alternative record to collect information on conditions that

do not meet the "accountable" definition, or to make entries for individuals other than

employees of the railroad. (See question Q6 and answer in Chapter 1 for additional

guidance.)

It would be difficult, if not impossible, for a railroad to monitor self-treatment of minor injuries. 

Thus, the type of injuries that are generally expected to be recorded on the "Railroad Employee

Injury and/or Illness Record" (Form FRA F 6180.98) are those that create a "documentation trail." 

This documentation could include records such as: incident reports; health care provider records;

or any other records that may identify the fact that an employee has sustained physical harm while

in the work environment that required examination or treatment by a qualified health care

professional. See § 225.5, definition of “accountable injury or illness”. This broad scope is

necessary since all conditions, regardless of severity, must be evaluated to determine if the

requirements necessary for reporting the injury/illness have been met.

A primary purpose for the recording of accountable cases is to establish a standardized set of data

that the reporting officer will use in deciding whether or not to report a case. It also serves as a

tool for FRA safety assurance and compliance officers to use during reviews to determine if
FORM FRA F 6180.98 - Continued

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Chapter 4 - Page 2 F 6180.98

proper reporting decisions are being made. Once it has been determined that a particular case

is reportable and has been forwarded on Form FRA F 6180.55a, it is no longer necessary to

continue to update this record. Changes to counts of days absent or restricted, are to be made on

the form 6180.55a, not form 6180.98.

Each railroad shall enter each reportable and each accountable injury and illness on the

appropriate record as early as practicable, but no later than seven working days after receiving

information or acquiring knowledge that an injury or illness has occurred. See § 225.25(f).

The records described above may be maintained at the local establishment or, alternatively, at a

centralized location. If the records are maintained at a centralized location, but not through

electronic means, then a paper copy of the records that is current within 35 days of the month to

which it applies shall be available for that establishment. If the records are maintained at a

centralized location through electronic means, then the records for that establishment shall be

available for review in a hard copy format within four business hours of FRA's request. FRA

recognizes that circumstances outside the railroad's control may preclude it from fulfilling the fourbusiness-hour time limit. In these circumstances, FRA will not assess a monetary penalty against

the railroad for its failure to provide the requested documentation provided the railroad made a

reasonable effort to correct the problem. See § 225.25(g).

Do not submit this form or an alternate railroad-designed record. If a case is determined to be

reportable, it must be recorded on Form FRA F 6180.55a and included with the reports filed 

for that month. 

The information required to be recorded on Form FRA F 6180.98 is self-explanatory; therefore,

specific instructions for completion are not needed. However, it is important to note that the

"Case/Incident Number" identified in block 2 must be used on Form FRA F 6180.55a for any case

determined to be reportable. 

The alternative record shall contain, at a minimum, the following information:

 1. Name of railroad;

 2. Case/incident number;

 3. Full name of railroad employee;

 4. Date of birth of railroad employee;

 5. Gender of railroad employee;
FORM FRA F 6180.98 - Continued

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Chapter 4 - Page 3 F 6180.98

 6. Social Security Number of railroad employee;

 7. Date the railroad employee was hired;

 8. Home address of railroad employee; include the street address, city,

State, ZIP code, and home telephone number with area code;

 9. Name of facility where railroad employee normally reports to work;

10. Address of facility where railroad employee normally reports to

work; include the street address, city, State, and ZIP code;

11. Job title of railroad employee;

12. Department assigned;

13. Specific site where accident/incident/exposure occurred; include

the city, county, State, and ZIP code;

14. Date and time of occurrence; military time or AM/PM;

15. Time employee's shift began; military time or AM/PM;

16. Whether employee was on premises when injury occurred;

17. Whether employee was on or off duty;

18. Date and time when employee notified company personnel of

condition; military time or AM/PM;

19. Name and title of railroad official notified;

20. Description of the general activity this employee was engaged in

prior to the injury/illness/condition;

21. Description of all factors associated with the case that are pertinent

to an understanding of how it occurred. Include a discussion of the

sequence of events leading up to it; and the tools, machinery,

processes, material, environmental conditions, etc., involved;
FORM FRA F 6180.98 - Continued

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Chapter 4 - Page 4 F 6180.98

22. Description, in detail, of the injury/illness/condition that the

employee sustained, including the body parts affected. If a

recurrence, list the date of the last occurrence;

23. Identification of all persons and organizations used to evaluate or

treat the condition, or both. Include the facility, provider and

complete address;

24. Description of all procedures, medications, therapy, etc., used or

recommended for the treatment of the condition;

25. Extent and outcome of injury or illness to show the following as

applicable:

a. Fatality--enter date of death;

b. Restricted work; number of days; beginning date;

c. Occupational illness; date of initial diagnosis;

d. Instructions to obtain prescription medication, or

receipt of prescription medication;

e. If missed one or more days of work or next shift,

provide number of work days; and beginning date;

f. Medical treatment beyond "first aid";

g. Hospitalization for treatment as an inpatient;

h. Multiple treatments or therapy sessions;

i. Loss of consciousness;

j. Transfer to another job or termination of

employment;

26. Each railroad shall indicate if the Railroad Injury and Illness

Summary (Continuation Sheet) (FRA Form F 6180.55a) has been

filed with FRA for the injury or illness. If FRA Form F 6180.55a
FORM FRA F 6180.98 - Continued

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Chapter 4 - Page 5 F 6180.98

was not filed with FRA, then the railroad shall provide an

explanation of the basis for its decision.

27. The reporting railroad shall indicate if the injured or ill railroad

employee was provided an opportunity to review his or her file; and

28. The reporting railroad shall identify the preparer's name; title;

telephone number with area code; and the date the log entry was

completed.
FORM FRA F 6180.98 - Continued

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Chapter 5 - Page 1 F 6180.97

CHAPTER 5 - FORM FRA F 6180.97

Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Record

A. REQUIREMENT

Each railroad shall maintain the Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Record (Form FRA F

6180.97), or an alternative railroad-designed record as described in the following paragraph, of

reportable and accountable collisions, derailments, fires, explosions, acts of God, or other events

involving the operation of railroad on-track equipment, signals, track, or track equipment (standing

or moving) that result in damages to railroad on-track equipment, signals, tracks, track structures,

or roadbed, including labor costs and all other costs for repairs or replacement in kind for each

railroad establishment where workers report to work, including, but not limited to, an operating

division, general office, and major installation such as a locomotive or car repair or construction

facility. See §§ 225.21(i), 225.25(d)-(e). See also § 225.3 regarding certain railroads exempted

recording “accountables”.

The alternative railroad-designed record may be used in lieu of the Initial Rail Equipment

Accident/Incident Record (Form FRA F 6180.97). Any such alternative record shall contain all of

the information required on the Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Record. Although this

information may be displayed in a different order from that on the Initial Rail Equipment

Accident/Incident Record, the order of the information shall be consistent from one such record to

another such record. The order chosen by the railroad shall be consistent for each of the railroad's

reporting establishments. Railroads may list additional information in the alternative record

beyond the information required on the Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Record. 

The alternative record shall contain, at a minimum, the following information: 

1. Date and time of accident;

2. Reporting railroad, and accident/incident number;

3. Other railroad, if applicable, and other railroad's accident/incident

number;

4. Railroad responsible for track maintenance, and that railroad's

incident number;

5. Type of accident/incident (derailment, collision, etc.);

6. Number of cars carrying hazardous materials that derailed or were

damaged; and number of cars carrying hazardous materials that

released product;
FORM FRA F 6180.97 - Continued

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Chapter 5 - Page 2 F 6180.97

7. Division;

8. Nearest city or town;

9. State;

10. Milepost (to the nearest tenth);

11. Specific site;

12. Speed (indicate if actual or estimate);

13. Train number or job number;

14. Type of equipment (freight, passenger, yard switching, etc.);

15. Type of track (main, yard, siding, industry);

16. Total number of locomotives in train;

17. Total number of locomotives that derailed;

18. Total number of cars in train;

19. Total number of cars that derailed;

20. Total amount of damage in dollars to equipment based on

computations as described in this Guide;

21. Total amount of damage in dollars to track, signal, way, and

structures based on computations as described in this Guide;

22. Primary cause;

23. Contributing cause;

24. Number of persons injured and persons killed, broken down into the

following classifications: worker on duty--employee; employee not

on duty; passenger on train; nontrespasser--on railroad property;

trespasser; worker on duty--contractor; contractor--other; worker
FORM FRA F 6180.97 - Continued

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Chapter 5 - Page 3 F 6180.97

on duty--volunteer; volunteer--other; and nontrespasser--off railroad

property;

25. Narrative description of the accident;

26. Whether the accident/incident was reported to FRA;

27. Preparer's name, title, telephone number with area code, and

signature; and

28. Date the report was completed.

Each railroad shall enter each reportable and accountable rail equipment accident/incident on the

appropriate record, as early as practicable but no later than seven working days after receiving

information or acquiring knowledge that a rail equipment accident/incident has occurred. See 

§ 225.25(f). 

The records described above may be maintained at the local establishment or, alternatively, at a

centralized location. If the records are maintained at a centralized location, but not through

electronic means, then a paper copy of the records that is current within 35 days of the month to

which it applies shall be available for that establishment. If the records are maintained at a

centralized location through electronic means, then the records for that establishment shall be

available for review in a hard copy format within four business hours of FRA's request. FRA

recognizes that circumstances outside the railroad's control may preclude it from fulfilling the fourbusiness-hour time limit. In these circumstances, FRA will not assess a monetary penalty against

the railroad for its failure to provide the requested documentation provided the railroad made a

reasonable effort to correct the problem. See § 225.25(g).

Do not submit this form or an alternate railroad-designed record. If an incident is determined to be

reportable, it must be recorded on Form FRA F 6180.54 and be included with the reports filed for

that month. If there are any reportable casualties, they must be reported on the Form FRA F

6180.55a. Once a decision has been made that the rail equipment accident/incident is reportable,

any further updating should be done on the Form FRA F 6180.54, and you need not update the

Form FRA F 6180.97. 

The information required to be recorded on Form FRA F 6180.97 is self-explanatory and

generally narrative in nature; therefore, specific instructions for completion are not needed. 

However, it is important to note that the "Case/Incident Number" identified in block 4 must be

used on Form FRA F 6180.54 and/or 6180.57 for any case determined to be reportable.
FORM FRA F 6180.97 - Continued

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Chapter 6 - Page 1 F 6180.55a

CHAPTER 6 - FORM FRA F 6180.55a

Railroad Injury and Illness Summary (Continuation Sheet)

A. REQUIREMENT

Any event connected with the operation of a railroad that results in one or more of the following

consequences must be reported on Form FRA F 6180.55a:

1. Death of a person within 365 calendar days of the accident/ incident;

2. Injury to a person, other than a railroad employee, that requires medical

treatment;

3. Injury to a railroad employee that requires medical treatment or results in

restriction of work for one or more work days, the loss of one or more work

days, termination of employment (as interpreted by FRA), transfer to

another job, or loss of consciousness; or

4. Any occupational illness of a railroad employee.

See § 225.19(d).

A railroad need not report the following:

1. Casualties at highway-rail crossing sites that do not involve the presence or

operation of on-track rail equipment, or the presence of railroad employees

engaged in the operation of a railroad;

2. Casualties in or about living quarters that do not arise from the operation of

a railroad;

3. Suicides, as determined by a coroner or other public authority;

4. Attempted suicides.

See § 225.15.

B. EMPLOYEE INJURY/ILLNESS REPORTING

The work environment is the physical location, equipment, materials processed or used, and

activities of a railroad employee associated with his or her work, whether on or off the railroad's

property. There are no stated exclusions of place or circumstance. All activities of a Worker on
FORM FRA F 6180.55a - Continued

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Chapter 6 - Page 2 F 6180.55a

Duty--Employee (Class A) while in the work environment are presumed to be work-related for

accident/incident reporting purposes.

An employee is in the work environment:

1. While engaged in work activity or apprenticeship/vocational training

required by the employer.

2. While on break, in the rest room, or in storage areas when located on the

employer's premises.

3. While performing work for pay or compensation at home, pursuant to the

employer's instructions, if the injury or illness is directly related to the

performance of work rather than the general home environment or setting.

4. While traveling on business, including to and from customer contacts. 

Employees in travel status (i.e., traveling on company business) should be

considered engaged in work-related activities during all of their time spent

in the "interest of their company". This includes, but is not limited to, travel

to and from customer contacts, conducting job tasks, and entertaining or

being entertained for the purpose of transacting, discussing, or promoting

business.

5. While employee is engaged in work activity where a vehicle is considered

the work environment (e.g., truck, taxi).

6. While at conferences where attendance is expected or required by the

employer.

7. Some workplaces provide living quarters for employees on their premises. 

In these workplaces, injuries or illnesses are presumed to be work-related

if the employee is on-duty or engaged in a work activity. The injury or

illness is also considered work-related if the employee was harmed as a

result of a serious workplace accident such as a chemical release, fire,

explosion, derailment, collision, or building collapse. All other injuries

and illnesses occurring during off-duty hours while in living quarters are

considered non-work-related.

Employees present in the work environment, but for reasons unconnected with their employment,

generally are not reportable as Worker on Duty--Employee (Class A) should they be injured. 

These individuals are more appropriately classified as employees not on duty, nontrespassers on
FORM FRA F 6180.55a - Continued

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railroad property, passengers on train, etc., and if hurt should be identified as such. The following

are examples: 

1. Injuries or illnesses that occur to employees present at their employer's

establishment as a member of the general public rather than as a worker.

2. Injuries or illnesses that are solely the result of employees doing personal

tasks (unrelated to their employment) at the establishment outside of normal

working hours.

3. Injuries or illnesses occurring on company parking lots and access roads

while employees are arriving at or leaving work.

4. An injury or illness solely associated with participation in voluntary

community or civic projects, e.g., Operation Lifesaver presentations; unless

the employee was under pay status. 

Injury/Illness Distinction. The distinction between occupational illnesses and injuries is based

primarily on the event or exposure that precipitated the employee's condition. Injuries are

generally the result of instantaneous events; for example, an employee is struck by an object and

sustains a cut or a bruise. Illnesses, on the other hand, are usually the result of an exposure that

occurs over time; such as hearing impairment caused by working in a noisy environment. 

Exceptions to this general rule are muscular sprains, strains, or soreness, occurring after work

activity for which no single movement or event can be isolated as the primary causal factor. 

Physical conditions of this type are to be recorded as injuries when the condition is attributable to

activity of limited duration--typically no more than a single work shift.

Another major difference between reportable injuries and illnesses is that injuries must result in at

least one of a group of consequences. These include: medical treatment; absence from work;

restriction at work, loss of consciousness, etc. Occupational illnesses of on-duty railroad

employees are recordable upon diagnosis by a qualified health care professional and verification

of work-relatedness. 

A "qualified health care professional" (QHCP) is a health care professional operating within the

scope of his or her license, registration, or certification. For example, an otolaryngologist is

qualified to diagnose a case of noise-induced hearing loss and identify potential causal factors, but

may not be qualified to diagnose a case of repetitive motion injuries. See § 225.5. A railroad will

generally choose to designate a physician as the QHCP since the diagnosis of many potential

occupational illnesses requires specialized training. Some conditions, however, may not require

the skills of a physician; e.g., a reaction to a known exposure at work to poison ivy can generally

be diagnosed by a QHCP other than a physician. When considering what type of professional to
FORM FRA F 6180.55a - Continued

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Chapter 6 - Page 4 F 6180.55a

use as the QHCP, you should choose an individual who has qualifications commensurate with

properly diagnosing the condition and determining its causal relationship to factors within the

work environment.

The reason for this difference is that occupational illnesses often cause impairment of the normal

physiological functioning of body systems, or other abnormal health conditions, which may have

long-term or permanent physiological effects. However, this may not cause any of the

consequences required for injury reporting. Work-related hearing impairment caused by

prolonged exposure to noise is an example of this.

Some subjective symptoms that an employee experiences at work may not be reportable. These

are typically described as headache, nausea, general malaise, etc. Frequently, they are associated

with an alleged exposure to fumes or smoke. Complaints of this type are generally reportable

when work relationship is established and:

1. there are objective findings by a QHCP following a positive lab

test; or,

2. the symptoms are not transient in nature, i.e., they continue beyond 24 hours

from initial onset; or,

3. any of the following consequences resulted:

a. medical treatment,

b. a missed work shift,

c. restriction while at work,

d. loss of consciousness,

e. hospitalization.

Employee Injuries. Two questions will generally determine whether or not a report of employee

injury should be made; these are:

1. Is there any information indicating the employee was harmed while

in the work environment?

2. Did this condition result in any of the following consequences?
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a. Medical treatment other than first aid;

b. A day away from work;

c. Restriction of work on the day of injury or any

subsequent day;

d. Transfer to another job;

e. Termination of the employee due to injury (as

interpreted by FRA);

f. Loss of consciousness.

If the answer to both questions is in the affirmative, the case will be, in almost every instance,

reportable. 

The following do not affect reportability if there is evidence an employee was harmed while in the

work environment:

1. The event was not witnessed.

2. The employee did not immediately notify a supervisor.

3. The employee did not require medical treatment at the time of the

injury.

4. The injury was the result of an employee's error.

5. The injury was caused by outside factors, e.g., an assault on an

employee.

6. The injury did not meet all the necessary conditions for reporting at

the time of the initial event, activity, etc.

7. The injury was the culmination of a series of activities.

Medical Treatment (Reportable) versus First Aid. The distinction between medical treatment and

first aid depends not only on the treatment provided, but also on the severity of the injury being

treated. First aid is:
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1. Limited to one-time treatment and subsequent observation; and

2. Involves treatment of only minor injuries, not emergency treatment

of serious injuries. An injury is not minor if:

a. It must be treated only by a physician or licensed

medical personnel;

b. It impairs bodily function (i.e., normal use of senses,

limbs, etc.);

c. It results in damage to the physical structure of a

nonsuperficial nature (e.g. fractures); or

d. It involves complications requiring follow-up

medical treatment.

One-time treatment of an injury should not be used as the sole basis for classifying a treatment or

procedure as first aid. Medical treatment can, and often is, given on a one-time basis, e.g., the

suturing of a wound. The procedures used and the skills required to treat an injury, as well as the

seriousness of the injury, are all factors that must be considered when determining the type of

treatment rendered.

Likewise, medical treatment cannot be determined solely on the basis of who treats a case. First

aid treatment can be given by a physician, and medical treatment, by someone other than a

physician.

While it is not possible to identify every procedure or treatment and classify it as either medical or

first aid treatment, examples of common medical, first aid, and other treatments are described

below and on following pages.

TREATMENTS THAT ARE CONSIDERED TO BE MEDICAL TREATMENT

1. Closure of a wound with suture (stitch), staple, Steristrip, butterfly, or the

like.

2. The application of a cast or other professional means of immobilizing an

injured part of the body, regardless of how long the cast, sling, splint, or the

like, is actually worn.
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3. Injection. Any application of medication through the use of a syringe,

except a tetanus shot.

4. Bruise. The treatment of a bruise by drainage of blood.

5. Debridement. Surgical debridement, that is, the removal of dead or

damaged skin.

6. Treatment of a burn. The treatment of a second-or third-degree burn is

almost always medical treatment if the size of the affected area cannot be

covered with a quarter.

7. Prescription medication. Any prescription medication prescribed or

provided for a condition that is intended for subsequent use. A single dose

taken orally or applied externally on the initial visit is considered to be first

aid and is not reportable. (See definition of prescription medication.)

8. Eye Injury. Removal of any object embedded in the eye, or the application

of a patch or a bandage.

9. X-Ray. An X-Ray that is positive.

 10. Whirlpool treatment. Any injury that requires more than one whirlpool

treatment.

 11. Multiple treatments. Any injury that results in additional treatment by a

physician or other medical professional on a second or subsequent visit. 

This does not include a routine examination of the progress of an injury or

instances where bandages or other dressings are replaced.

TREATMENTS THAT ARE ALMOST ALWAYS FIRST AID

1. The application of an antiseptic during the first visit to a physician or nurse.

2. The use of a nonprescription or "over-the-counter" medication.

3. The use of a hot or cold compress on the first visit to a physician or nurse.

4. The treatment of a first degree burn.

5. The observation of an injury on a second or subsequent visit.
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6. The bandaging of a wound is normally considered to be first aid treatment. 

However, if the bandage restricts the motion of a railroad employee to the

extent that it prevents the employee from performing all normally assigned

duties, the case would be reportable because it resulted in restriction of

work activity.

7. The application of an ointment to an abrasion to prevent skin from drying or

cracking.

8. The removal of a foreign object that is not embedded in the eye by irrigating

or other simple technique that does not normally require the skill of a

medical professional.

9. The removal of an embedded object from a part of the body other than the

eye by tweezers or other simple technique.

10. The administration of oxygen (other than forced breathing, e.g.,

IPPB) for less than one hour.

11. The use of a protective cover on a finger or thumb that does not extend

beyond one joint.

OTHER TREATMENTS AND PROCEDURES

1. Hospitalization for observation, when only first aid is rendered, is not

considered medical treatment. However, most injuries resulting in

hospitalization will result in lost workdays and be reportable for that

reason.

2. X-ray examinations that are negative are not medical treatment. If an

employee loses workdays while awaiting the results of X-rays that are

negative, the case would not be reportable unless the injury would have

otherwise resulted in lost workdays or satisfied any of the other criteria for

reporting.

3. Preventive measures not associated with accidents/incidents are not

reportable, e.g., influenza vaccinations made available to employees prior

to the flu season. When there are no complications arising from the flu shot,

then the administration of prescription medication by injection would not be

reportable. However, if the individual has an adverse reaction, the

consequences of such a reaction may be reportable. Treatments given in
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response to work-related conditions/symptoms are not considered

preventive for reporting purposes.

4. A visit to a physician or nurse, and simple diagnostic procedures, such as

drawing blood for testing, typing, etc., are not by themselves considered to

be medical treatment.

5. Chiropractic treatments for a work-related condition are reportable

if treatments are given beyond the date of the initial visit. 

6. Precautionary treatments. Treatment provided in response to an

event such as a dog bite may be precautionary. For example, a

rabies shot following a dog bite is precautionary treatment, so the

injury would be reportable. The single stated exclusion to

reporting injuries which require precautionary treatment is a tetanus

shot, since the decision to give this shot is generally based on the

date of the last injection rather than the severity of the injury.

Under certain circumstances some treatments occurring prior to a

diagnosis may not, by themselves, make a case reportable. For

example, it is often a standard procedure of emergency rescue teams

to administer preventive treatment such as oxygen or apply an

intravenous saline solution while a patient is being transported to a

medical facility for further evaluation. Such preventive treatment

does not make the injury reportable.

 

Days Absent and Restricted Work Activity. A report must be made whenever an injury to an

employee results in:

1. A day absent from work;

2. Restriction while at work, or both. 

A day absent from work occurs when an employee does not report for the next scheduled work

assignment following the date of the injury, or for any subsequent workday, for reasons related to

his or her injury.

Restriction while at work occurs when a work-related condition results in:
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1. Temporary assignment to another job;

2. Working less than a regular shift;

3. Being given limited or restricted duties; or,

4. Inability to perform all normally assigned duties of the regular job.

A day of restriction occurs when an employee is restricted (as defined above) on the next schedule

work shift, or any subsequent workday, following the date of the injury.

An injury that results in restriction of work on the day of the injury/illness may be reportable on

that basis alone. Restriction of work on the day of injury occurs when a qualified health care

professional instructs an employee to remain off work for the remainder of the day for reasons

directly related to the injury, and the employee does so. 

Occupational Illness. The following are major categories of occupational illnesses. A description

of specific conditions found in these groupings appears in Appendix E.

1. Skin Diseases or Disorders

2. Dust Diseases of the Lungs

3. Respiratory Conditions Due to Toxic Agents

4. Poisoning (Systemic Effects of Toxic Materials)

5. Disorders Due to Physical Agents (Other than Toxic Materials)

6. Disorders Caused by Repeated Trauma

Only occupational illnesses of on-duty railroad employees are reportable to FRA; these

occupational illnesses are reportable only upon diagnosis and the establishment of workrelatedness. See §§ 225.5 and 225.19(d). In some cases, such as contact dermatitis, this

relationship can be readily determined. For other cases, where the occupational cause is not

direct and apparent, it may be difficult to accurately determine whether or not an employee's

illness is occupational in nature. The following questions may help to establish this relationship.

1. Has an illness/condition been clearly identified?
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2. Is it likely that the illness resulted from, or was aggravated by,

suspected agents or other conditions in the work environment?

3. Are the suspected agents present (or have they been present) in the

work environment?

4. Was the ill employee exposed to the agents in the work

environment?

5. Was the degree or duration of exposure sufficient to result in the

illness/ condition?

6. Is the illness attributable solely to a nonoccupational exposure?

Employee Reporting (Miscellaneous).

Emotional Trauma resulting from a work-related event is reportable upon diagnosis by a qualified

health care professional and when it results in multiple treatments (i.e., therapy sessions), requires

medical treatment, or causes days to be lost or restricted. An example of a reportable case would

be an engineer, involved in a highway-rail collision with multiple fatalities. The engineer is

unable to work following the accident even though he or she was not physically injured. The

condition is diagnosed by a psychiatrist as being work-related, and the engineer subsequently

receives professional therapy over a period of days.

A case involving emotional trauma is to be recorded using illness code “119E - Emotional

trauma/nervous shock”. 

The aggravation of a pre-existing physical condition within the work environment becomes

reportable whenever an activity, a specific event, an exposure, or the like is identified as the likely

cause of the aggravation. If the reporting officer, after reviewing all information associated with

the case, is able to determine that the consequences arising from the aggravation were in no way

connected with the performance of the employee's work, then the incident should not be reported. 

Note: For purposes of accident/incident reporting the term "aggravation of a pre-existing

physical condition" does not imply that there is a measurable worsening of the

underlying condition. A case becomes reportable when a work-related activity,

movement, event, exposure or the like, causes the employee to receive medical

treatment, to lose time from work, or causes any of the other consequences required

for employee injury/illness reporting.
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Recurring Conditions. There may be instances when an employee, after returning to work

following a reportable condition, experiences a problem or complication that appears to be

attributable to the previously reported injury/illness. If the employee's difficulty was neither

caused nor aggravated by a work-related activity, motion, exposure, or the like, then a new

incident has not occurred. Additional days lost or restricted in these instances are to be added to

the count of the days lost for the original case.

However, if the employee relates his current problem to a work-related event, activity, motion,

exposure, or the like, then a new incident has occurred for which a report must be made. As a

general rule, after 30 days from the date of the injury/illness, and provided the employee has not

experienced symptoms or complications related to the reported condition, then any new episodes

of pain or trauma would normally require the filing of a separate report.

Loss of consciousness of a railroad employee resulting from an injury or an exposure within the

work environment is reportable. See § 225.19(d)(3)(iii). Loss of consciousness that is a result of

a physical condition, such as epilepsy, that was not brought on by an event, activity, or exposure in

the work environment is not reportable. Injuries normally associated with such a seizure would

not be reportable; however, additional injuries that occur may be reportable. For example, if a

railroad employee has a history of seizures that typically result in muscle strains, the strains would

not be reportable. However, if the seizure occurred in an environment where an additional risk of

sustaining severe injury existed, then the injury should be reported. For example, if a railroad

employee breaks his or her leg because of a fall from a scaffolding during a seizure, the broken leg

would be reportable since a broken leg is not an injury that is normally the result of a seizure.

C. GENERAL INTERPRETATIONS

Casualties to persons on trains or other on-track equipment, except for employees of another

railroad, are to be reported by the railroad responsible for the consist at the time of the

accident/incident.

Casualties to persons not on trains or other on-track equipment, are to be reported by the railroad

whose consist or operation was most directly involved, e.g., casualties away from railroad

property resulting from a release of hazardous material.

Any person found unconscious or dead on or adjacent to a railroad's premises or right-of-way, is

reportable by the railroad responsible for track maintenance if it is determined that the casualty

resulted from the operation of a railroad and the identity of the railroad causing the

accident/incident cannot be established in areas of joint operation.
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When a person dies as a result of an accident/incident after the month in which the case was

initially reported, the case will be reclassified as a fatality. Any death occurring under these

circumstances is to be identified by correcting the original casualty record to change the casualty

from nonfatal to fatal and the corrected report submitted with changes circled in red.

A separate line entry must be made for each casualty.

Each accident/incident must have an identifying number that is unique for the report month. All

forms used by a railroad to report a single event must use the same accident/incident number. For

example, if a highway-rail crossing accident injures more than one person, a separate line entry is

used on form 6180.55a to report each injury. A form 6180.57 must also be completed. The same

accident/incident identification number must be the same for all records.

The carrier is required to monitor an employee case for 365 calendar days following the date of

the event or exposure causing the injury or illness.

Counting Days Absent from Work and Days of Restriction.

FRA needs accurate counts of the days an employee was absent from work and/or restricted while

at work because of an injury or occupational illness. Frequently, an employee's condition is such

that it will result in lost/restricted days extending beyond the 30 day filing deadline. If this occurs,

you must make a good faith estimate of the additional number of days that may accrue for the case. 

A record of the actual count of these days must be maintained for the affected employee. After the

employee returns to work at full capacity, a corrected report must be submitted that shows the

actual count of days, if these are significantly different from the original estimate. A significant

difference in this context is a variance of 10 percent or more between the estimated and final total.

Updates are to be made in accordance with the provisions for filing corrected reports and/or

submitting computer updates to existing records.

When reporting the count of days, the following guidelines are to be followed:

1. The day of the accident/incident is not to be included in either count.

2. Regularly assigned rest days and holidays are not counted.

3. For an employee on an irregular assignment, all days away from work or

days of restriction are to be counted from the time the employee marked off

until the time he or she marked up. The fact that an employee's name

remained on the "extra board" or some other duty roster following the

injury/illness is not to be used as the basis for ceasing the counting of such
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days, unless the employee was actually available and capable of performing

all the duties of the job if called upon to do so.

4. Vacation days scheduled prior to the accident/incident are not to be

included in the counts.

5. The count of days for a fatality is to be left blank.

6. Days away from work, days of restriction, or a combination of the two, are

limited to a maximum of 365 calendar days following the date of injury or

initial diagnosis of occupational illness. Regularly assigned rest days,

holidays, and vacation days that were scheduled before the

accident/incident occurred are to be subtracted from the 365 day maximum. 

If an employee permanently disabled as a result of an accident/incident is

subsequently rehabilitated and assigned to another job within this period,

then the count of days may cease upon such reassignment.

7. If an employee, while accumulating days away from work or days of

restriction, is terminated, furloughed, or otherwise dismissed from service

for reasons entirely unrelated to the accident/incident, then the count of such

days ceases upon termination or dismissal. If the employee should later

return to work, the count of days need not be resumed.

8. If it is necessary during a workday for an employee to have a follow-up

examination, or receive additional medical care, etc., the time spent going

to, and coming from such an appointment is not considered restricted time. 

If the employee was not already on restricted duty prior to going to, or upon

returning from such visits, a day of restriction need not be charged. If the

employee does not report to work at all on such days, a day away from

work has occurred.

9. If an employee lays off to see a physician for an initial evaluation

after the day of an injury/illness, and provided that none of the

reportability criteria is met, a day away from work is not to be

charged, since there has not been a reportable accident/incident.

10. Each work day that a patch or a bandage is worn over an eye as a

result of the accident/incident is a day of restriction.

11. The application of a splint, finger guard, cast, or similar device,

constitutes medical treatment and makes a case reportable. 
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However, if the employee is not restricted in work upon returning to

duty, a day of restriction is not to be charged.

12. Damage to an employee's personal effects, such as eye glasses,

hearing aids, or dentures, is not by itself reportable. If a reportable

injury did not also occur, the work days lost while awaiting repair

or replacement of these articles are not to be charged.

D. INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING FORM FRA F 6180.55A (Continuation)

Item Instruction

 1. Name of Reporting Railroad

Enter the full name of the reporting railroad.

 2. Alphabetic Code

Enter the reporting railroad's code found in Appendix A.

 3. Report Month

Enter the month covered by this report.

 4. Report Year

Enter the year covered by this report. 

 5a. Accident/Injury Number

Enter the identifying number assigned to the accident/incident causing the casualty. If

multiple casualties resulted from a single event, each casualty must have exactly the same

report number. If the casualty was a result of a rail equipment accident/incident or a

highway-rail crossing impact, the entry must be the same as that shown on the other forms

completed for the accident/incident.

 5b. Day

Enter the day of the accident/incident. Use number day of the month, e.g., 01-31.

 5c. Time of Day

Enter the time of the accident/incident including "am" or "pm". Do not use military time. 

 5d. County

Enter the County/Parish in which the accident/incident occurred. 

 5e. State
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Identify the State in which the casualty occurred using the appropriate code found in

Appendix B. 

 5f. Type Person/Job Code

Identify the type of person whose injury or illness is being reported by using the following

codes (refer to classification of persons found in the definitions in Chapter 2): A -

Worker on Duty--Employee; B - Employee not on Duty; C -Passengers on Trains; D -

Nontrespassers--On Railroad Property; E - Trespassers; F - Worker on Duty--Contractor;

G - Contractor--Other; H - Worker on Duty--Volunteer; I - Volunteer--Other; and J -

Nontrespassers--Off Railroad Property. 

If the report is for a "Worker On Duty", i.e., type person/job codes "A", "F", or "H", or the

person is an "Employee not on duty", type person code "B", you must enter the code from

Appendix D that best identifies the individual's occupation/responsibilities. 

 5g. Age

Enter the age of person whose injury or illness is being reported.

 5h. Drug/Alcohol Test

If any employee was tested for alcohol use in connection with this accident, enter "A-"

followed by the number of positive tests. If any employee was tested for drug use in

connection with this accident, enter "D-" followed by the number of positive tests. If there

were positive tests, but impairment is not reported as a cause of the accident, then provide

a brief explanation in the narrative of the basis for this determination. The narrative is to

be used to provide additional clarification, particularly in instances where there are

positive test results, but impairment was not determined to have been causal.

You are required to identify all accidents/incidents where testing was performed. The

recording of this data on a record does not mean that the injured person was the individual

tested. This situation could occur when the employee(s) tested for the use of these

substances was not harmed in the accident/incident. Under these circumstances, since there

was no injury to the tested employee, there would be no entry for this employee on the

Form FRA F 6180.55a. Therefore, it is critical to record the information concerning tests

on all reports filed in connection with the accident/incident. 

This situation could arise, for example, when a non-employee, e.g., a passenger, sustains

the only reportable injury in an incident that resulted in testing of employee(s). In order to

identify the connection between the injury being reported and possible alcohol or drug use

by an employee, it is mandatory that the information concerning the alcohol or drug use be

recorded on the reports made in connection with the accident/incident.
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 5i. Injury/Illness Code

Select from the codes in Appendix E the combination that best describes the condition

being reported.

 5j. Physical Act

From Appendix F, select the code which best describes what the injured person was doing

just before the injury occurred. If the code you have selected does not sufficiently describe

the "Physical Act", provide further description in the Narrative. 

 5k. Location The location is comprised of three sets of codes as described below.

PART I: Was the person on the right-of-way, off the right-of-way, or on on-track

equipment? 

Identify the appropriate category of where the casualty occurred, and enter

the appropriate code listed in Appendix F. When using "Other", a narrative

must be provided in item 5s.

PART II: If the casualty involved on-track equipment, select the code that best

describes the type of on-track equipment involved, and enter appropriate

code listed in Appendix F. When using "Other", a narrative must be

provided in item 5s.

PART III: Select the appropriate code that best identifies the location of the casualty

being reported listed in Appendix F. When using "Other" a narrative must

be provided in item 5s.

 5l. Event

From Appendix F, select the code which best describes the event that caused the injury. If

the code selected does not sufficiently describe the "Event", provide further description in

the Narrative. 

 5m. Result

From Appendix F, select the code which best describes additional information about the

tools, machinery, appliances, structures, surfaces, etc., associated with the injury. You

should try to use codes that provide additional information. For example, if the event code

identified using "hand tools", the entry in this block could be used to identify that the tool

was a "gripping" type tool. If the code selected does not sufficiently describe the "Result",

provide further description in the Narrative. 

 5n. Cause
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From Appendix F, select the code which best describes what caused the event entered in

item 51. If the code you have selected does not sufficiently describe the "Cause”, provide

further description in the Narrative. 

 5o. Number of Days Away From Work

If the person reported is an employee of the reporting railroad, enter the number of days

that the employee was away from work because of the injury or illness. If there were no

such days, or a fatality is being reported, enter "0". If the person is not a railroad

employee, enter "N/A".

 5p. Number of Days Restricted

If the person being reported is an employee of the reporting railroad, enter the number of

days that the employee was restricted from work due to the injury or illness. If there were

no such days, or a fatality is being reported, enter "0". If the person is not a railroad

employee, enter "N/A".

 5q. Exposure to Hazmat

Enter “Y” (for “yes”) if an exposure to hazardous material caused, or was a contributing

factor to, the condition being reported for this individual. 

 5r. Termination or Permanent Transfer

If the employee was suspended from employment or permanently transferred to a new

position, enter "Y"; otherwise, enter "N". For non-employees, the block is to be left blank. 

 5s. Narrative

The railroad can further explain unusual circumstances surrounding a worker's injury or

illness using up to 250 characters. Completion of this narrative is mandatory for the

reporting railroad unless the injury or illness can be adequately described using all other

entries (information blocks) on the form. Do not record personal identifiers, e.g., names,

Social Security Numbers, or payroll identifications.

E. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q1. What are the basic questions that must be answered in deciding whether or not to report an

employee’s injury?

A1. (1) Does information exist that indicates that the employee sustained harm/trauma while in

the work environment? The work environment is primarily composed of: (a) the

employer's premises, and (b) other locations where the employee is engaged in workrelated activities or is present as a condition of his or her employment. When an employee
FORM FRA F 6180.55a - Continued

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is off the employer's premises, a work relationship must be established; when on the

premises, this relationship is presumed.

(2) Did the injury result in any of the following consequences?

a. Require medical treatment beyond first aid.

b. Cause the employee to be absent for one or more days/shifts.

c. Cause the employee to be restricted at work.

d. Cause transfer to another job.

e. Cause termination because of the injury.

f. Cause loss of consciousness.

If the answer to these two questions is “yes”, then the injury is almost always reportable.

Note: Injuries of contractors or volunteers are reportable only if they require medical 

treatment or result in death.

Q2. Other industries report worker injuries and occupational illnesses to the Occupational

Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Are the reporting requirements for railroads

significantly different than those that OSHA has in place for other industries?

A2. No. Railroads have been required to make accident reports to the Federal Government

since at least 1910. When the Occupational Safety and Health Act was enacted in 1970

(see 29 U.S.C. § 651 and 29 CFR Part 1904), the FRA made a commitment to the

Department of Labor (DOL) to revise our reporting definitions so that they would be

comparable to those used by other industries. The purpose was to avoid imposing two

separate reporting requirements for one industry, and to collect statistics that could be

included in DOL's national accounting of workplace injuries and illnesses. The FRA has a

close working relationship with OSHA and meets routinely with their staff to ensure that

FRA's requirements and interpretations are consistent with OSHA's. The definitions and

language used in this Guide in regard to employee reporting were, for the most part,

obtained from OSHA.

Q3. I understand that OSHA is considering some changes in the future. Will FRA amend its

own guidelines in anticipation of this?

A3. The FRA will not change its guidelines in anticipation of a possible modification in

OSHA's requirements. OSHA has conducted extensive rulemaking and is reviewing

testimony and other documentation provided in response to their proposed changes. They

have not reached a final decision as to what changes may eventually be implemented. 

Because FRA is committed to collecting data that are comparable to those reported by

other industries; if, and when, OSHA publishes its final rule and announces an
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implementation date, then the FRA will seriously consider whether to modify its

requirements accordingly. 

Q4. What if the injury was caused by negligence on the part of the employee or was a result of

events beyond the railroad's control, e.g., an employee was assaulted by a trespasser;

would this make a difference in terms of whether the injury must be reported?

A4. No. Responsibility or fault is not a consideration when deciding whether or not to report.

Q5. Our railroad has a counseling and assistance program that is available to employees and

their immediate family members. Workers are encouraged to use this service, since it

provides an opportunity to discuss problems that may or may not be work-related, but can

affect employee morale and work performance. Because of the need to maintain

confidentiality, I may not be aware when an employee is being treated for a work-related

emotional disorder. 

Similar to this, we allow employees who have been involved in an accident to take a

personal day off if they indicate they were "shaken up", i.e., they expressed some need to

have time off to recover from being involved in an accident. These employees often do not 

have physical injuries nor do they require professional counseling. How should we handle

these cases?

A5. The regulation does not require an employee to disclose when, and for what reason, he or

she is seeking counseling through company sponsored programs. This can present unique

problems for the reporting officer, since the condition that an employee is being treated for

may not be work-related. An effective internal control plan can help detect the more

serious of these, e.g., there may be other sources within your organization that have

documentation of the condition and its causes. If such documentation does not exist, then

there may be insufficient information upon which to base a decision to report. (Also see

question and answer 22 of this chapter.)

The second situation would not generally be reportable, since there are no injuries, nor has

there been a diagnosis by a QHCP that a work-related emotional trauma condition exists. 

However, if an employee remains away from work for longer than a single shift, it may be

an indication that the employee may have a more serious condition that requires evaluation

by a professional.

Q6. Must an employee be involved in a specific job task for an injury or illness to be

reportable?
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A6. No. For a case to be reportable, the worker must have been an employee of the railroad at

the time of the injury. Workers are considered employees while in pay status. In this

context, “pay status”, refers to the overall employment relationship whereby the worker is

receiving wages or some other form of compensation from the railroad for services

rendered. It does not mean that the worker must be involved in some specific job task at

the time of the injury or illness exposure for the case to be reportable, or that cases are

reportable only if they occur during hours for which wages are paid.

Q7. I was hurt on the job, and my supervisor accompanied me to the clinic. My supervisor

gave the nurse a card to give to the doctor that would be examining me. Our railroad

utilizes a card that describes various treatments or therapies that require a report of the 

injury be made to the FRA, and appears to encourage or suggest that the doctor consider

treatment of a nonreportable nature. I feel this may unduly influence the medical facility

and could affect the treatment I would have otherwise received had the card not been

presented. Since my employer pays for the medical expenses, I am concerned that

employees will be taken to treatment centers where this practice exists. The intent seems

more to reduce reportable cases, rather than ensuring that the health care professional

provides treatment that he or she believes is appropriate for the injury. Does FRA

authorize the use of such cards or other communications of this nature to health care

providers?

A7. No. The FRA is extremely concerned that injured workers receive proper medical

treatment. We do not condone the use of any form or medical card that could adversely

influence treatment by encouraging the use of nonreportable treatment. 

Such practices are not only discouraged by the FRA, but also may in certain circumstances

constitute a violation of Part 225 subject to a civil penalty against the carrier or supervisor

who engages in such practices.

Q8. Are there any requirements if the decision is made to not report an injury?

A8. The decision cannot be an arbitrary one. It should be made in accordance with the

requirements outlined in the regulation and in the guidance contained in this manual. If you

are certain that a particular situation is outside the scope of the reporting requirements, then

the basis on which this determination was made must be thoroughly documented before the

case may be omitted from the monthly submission. If there is any uncertainty as to whether

or not to report an incident, it is recommended that a report be made. Later, as additional

information is developed, or following consultation with FRA Office of Safety Assurance

and Compliance personnel, a request may be made to delete the incident from your file. 
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The FRA, however, cannot delegate authority to decide matters of judgment when facts are

in dispute. In such cases the final decision as to reportability shall be that of the FRA. In

arriving at this decision, the FRA will review all investigatory material associated with

the case; including, the initial report filed by the affected person, witness statements,

interviews, transcripts of hearings, medical records, time and attendance records, and the

like.

Q9. What is the time limit for reporting cases? Suppose a worker says he was injured two 

weeks ago but there was no record or report of it at that time. Is it subsequently 

reportable on Form FRA F 6180.55a?

A9. Yes. If it is established that a reportable injury did occur, it must be included on the form

FRA F 6180.55a, even though the determination was made several weeks after the injury

occurred. The injury is reportable for the month in which the event or exposure occurred

that subsequently resulted in a reportable injury. There is no time limit for reporting cases.

Q10. Does going to a hospital for observation make a work-related injury reportable?

A10. No, provided there was no independent basis for reportability, such as, medical treatment,

loss of consciousness, restricted work activity, or job transfer.

Q11. One of our employees who was a train crew member sustained a minor injury. He was

sent to a medical facility for examination. The injury only required first aid treatment. 

However, before he could return to work, his assignment left. Since there was no other

train assignment available to him, his supervisor sent him home. Would we need to report

this incident on the basis of restriction on the day of the injury?

A11. No. Time spent going to and coming from a medical examination is exempt from this

particular requirement. The employee did not sustain a reportable injury in this example. 

He also had no authority to hold the train movement until his return. A report would not be

required in situations such as this. It should be noted, however, that there may be instances

when an employee is instructed by a medical professional to take the remainder of the day

off because of his or her condition. If this occurs, the case should be evaluated on the basis

of restriction on the day of the injury.

Q12. How do you differentiate between a new incident and the recurrence or further

complication of a previous injury or illness? What is the difference between these two

situations for FRA reporting purposes?

A12. Railroads are required to make new entries on their Form FRA F 6180.55a for each new

reportable injury or illness. New entries should not be made for the recurrence of
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symptoms from previous cases. However, any additional days away from work or days of

restricted activity should be added to the earlier case if they occur within 365 calendar

days from the date the injury became reportable.

Injuries. The aggravation of a previous injury almost always results from some new

incident involving the employee (such as a slip, trip, fall, sharp twist, or sudden

movement.) Consequently, these new incidents should be reported as new cases on the

Form FRA F 6180.55a, assuming they meet the criteria for reporting found in the guide.

Illnesses. Deciding whether the emergence of illness symptoms constitutes a new event or

the recurrence of a previous illness is more complex. Generally, each occupational illness

should be reported with a separate entry on the Form FRA F 6180.55a. However, certain

illnesses, such as silicosis, may have prolonged effects which recur over time. The

recurrence of these symptoms should not be reported as a new case on Form FRA F

6180.55a.

The recurrence of symptoms of previous illnesses may require adjustment of entries on the

log for previously reported illnesses to reflect possible changes in the extent or outcome of

the particular case.

Some occupational illnesses, such as certain dermatitis or respiratory conditions, may

recur as the result of new exposures to sensitizing agents, and should be reported as new

cases.

Q13. When does an occupational illness become reportable? Some illness conditions are

caused by an exposure that may have occurred in a previous year. Should we file a late

report?

A13. No. An occupational illness is reportable in the year in which the diagnosis was made and

work relationship established.

Q14. Your June 18, 1996, revision of Part 225 uses the term "worker on duty" which can include

contractors, volunteers, etc. What will be used for the calculation of employee

injury/illness rates?

A14. We will continue to limit the calculation of railroad employee injury/illness ratios to those

workers identified as Class A, "Worker on Duty--Employee", using the hours worked by

these employees. Likewise, when we transmit the record of railroad employees injury and

occupational illness to OSHA, only those individuals recorded as Class A will be

included. Note that only the occupational illness of a Worker on Duty-Employee (Class A)
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is reportable. Also note the different criteria for reporting injuries of railroad employees

as opposed to other persons, such as contractors and volunteers. 

Q15. Why did you adopt the term “worker on duty”?

A15. The FRA adopted the term “worker on duty” in order to better identify individuals who are

on the premises for work related purposes connected with the operation of the railroad. 

Since the initial rule went into effect in 1975, there has been a trend to contract out certain

activities that were previously performed almost exclusively by railroad employees. Prior

to 1997, when these individuals were hurt in the workplace, they were recorded as

nontrespassers or contractors. For the contractor classification, there was no distinction

between those contractors involved in safety-sensitive functions (e.g., track maintenance)

and those involved in other functions.

Worker protection is a key element of FRA's safety programs. This change was needed to

obtain a better accounting of the total number of workers hurt while engaged in the

operation or maintenance of a railroad, regardless of who their employer was, or if they

were volunteering their services.

Q16. Are there any additional requirements related to this reclassification? For instance, will

we need to collect hours for these individuals?

A16. In order to obtain a better understanding of the services that these individuals provide, the

railroad is required to assign a job code that best describes the volunteer or contractor’s

responsibilities at the time he or she was injured to the extent of being killed or requiring 

medical treatment. However, occupational illnesses of persons classified as Worker on

Duty--Volunteer or Worker on Duty--Contractor are not reportable. Also, the hours

worked by volunteers and contractors are not to be reported.

Q17. Should an employee's preexisting condition be taken into account when making FRA

reporting determinations?

A17. A preexisting conditions usually does not affect the determination of reportability except

for the recurrence of symptoms of work-related illnesses discussed above. A railroad

should report each case resulting from a new event (e.g., a slip, trip, fall, or overexertion)

and each exposure that results in a reportable work injury or illness regardless of the

employee's preexisting condition. This is essential to the maintenance of a workable

system that produces statistics that accurately reflect the incidence (not prevalence) of

work injuries and illness.
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Q18. Since preexisting conditions usually do not affect a determination of reportability, does this

mean that if an employee is hired with a known physical defect, a work accident partially

attributable to this defect would usually result in a reportable case?

A18. Yes. An employee's physical defect or preexisting physical condition usually does not

affect the determination of reportability. If such a case results from an event or exposure in

the work environment and meets the other criteria for reportability, the railroad must enter

it on the Form FRA F 6180.55a without regard to the employee's preexisting physical

condition. If on the other hand, an injury results solely from physical defect (i.e., employee

falls while standing when trick knee gives way and there is no environmental factor), it is

not occupational. However, if the work environment or a work event contributes in any

way (e.g., employee steps on a stone or slips, trick knee gives way, and he falls), any

resulting injury is occupational. In order for an aggravation of a preexisting condition to be

nonreportable, it must be clearly demonstrated that the work environment was not a

primary or contributing factor. For example, an employee experiences severe pain in his

jaw. He is taken to a dentist where it is determined that there is an abscessed tooth which

has become infected. A root canal is performed, and antibiotics are prescribed. 

Q19. If an employee's back goes out while performing routine activity at work and the employee

was not involved in any stressful activity, such as lifting a heavy object, is the case

reportable?

A19. Stressful activity is not required to make a case reportable. If an event (such as a slip, trip,

fall, sharp twist) occurred in the work environment that caused or contributed to the injury,

the case would be reportable. This assumes it meets the other requirements for

reportability.

If the backache is known to result from some nonwork-related activity outside the work

environment and merely surfaces at work, then the railroad need not report the case. In

these situations, railroads should fully document the reasons they feel the case is not workrelated.

Q20. Must there be an identifiable event or exposure in the work environment for a case to be

reportable? What if someone experiences a backache, but cannot identify the particular

movement which caused the injury?

A20. Usually, there will be an identifiable event or exposure to which the railroad or employee

can attribute the injury or illness. However, this is not necessary for reporting purposes. If

it seems more likely than not that an event, activity, exposure, motion, etc. in the work

environment either caused or contributed to the injury, the case is reportable, even though

the exact time or location of the particular event or exposure cannot be identified.
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Q21. Must a railroad report a case if an employee alleges that an injury or illness has occurred

but refuses to release any medical records related to the alleged injury or illness? 

A21. Medical verification is not required for reportability. However, a railroad has the

responsibility to make good-faith reporting determinations, and these decisions must be

based upon whatever documentation is available. If a railroad questions the validity of an

employee's alleged injury or illness and there is no substantive or medical documentation

to support the allegation, the railroad need not report the case. However, if at a later date

the appropriate information is received that supports the employee's allegation of injury or

illness, then a late report must be made.

Q22. Is an injury of an employee in a company rest room, hallway, or cafeteria considered to be

work-related?

A22. Yes. These areas are generally all considered to be part of the railroad's premises and

constitute part of the work environment. Injuries occurring in the work environment are

considered work-related. The specific activity the employee was engaged in at the time of

the injury is not the controlling factor.

Q23. We are the contract carrier for a number of commuter operations. In the past, we have

included accidents/incidents that occurred in connection with these operations in the counts

for our own railroad. Can you briefly describe what the reporting requirements are in

these situations?

A23. Each commuter railroad must report individually using an identifier unique to that

operation. If you are operating a commuter service under contract, all accident/incident

information associated with that operation must be reported under the reporting marks of

that railroad. This includes all operational data, e.g., train miles, employee hours,

passengers transported, passenger train miles. All accountable and reportable

accidents/incidents that occur in connection with this operation are to be recorded under

the initials assigned to that operation. In order to identify when your employees are hurt

while engaged in these operations, the reporting initials of your railroad must appear as the

first portion of the incident number for the commuter railroad. For example, the commuter

railroad is assigned the code AAAA, and your railroad initials are XXXX. One of your

employees is hurt while operating train for AAAA. Railroad AAAA will submit a report

that contains an entry on Form FRA F 6180.55a that has an accident/incident number

beginning with XXXX and followed by additional numbers or letters that make the incident

number unique for the month, e.g., XXXX12345A.

When submitting the accident/incident report for your railroad, you must exclude all

operational data and accidents/incidents that have been reported for the entity to which
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your railroad is under contract. Using the example above, you would omit this injury on

your railroad's report, since it was included on the report for the commuter railroad.

Q24. Is every injury or illness that occurs on the railroad's premises considered to be workrelated?

A24. No. The general rule is that all injuries and illnesses that result from events or exposures

occurring on the railroad's premises are probably work-related. The nature of the activity

which the employee is engaged in at the time of the event or exposure, the degree of

railroad control over the employee's activity, the preventability of the incident, or the

concept of fault do not necessarily affect this determination.

There are cases which occur on the railroad's premises that do not seem to have anything to

do with the work, but must still be reported to maintain the simplicity of the reporting

criteria. (Some examples are an employee choking while eating lunch in company

cafeteria; and an employee being injured as a result of an assault.) These are included to

keep relatively simple reporting boundaries necessary for maintaining a workable system. 

Note, however, that § 225.15 provides that a railroad need not report the following four

types of accidents/incidents: (i) casualties at grade crossings that do not involve the

presence or operation of on-track equipment or the presence of railroad employees then

engaged in the operation of a railroad; (ii) casualties in or about living quarters not arising

from the operation of a railroad; (iii) suicides as determined by a coroner or other public

authority; or (iv) attempted suicides.

Q25. Does a railroad have to report an injury on the railroad's premises that occurs to an

employee as a result of horseplay? Would the railroad have to report an injury if it

resulted from robbery?

A25. Yes. Both would be reportable. Activities on the railroad's premises are presumed to be

work-related. The basis for determining work relationship for FRA reporting purposes is

that the event occurred in the work environment.

Q26. What about injuries and illnesses resulting from events or exposures off premises? 

A26. When an employee is off the railroad's premises and suffers an injury or an illness

exposure, a work relationship must be established. To be engaged in a work-related

activity off premises, the employee must have been performing some job, task, or service

for the railroad, or must have been present at the off-premises location in connection with

his or her employment. If the employee is off the railroad's premises, and leaves the

normal area of operations entirely for his or her own purpose, then these activities would

not be considered work-related.
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Q27. Would an injury be reportable that took place after a person checked into work, but

occurred while he or she was off the company premises on an errand?

A27. The case is reportable if the employee was engaged in a work-related activity or if the

person's presence at the location of the injury was required by his or her job. If the errand

was solely personal in nature, the injury should not be reported. However, if there is any

work relationship, e.g., employee was instructed to pick up meals for members of work

crew, then the case would be reportable.

Q28. Are employees in travel status treated differently?

A28. An employee who travels in connection with his or her employment shall be considered to

be engaged in work-related activities during the time he or she spends in the interest of the

company, including, but not limited to, travel to and from work sites, attending training

seminars and the like. However, an injury/illness would not be reportable if it occurred

during normal living activities (e.g., eating, sleeping, recreation); or if the employee

deviates from a reasonably direct route of travel (e.g., side trip for vacation or other

personal reasons). He or she would again be considered to be engaged in work-related

activities upon returning to the normal route of travel.

When a traveling employee checks into a hotel or motel, the employee establishes a home

away from home. Therefore, injuries that occur while in these living quarters would not be

reportable if a work relationship did not exist. If an employee is provided transportation

to and from work sites, any reportable injury during such transit is to be recorded as an

employee "not on duty" (Class B person).

Q29. One of our employees was sent by our railroad to a convention sponsored by various

equipment manufacturers and suppliers. While there, he suffered an injury that required

medical treatment. Do we have to report this case?

A29. Yes. A report for an injury to an employee on duty must be prepared even if the railroad

did not sponsor the event, since the employee's attendance at this function was required by

his employer.

Q30. Is one-time treatment the same as first aid treatment?

A30. No. First aid is limited to one-time treatment and subsequent observations and involves

treatment of only minor injuries, not emergency treatment of serious injuries.

It is important to remember that physicians and other medical professionals often treat

minor injuries. If the treatment is limited to first aid, and none of the other criteria is
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satisfied, then a report is not required. Conversely, medical treatment can be administered

by persons other than a physician or medical professional.

Medical treatment is often given on a one-time basis. For this reason one-time treatment

cannot be equated to first aid treatment. It is impossible to give a complete list of those

treatments that are considered to be reportable and those that represent first aid only;

however, a compilation of common types of treatment and the category they fall into can be

found in the reporting guide.

Q31. It is not uncommon for a medical professional to apply a butterfly adhesive or steri-strip to

close a cut or laceration. Would this be considered first aid or medical treatment?

A31. The use of these items constitutes medical treatment since they are used to treat more

serious cuts and are often used in lieu of sutures.

Q32. One of our employees got an object in his eye. He was taken to the medical center where

the eye was irrigated. An eye patch was placed over the affected eye. After leaving the

medical center the employee removed the eye patch and threw it away. Do we need to

report this?

A32. Yes. The medical professional who applied the patch thought that it was a necessary

treatment for the type of injury sustained. In order to keep the reporting decision

consistent, any application of an eye patch by a medical professional is medical treatment

and therefore the object in the employees eye is a reportable injury.

Q33. Is an injury that results in a chipped or broken tooth reportable?

A33. These injuries would normally be reportable, since they usually require medical treatment.

Q34. One of our employees sustained a serious injury. Later, it was established during a 

hearing that the injury was the result of a rules violation on the part of the employee. The

employee was terminated because of the rules violation. When do we discontinue the

counting of days away from work.

A34. The purpose of counting days away from work is to provide an additional measure of the

severity of an injury. If the employee was unable to return to work because of the

termination, you must provide an estimate of the additional time the employee would have

been absent because of the injury. If the days away from work were entirely unconnected

with the injury (e.g., plant closing or scheduled seasonal layoff), then the count can cease at

this time. However, discipline assessed following an injury cannot be used to stop the
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counting of days if the employee would have been unable to return to work had the

discipline had not been imposed.

Q35. If an employee has a minor scratch but the physician gives him a tetanus shot anyway, does

this constitute medical treatment and make the case reportable?

A35. A tetanus shot should not be regarded as medical treatment. Consequently, the case would

not be reportable unless other treatment that constituted medical treatment was provided. 

However, if the employee suffered some reaction or complication from the injection,

requiring medical treatment, then the case would be reportable.

Q36. Does a rabies vaccination constitute medical treatment?

A36. Yes. A rabies vaccination constitutes medical treatment since it is usually given only when

considered absolutely necessary. If the rabies vaccination involves a series of injections,

then it is medical treatment on the additional ground that a series of injections is far more

extensive than first aid.

Q37. One of our security personnel punctured his finger on a syringe while searching a

trespasser. As a result, he was given an injection of medication to prevent hepatitis. 

Would this be reportable?

A37. Yes. Under these circumstances, the employee was at significant risk of contracting

hepititis if this injection was not given. With the exception of a tetanus shot, FRA

considers all injections in response to a condition or possible exposure to be medical

treatment.

Q38. What is the difference between the terms "preventive" and "precautionary" measures?

 

A38. "Preventive" measures are treatments that are given prior to the occurrence of an injury or

illness. An example of a preventive measure would be an influenza shot administered

prior to the flu season. “Precautionary” measures, on the other hand, generally involve

additional diagnostic tests that are ordered to determine if an injury occurred.

Q39. Is a series of treatments given by a chiropractor considered medical treatment?

A39. Yes. When required to treat a work-related injury, this is considered medical treatment

since it requires specialized skills beyond first aid.

Q40. Sometimes an employee may choose not to obtain or take a prescribed medication. How

should we handle these cases?
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A40. Issuance of a prescription medication is reportable if the instructions direct the employee

to take multiple doses of the medication over a period of time, even if the employee

chooses not to obtain or take the prescription.

Q41. What are the requirements for reporting injuries to persons other than railroad employees?

A41. Employee injuries become reportable when any of a number of consequences result. 

Among these are instances when the injury interferes with the employee's ability to perform

all aspects of his or her job, e.g., being absent from work or restricted while at work. 

Injuries to nonemployees such as volunteers and contractors do not include this criteria,

and become reportable only when medical treatment (beyond first aid) is administered or

death results from the injury.

Q42. A passenger is hurt and receives only first aid treatment. After the report for that month has

been prepared it is discovered that the claims department has processed additional bills

showing that medical treatment was subsequently provided; however, the reporting officer

was not advised of this. The railroad was cited for failure to report the case during an

audit by a FRA inspector. How can these types of occurrences be avoided?

A42. There must be ongoing communication and coordination with other departments to ensure

that all qualifying events are properly reported. The lack of adequate internal control

procedures to prevent such an occurrence cannot be used to avoid the imposition of

penalties for failure to report. 

Q43. Is there any difference in reporting requirements for the following cases?

A trespasser was walking over a trestle when a train suddenly came

in sight. He jumped from the trestle to avoid being struck and broke

a leg.

A child was trespassing on a railroad bridge and fell to his death. 

There was no evidence that a train or railroad employees were

present at the time of the accident.

A43. No. Both situations are reportable. 

Q44. Could you provide some examples of situations involving reportable injuries suffered by a

"Worker on Duty--Volunteer", a "Volunteer--Other", a "Worker on Duty--Contractor", and

a "Contractor--Other" in the course of different types of work performed?
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A44. Example 1. A volunteer operates a locomotive for an excursion railroad. Operation of a

locomotive clearly falls within the realm of "operation of on-track equipment”. If the

volunteer sustains a reportable injury (i.e. , an injury resulting in death or requiring

medical treatment) during operation of the locomotive, then the incident is reported as an

injury to a "Worker on Duty--Volunteer" (Class H), with the applicable job code series.

Example 2. A volunteer sits in a booth selling tickets for train rides on a tourist railroad

that operates on the general system and also clears vegetation adjacent to its roadbed. 

Under 49 CFR § 213.37, vegetation is to be cleared from the roadbed for safe rail

operations; vegetation clearing is thus an aspect of maintaining roadbed under

§ 209.303(b)(1) and, therefore, considered a "safety-sensitive function”. Any injury

sustained by the volunteer during the vegetation clearing is classified as one to a "Worker

on Duty--Volunteer" (Class H). If any reportable injury is sustained by the volunteer

during the process of selling tickets, then such injury is classified as one to a "Volunteer--

Other" (Class I). If, however, the volunteer sells tickets and then clears vegetation during

the same tour, then all injuries are considered as those attributable to a "Worker on Duty--

Volunteer" (Class H). Therefore, when a volunteer is engaged in "mixed service”, the

railroad must report all reportable injuries for that volunteer as those to a "Worker on

Duty--Volunteer" (Class H) on Form FRA F 6180.55a. Conversely, when a contractor

employee is engaged in such “mixed service” on railroad property, the railroad must report

all reportable injuries for that contractor employee as those to a "Worker on Duty--

Contractor" (Class F) on Form FRA F 6180.55a, with the applicable job code series of the

service performed. Also note that if the volunteer in this example is working for a tourist

railroad that operates exclusively off the general system and if the incident that causes his

injury is classified as a non-train incident that doesn’t involve operational on-track

equipment, then Part 225 does not require the tourist railroad to report the injury at all. 

See § 225.3.

Example 3. The employee of a contractor performs payroll as well as time-and-attendance

functions for a railroad on railroad property. Such functions are not considered "safetysensitive" because they are not related to the continued safety of the railroad and do not fall

under the definition of any "safety-sensitive function" as defined in § 209.303. Thus, an

injury sustained by this contractor performing those tasks is reported as that to a

"Contractor--Other" (Class G).

Example 4. A contractor employee inspects and replaces roller bearings for the reporting

railroad on the railroad's property. Injuries sustained by this contractor are reported as

those to a "Worker on Duty--Contractor" (Class F) on Form FRA F 6180.55a. Under 49

CFR § 215.113, cars with defective roller bearings should not be in service, thus any

injury associated with replacement of roller bearings is a "safety-sensitive function"

qualifying as an injury attributable to a "Worker on Duty--Contractor" (Class F). In
FORM FRA F 6180.55a - Continued

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contrast, if this same injury was sustained by a contractor employee at the contractor's

facility off railroad property, then such injury would not be reported to FRA.

Q45. Our employees are frequently tested for drug or alcohol use after an accident/incident. 

Company policy prohibits an employee from returning to work until the results of the tests

are known and it is established that there is no risk factor due to impairment. If the

worker's condition is not otherwise reportable, must we make a report because of the days

the employee was held out of service while awaiting test results?

A45. These cases are to be evaluated solely on the basis of the injury and its consequences. If

the condition would have caused the employee to be absent from work had there been no

testing, then a report must be made. The same rule applies when your company conducts

random testing for which a similar policy is in effect. If an employee is randomly tested

and is required to remain off duty until the results come back, an accountable condition has

not occurred and a report is not necessary. (Also see questions Q12 and Q34.)

Q46. We have a company physician who participates in the reporting process. This individual

believes that sometimes the initial treatment given by other medical professionals (e.g., in

an emergency room, in a private clinic, or by the employee’s family doctor) is

"inappropriate”. An example is the use of prescription medication for the relief of pain

when "over-the-counter" could have been used. May we omit a case, or request that a

previously reported incident be deleted, based on this determination?

A46. The decision to report the case to the FRA should be based on the treatment given by the

initial qualified health care professional in situations such as this.

Q47. One of our employees sustained a minor injury and was taken to a medical facility for

evaluation and treatment. The injury only required first-aid treatment, which was

administered by the examining physician. The doctor did recommend that the worker take

a day or so off. The employee determined that this was not necessary and returned to work

without any restriction. He recorded this in his signed incident report. You indicated

previously that if instructions are given to obtain "prescription" medication to be taken in

multiple dosages, that these cases are to be reported even if the medication is not used. 

Does this same type of guidance apply in situations involving recommendation that time be

taken off, but the employee did not do so?

A47. No. The employee has an integral role in the reporting process. Since the employee has

documented that he was able to return to work without restriction, the case cannot be

reportable based on days away from work. Requiring a report under these circumstances

would result in erroneous data being submitted. It appears that the only information used in

making such a decision is the physician's recommendation. But, since the employee did
FORM FRA F 6180.55a - Continued

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Chapter 6 - Page 34 F 6180.55a

return to work, it would be incorrect to record a count of days away from work that did not

occur. None of the consequences that make an injury reportable have been met in this

example.

We rely on the treating physician medical expertise in deciding which medical treatment is

appropriate for the condition. However, the employee does have a say in his or her ability

to return to work. Conversely, there may be injuries where an employee received

reportable medical treatment, but the doctor did not initially feel that days absent from

work would be needed. Later, the employee finds it necessary to call in and request a day

off because of the injury. If this occurs, then a count of these days must be maintained, even

though the initial examination did not indicate that this may be necessary.

Q48. Many of our employees bring their own lunches onto the premises. I understand why you

chose to include incidents where employees are hurt or become ill as a result of eating

food prepared in a cafeteria, or otherwise made available, on our property. However, is it

necessary to report conditions that occur when an employee is eating or drinking food that

was brought from home?

A48. If the condition is solely the result of eating or drinking food that the employee brought into

the work environment from an outside source, and provided there are no contributing

environmental or occupational factors, then a report would not be required. For example,

the employee was eating a chicken salad sandwich that was made at home and broke a

tooth on a bone fragment embedded in the sandwich.

F. COMMON REPORTING ERRORS

All casualties resulting from a single event must be assigned the same accident/incident (injury)

number, and all forms used to report the event must use this number. 

The current report month submission is only to contain casualties being reported for that month. 

Late reports or updates to a previously reported event must not be included in your current month

package. These must be filed separately and have an attached letter of explanation. See

§ 225.13.
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Chapter 7 - Page 1 F 6180.54

CHAPTER 7 - FORM FRA F 6180.54

Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Report

A. REQUIREMENT

Collisions, derailments, fires, explosions, acts of God, or other events involving the operation of

railroad on-track equipment (standing or moving) and causing reportable damages greater than the

reporting threshold for the year in which the accident/incident occurred must be reported using

Form FRA F 6180.54. The reporting threshold for calendar years 1991-1996 is $6,300. The

reporting threshold for calendar year 1997 is $6,500. See §§ 225.11, 225.19; 61 Fed. Reg.

60632 (Nov. 29, 1996).

Note: Additional form(s) must be completed whenever an employee's act, omission, or

physical condition is identified as the primary or contributing cause of a rail

equipment accident; see instructions for employee notification (forms 6180.81 and

6180.78). Here, “employee” includes persons classified as Worker on Duty--

Employee, Employee not on Duty, Worker on Duty--Contractor, or Worker on

Duty--Volunteer. See § 225.5 (“Employee human factor”). 

B. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS

An accident is frequently the culmination of a sequence of related events, and a variety of

conditions or circumstances may contribute to its occurrence. A complete record of all of these

would be beneficial in accident prevention analysis. However, it is not practical, even if it were

possible, to develop forms and codes that would capture every detail that may be associated with

the causes and resulting consequences of each accident. Therefore, the most appropriate

combination of available codes that best identifies the likely primary and any contributing cause,

and other factors, is to be used.

The limitations imposed by standardized reporting forms make it critical that the narrative portion

of the report provide additional information concerning those items that cannot be adequately

described on the coded portions of the form. The wide variation in the causes and circumstances

of accidents limits our ability to prepare a comprehensive list of items to include in your

discussion. We have attempted to identify some of these in the instruction for completing the

narrative portion of the report (item 50). In addition to these, you should include any information

that increases our knowledge of the underlying reasons why the accident occurred and its

consequences.

If the property of more than one railroad is involved in an accident/incident, the reporting

threshold is calculated by including the damages suffered by all of the railroads involved. When

total reportable damage to all railroads directly involved in an accident/incident exceeds the

reporting threshold, you must make a report even though your railroad's damages were below the

threshold.
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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A form must be completed for each consist (see Chapter 2 for definition) involved in an accident. 

The railroad responsible for the on-track equipment at the time of the accident, and only that

railroad, will report the consist. See § 225.23(c).

In joint operations, if the railroad having track maintenance responsibility did not also have ontrack rail equipment involved, a report containing the track information must be forwarded. The

items concerning the equipment consist are to be marked "N/A". See § 225.23(c).

Any railroad indicating the involvement of another railroad in the accident on its report must

promptly notify the other carrier (FRA may be contacted to obtain telephone numbers). You must

exchange information concerning the accident and verify, at a minimum, that:

1. the other railroad has a reporting responsibility;

2. total reportable damage exceeded the threshold; and,

3. information contained in both reports is consistent.

When there is disagreement concerning the items being reported, particularly the cause of the

accident, each railroad will include a discussion of these in the narrative portion of its report. The

back of the form or a separate sheet of paper is to be used when the front of the form is not

adequate for this purpose. 

Track information for accidents occurring on industry track of a non-reporting company is to be

reported by the railroad operating the on-track equipment. Damages to industry track and on-track

equipment are included in reportable damage. The word "Industry" is to be entered in item 3b to

identify an accident of this type.

A railroad need not report the following:

 1. Cars derailed on industry tracks by non-railroad employees or nonrailroad employee vandalism, providing there is no involvement of

railroad employees;

2. Damage to out-of-service cars resulting from high water or flooding,

e.g., empties placed on storage or repair track. This exclusion does

not apply if such cars are placed into a moving consist and as a

result of this damage, a reportable rail equipment accident results.
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 3 F 6180.54

When final cost figures are not available, estimated values are to be used. If an estimated value

was significantly in error, a corrected report must be forwarded. A significant difference is a 10%

variance between the damage amount reported to FRA and current cost figures.

Enter "N/A" for those items that do not apply to an accident, or for those items describing on-track

equipment that is the reporting responsibility of another railroad. All items must have an entry; do

not leave items blank. If "none" is the proper response to an item (for example, the number of cars

releasing hazardous material), then enter "0", not "N/A".

All casualties resulting from a rail equipment accident, in addition to being recorded on Form

FRA F 6180.54, must be reported individually on Form FRA F 6180.55a. If the accident was a

highway-rail crossing impact, a Form FRA F 6180.57 must also be completed by the railroad

responsible for the consist. 

Each accident/incident must have an identifying number unique within the reporting month. All

forms used by a carrier to report a single event must use the same accident/incident number. Do

not append additional numbers or letters on different forms for the same accident/incident. For

example, if a railroad has two consists involved in an accident, do not report one consist using the

reporting number “12345", and the other consist using the reporting number “12345-A”. The

reporting number must be exactly the same on both reports.

C. INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING FORM FRA F 6180.54

Item Instruction

 1. Name of Reporting Railroad

Enter the full name of the reporting railroad.

1a. Alphabetic Code

Enter the reporting railroad's alphabetic code found in Appendix A.

1b. Railroad Accident/Incident No.

Enter a unique identifying number for the accident/incident being reported. All reports

prepared in connection with this accident/incident must use the same reporting number. 

The report number may contain up to 10 numbers or alphabetic characters.

 2. Name of Other Railroad Involved in Train Accident/Incident

If an equipment consist operated by another railroad was involved in the accident, enter the

full name of that railroad. If more than one other railroad had a consist involved, list only

one name; include in the narrative portion of the form a reference to all railroads and the
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 4 F 6180.54

extent of their involvement. Be sure that any other railroad identified in the report is

notified.

2a. Alphabetic Code

Enter the alphabetic code of the railroad identified in item 2, as found in Appendix A..

2b. Railroad Accident/Incident No.

Enter the reporting number used by the railroad shown in item 2 to identify this

accident/incident.

 3. Name of Railroad Responsible for Track Maintenance

Enter the name of the railroad responsible for maintaining the track on which the

accident/incident occurred.

3a. Alphabetic Code

Enter the alphabetic code of the railroad identified in item 3.

3b. Railroad Accident/Incident Number

Enter the reporting number used by the railroad shown in item 3 to identify this

accident/incident.

 4. U.S. DOT-AAR Grade Crossing Identification Number

If the event being reported is a highway-rail crossing impact, enter the DOT-AAR crossing

identification number. (Note: the railroad responsible for the on-track equipment involved

in the impact must also complete a Form FRA F 6180.57. This report must have the same

report number as that used on Form FRA F 6180.54.) If an identification number has not

been assigned to the crossing, enter "Not assigned". 

 5. Date of Accident/Incident

Enter the date of the accident/incident.

 6. Time of Accident/Incident

Enter the time the accident/incident occurred and check the appropriate ("am" or "pm")

box. Do not use military time.

 7. Type of Accident/Incident

Identify the first event in the accident/incident from the list of codes on the form. The same

code is used for all reports filed for the accident.

 8. Cars Carrying HAZMAT [Hazardous Material]
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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If the equipment consist for which this report is being prepared contained cars which are

designated as transporting hazardous material, enter the total number of these cars,

including residue cars. If there were no such cars in the consist, enter a "0". If the report

is for track involvement only, enter "N/A". The entry in this item cannot be greater than the

total number of freight cars shown on line 1 of item 35.

 9. HAZMAT Cars Damaged/Derailed

If the entry in item 8 is greater than or equal to 1, enter the total number of hazardous

material cars that were damaged or derailed. If none, enter "0"; otherwise, enter "N/A". 

The number of cars in item 9 cannot exceed the number of cars listed in item 8.

10. Cars Releasing HAZMAT [Hazardous Material]

If any of the hazardous material cars counted in item 8 released any portion of its contents,

including fumes, enter the count of these cars. If none, enter "0"; otherwise, enter "N/A". 

This number cannot be greater than that shown in item 8. Describe the hazardous material

released in the narrative by name or the Standard Transportation Commodity Code

(STCC). (Note: Any release of hazardous material must also be reported on DOT form F

5800.1--see 49 CFR 171.15 and 171.16 for requirements.) 

11. People Evacuated

If the accident/incident resulted in an evacuation of the area because of an actual or a

potential exposure to hazardous material, enter the number of persons evacuated. This

number is to be reported only by the railroad responsible for the equipment consist

involved. 

If there were multiple consists involved in the accident, the total number of people

evacuated is to be shown on the report for the consist most directly responsible for the

evacuation. Precautionary evacuations and instances where it was later established that a

release of hazardous material did not occur are to be reported.

12. Division

Enter the full name of the division on which the accident occurred. If the railroad is not so

divided, enter the word "System". In the event of a joint accident involving AMTRAK, the

host railroad's division will apply.

13. Nearest City/Town

Enter the name of the nearest City/Town. 

14. Milepost
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 6 F 6180.54

If the accident occurred on a main line, branch line, or siding, enter the milepost number, to

the nearest tenth of a mile, at the location of the accident. If mileposts are not used, enter

"N/A". 

15. State Abbr.

Enter the appropriate State abbreviation and code, from Appendix B.

16. County

Enter the full name of the county or parish in which the accident occurred. 

17. Temperature

Enter the temperature (Fahrenheit) at the accident site at the time of the accident. If the

temperature was below zero, preface the temperature number with a minus (-) symbol.

18. Visibility

Select the most appropriate entry, and place in the code box. Make sure this entry does not

contradict the time given in item 6. For example, if the time of the accident was 1:30 pm, it

would be incorrect to code the visibility as "Dawn".

19. Weather

Select the most appropriate weather condition at the time and location of the accident, and

enter the code in the box provided.

20. Type of Track

Select the code that identifies the type of track on which the accident occurred, and enter it

in the box provided. Branch lines should be reported as main line, code "1".

21. Track Name/Number

Enter the name or number used to identify the track on which the accident occurred. If it is

a main track of a single-track line, enter "single main track".

22. FRA Track Class

Enter the class of track on which the reported consist was located at the time of the

accident. Classes of track are defined in the Federal Track Safety Standards (49 CFR Part

213). Excepted track should be entered as Class “X”.

 Maximum Speed 

 Track Freight Passenger

 Class Trains Trains 

 X 10 Prohibited
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 7 F 6180.54

 1 10 15

 2 25 30

 3 40 60

 4 60 80

 5 80 90

 6 110 110

23. Annual Track Density

If an accident occurred on a main track, enter the annual gross tonnage (in millions) over

this track; otherwise, enter "N/A".

24. Time Table Direction

If the consist identified on this report was either moving or temporarily stopped, enter the

code which describes the time table or schedule direction. If the equipment consist was a

car or a cut of cars standing on the track, enter "N/A".

25. Type of Equipment Consist

Select the code that best identifies the consist for which this report is being prepared, and

enter in the box provided. Be sure that this entry is consistent with the values given in

items 34 and 35.

For example: the codes "1", "2", "3", "7", and "8" are used for consists that contain a

locomotive unit. Therefore, line 1 of item 34 must show at least one locomotive in a box. 

If the code for a freight train is used, then line 1 of item 35 must show loaded and/or empty

freight cars. If the consist is a single car or cut of cars, there cannot be locomotives shown

in item 34, and there must be a car count shown in item 35. Many such comparisons exist;

be sure to check the interrelationship of information contained in all items related to the

equipment consist.

26. Was Equipment Attended?

If the equipment consist was attended by an employee enter "1"; otherwise, enter "2".

27. Train Number/Symbol

If the equipment consist can be identified by means of a train number, enter that train

number. Otherwise, enter the number of the locomotive unit from which the engineer was

controlling the consist. If the consist for which this report is being prepared did not

contain a locomotive, enter "N/A".

28. Speed
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 8 F 6180.54

List the speed (mph) at which the consist was travelling at the time of its involvement in the

accident. Enter "E" in the code box to indicate if this is estimated; or enter "R" for a

recorded speed. If this consist was stopped, enter a speed of "0".

29. Trailing Tons

If the equipment consist reported on this form is a freight train, work train, etc., enter the

gross tonnage, excluding locomotives, of the train. Enter "N/A" if the consist was a

passenger train, light locomotive(s), car(s), or a locomotive handling cars in switching

operations.

30. Method(s) of Operation

Identify the method(s) of railroad operation at the accident location by entering the

appropriate code(s) in the boxes. If an entry cannot be made using codes a through n, put

an "o" in the first code box and specify the operational method used in the narrative. The

back of the form may be used if necessary.

31. Principal Car/Unit

31a. Initial and Number

In the upper box (“First Involved”), list the initial and number of the first locomotive or car

in the consist being reported. 

If the consist was moving at the time of the accident, and the accident was caused by a

mechanical or an electrical failure on this consist (cause codes beginning with "E"), enter

the initial and number of the car or locomotive having the defective equipment in the lower

box (“Causing”). If a mechanical or electrical failure on a locomotive or car in this consist

did not cause the accident, enter "N/A".

The same entry will frequently appear in both upper and lower boxes, since the locomotive

or car with the mechanical or electrical failure will also be the first involved. If the

locomotive or car that caused the accident was contained in a different consist than the one

described in this report, do not identify it on the report for this consist. A reference to the

unit causing the accident may be made in the narrative portion of the report.

31b. Position in Train

In the upper box, enter the position within the consist of the locomotive unit or car

identified in the upper box of item 31a. When the consist contains a locomotive, count

from and include the first locomotive unit. If the consist was a moving cut of cars, count

from the leading end of the consist. If the consist was a single locomotive or moving car,

enter "1". If the consist was a standing car or a standing cut of cars, enter "N/A".
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 9 F 6180.54

If a locomotive unit or a car is identified in the lower box of item 31a, enter its position in

the lower box. Use the procedure described above.

Note: When entering the position of the car or locomotive in either box, be

sure that this value does not exceed the total length of the consist. 

This is determined by adding the total number of locomotives in line

1 of item 34 to the total number of cars shown in line 1 of item 35.

31c. Loaded

When the entry in the upper box of item 31a identifies a car, indicate if this car was loaded

or unloaded by entering "Yes" or "No" in the upper box. If a car is not identified in item

31a, enter "N/A".

If a car is identified in the lower box of item 31a, indicate if this car was loaded or

unloaded by entering "Yes" or "No" in the lower box. Otherwise, enter "N/A". 

32. Railroad employees tested for drug or alcohol impairment. If any employee was tested for

alcohol usage in connection with this accident, enter “A-”, followed by the number of

positive tests, in the first block. If any employee was tested for drug usage in connection

with this accident, enter “D-”, followed by the number of positive tests, in the second

block. If there were positive tests, but impairment is not reported as a cause of the

accident, then provide a brief explanation in the narrative of the basis for this

determination.

33. Was this consist transporting passengers?

Enter "y" (for “yes”) if the consist being reported on was transporting passengers;

otherwise enter "n" (for “no”). 

34. Locomotive Units [Number of]

On line 1 (“Total in Train”), enter in the appropriate box(es) the number of locomotive

units in this consist. If there were no locomotives in this consist, enter "0" in each of the

boxes.

For the locomotives shown in line 1, list on line 2 (“Total Derailed”) the number of these

that were derailed in the accident. Include locomotives that derailed following a collision,

explosion-detonation, etc., as well as those accidents identified as derailments in item 7.

35. Cars [Number of]
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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On line 1 (“Total in Equipment Consist”), enter in the appropriate box(es) the number of

cars contained in the consist. A passenger car is considered loaded if it contains one or

more passengers. Enter "0" in all boxes if the consist did not contain cars.

For the cars shown in line 1, list on line 2 (“Total Derailed”) the number of these that were

derailed in the accident.

Special Instruction:

When the consist contains articulated car(s), the count for these is to

be the number of platforms/units in such a car. This is necessary in

order to maintain comparability of train lengths. The narrative is to

contain a reference that articulated cars were included in the

consist.

36. Equipment Damage This Consist

Enter the amount of reportable damage sustained by the equipment consist for which this

report is being prepared. If this consist did not have reportable damage, enter "0". When

multiple forms are being used, do not show the damage to this consist on other reports.

When estimating damage costs, the labor costs to be reported are only the direct labor

costs to the railroad, e.g., hourly wages, transportation costs, and hotel expenses. The cost

of fringe benefits is excluded when calculating direct labor costs. Overhead is also

excluded when calculating damage costs due to the unacceptable non-uniform treatment of

overhead under the current process. 

For services performed by a contractor, a direct hourly labor cost is calculated by

multiplying the contractor's total labor hours charged to the railroad by the applicable

direct hourly wage rate for a railroad worker in that particular craft. However, if a

railroad cannot match the equivalent craft to the labor hours spent by a contractor, then the

railroad must use the loaded rate, i.e., the cost by hour for labor, fringe benefits, and other

costs and fees for services charged by the contractor for the tasks associated with the

repair of the track, equipment, and structures due to the train accident.

The current method used to calculate material costs, i.e., depreciated value estimates, will

continue to be used by all railroads. 

37. Track, Signal, Way & Structure Damage

The railroad responsible for maintaining the track on which the accident/incident occurred

will enter the cost of damages to the track, signals, roadbed, track structures, etc. (A report

must be provided even when the track damage is zero (0).) Other railroads will enter
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 11 F 6180.54

"N/A". If the railroad responsible for the track maintenance is filing reports for multiple

consists involved in the accident, only one of these reports will contain the total damage

incurred.

38. Primary Cause Code

From the cause descriptions found in Appendix C, enter the code number which best

describes the cause of the accident. If none of the available causes is appropriate, enter

"M599" and fully describe the circumstances in the narrative. If the cause of the accident

is still under investigation when the report is due, enter "M505". When the final

determination is made, a corrected report must be forwarded.

All reports by a single railroad for a single accident must use the same cause code. When

multiple railroads are reporting the same accident, they should attempt to resolve any

differences concerning the cause prior to reporting. When this cannot be accomplished,

each railroad will identify what it considers to be the primary cause of the accident.

39. Contributing Cause Code

If there were one or more contributing causes, enter the code for the foremost contributing

cause. Otherwise, enter "N/A".

40-43. Number of Crew Members

Enter in the appropriate boxes the total number of crew members on the consist for which

this report is being filed. If the item does not apply, enter "N/A".

The operator of on-track maintenance machines is to be included in

the "Engineer" count.

44-45. Length of Time on Duty

 Show the length of time that the engineer/operator and conductor in charge of the

equipment consist had been on duty at the time the accident/incident occurred.

46-48. Casualties to:

Enter the total number of reportable casualties (fatalities and nonfatalities) on this consist. 

If none, enter "0".

Enter the total number of persons who sustained reportable injuries while on board, or as a

result of striking, being struck by, or who are otherwise hurt in connection with the

operation of this consist. This would include injuries to individuals who have jumped

from the consist prior to the accident. Do not report employees of another railroad.
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Note: All nonfatal casualties, including those being reported as

occupational illnesses, in the case of hazardous material releases,

are to be included.

Each casualty reported on this form, regardless of whether fatal or

nonfatal, must be reported individually on Form FRA F 6180.55a

using the same accident/incident report number in item 1b. Enter the

number of fatal and nonfatal casualties to the railroad employees,

train passengers, and others. 

49. Special Study Block

A "Special Study Block" (SSB) is for collection of information on specific accident issues

over a specified time period in response to particular hazards or associated railroad risks

that are of safety concern. FRA will notify the railroads in writing or, if appropriate,

through publication in the Federal Register, of the purpose and the type of information that

is to be collected. 

50. Narrative Description

A detailed narrative is basic to FRA's understanding of the factors leading to, and the

consequences arising from, an accident. While many minor accidents can be described in a

few brief comments, others are more complicated and require further clarification.

An adequate description of most accidents cannot be made in the limited space available in

block 50. The narrative can be continued on a separate sheet of paper attached to the

report. Because of the variety of factors associated with accidents, it is not possible to

give a comprehensive list of items you should include in your discussion. However, the

following are to be covered when appropriate:

Drug/alcohol involvement - Include a discussion of any drug/alcohol use

connected with this accident. If positive tests were made, but

usage/impairment was not determined to be a causal factor, explain the

basis of this determination.

Cause - Discuss any event(s) or circumstance(s) occurring prior to the

accident that has relevance to the accident. Provide additional information

concerning the reasons(s) for the accident when the causes found in

Appendix C do not sufficiently explain why the accident occurred.

Diesel Fuel Tank - Identify any leakage of locomotive diesel fuel resulting

from the accident. Identify the unit(s) by initial and number, the

manufacturer and model designation, the capacity of the fuel tank, the
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 13 F 6180.54

quantity of fuel released, and any consequence of the release. (Were there

a fire, environmental consequences, etc.?)

Hazardous Materials - Identify the initial and number of any car releasing

hazardous material. List the name and indicate the quantity of hazardous

material released. Report the number of fatalities and injuries resulting

from a direct exposure to the released substance. If there was an

evacuation, estimate the size of the affected area and the length of the

evacuation. 

Train Information - Identify any special characteristics of the consist being

reported, e.g., unit coal train, comprised of articulated cars.

Other Railroads - Describe how and to what extent the on-track equipment

of other railroads became involved in the accident.

Do not record personal identifiers, e.g., names, Social Security Numbers,

payroll identifications.

51. Typed/Printed Name and Title of Preparer

Type or print the name and title of the person responsible for preparing this report form.

52. Signature

Signature of the person shown in item 51.

53. Date

Date the signature was made in item 52.

D. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q1. Another railroad derailed some cars on our track. The damage to our track did not exceed

the threshold; however, their cars had extensive damage and the cost to repair/replace

these exceeded the threshold. Does our railroad need to complete a report since we did

not have significant damage to the track?

A1. Yes. The criterion for reporting is whether or not the total reportable damages for all

railroads having on-track equipment, track, signals, etc. involved in the accident exceeded

the threshold. You indicated that the equipment damage by itself exceeded this amount. 

Therefore, you must complete a report, but limit the damage you record to the amount

required to repair/replace your damaged track. The FRA uses the information received
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 14 F 6180.54

from all railroads to obtain a clearer picture of what caused the accidents and what the

consequences were.

Q2. A passenger train was en route between stations. A component failure and the resulting

electrical arching between the third rail and a collector plate caused a traction motor to

burn out. The train came to a stop as smoke and fumes entered the passenger compartment. 

The passengers were evacuated; however, there were no reports of injury. The repair and

replacement of damaged components will exceed the threshold. Is this a reportable train

accident?

A2. Yes. The regulation requires that any event involving the operation of on-track equipment

and resulting in damage above the reporting threshold is to be reported. However, a

component failure is not reportable when the physical damage is confined to the component

and there are no other consequences of a reportable nature. For example, a traction motor

problem is detected by the engineer. She is able to cut out that motor and proceeds to the

next terminal where the unit is removed from service and the traction motor replaced at a

cost exceeding the threshold.

Crankcase explosions, turbo charger failures, and incidents involving catenaries must meet

this same general criterion to be reportable. For example, a crankcase explosion

extensively damages the block, crankshaft, and oil pan. A subsequent fire causes

additional damage to other components in the engine compartment. The train is unable to

proceed, and crew members suffer from smoke inhalation. An event such as this, or a turbo

charger explosion with similar consequences, will generally be reportable. Incidents

involving catenaries are generally accountable, since they result in a disruption of service. 

Because of this, and the fact that the pantograph is frequently damaged, many of these are

also reportable. 

Q3. Sometimes damage to equipment is discovered during an inspection, but it cannot be

determined how the damage occurred, or it may simply be the result of routine wear and

tear. If the cost of repairing or replacing the component(s) exceeds the threshold, do we

need to make a report?

A3. No. The equipment in this example was not in operation when the damage was detected. 

In addition, it is unlikely that a factual report could be prepared that would adequately

describe how the damage occurred. Such a report, missing vital information, would be of

little use in accident analysis.

Q4. A shipment of cars was dropped off and secured at an industry siding. Employees of the

industry were attempting to move one of the cars when it got away from them, struck a

derail, rolled over on its side, and sustained substantial damage. The industry’s railroad
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 15 F 6180.54

operations are confined to its own installation, which is completely off general system. 

The car did not leave the industry's property or foul the track maintained by my railroad. 

Do we need to report this event?

A4. No. The event described was not caused by, nor did it involve, the operation of your

railroad. The industry does not have to report the event to FRA because the industry is

considered a plant railroad that operates entirely off the general system. Part 225 does not

apply to plant railroads that operate entirely off the general system. See § 225.3. 

Q5. A unit coal train was returning with 115 empties when it was delayed due to a heavy

downpour that stopped all rail operations. The crew was removed from the train because

of the extreme weather conditions. Heavy flooding from the rain washed out a portion of

the main line track that the train was occupying. The next morning 28 cars were on their

side. The preliminary estimate of equipment damage alone is over $100,000. Is this a

reportable train accident?

A5. Yes. The regulation requires that any event, including acts of God, involving the operation

of on-track equipment (standing or moving), and causing damage above the threshold for

train accidents must be reported.

E. COMMON REPORTING ERRORS

Duplication of Information.

A railroad whose involvement in an accident is limited to track maintenance responsibility, should

mark all items relating to the equipment consist "N/A". These items are 8, 9, 10, 11, 24, 25, 26,

27, 28, 29, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, and 47. This information will be reported

by the railroad responsible for the individual consist(s). A railroad that did not have track

involved in the accident must not list the damage to the track.

Do not send in reports concerning a consist for which another railroad has reporting responsibility. 

Missing or Incomplete Reports.

Do not leave blank items on the form. If the value is unknown, an estimate should be used. If the

item does not apply, "N/A" should be entered. If the correct response is "none", a "0" should be

inserted in the item.
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 7 - Page 16 F 6180.54

An accident report must be made by all railroads involved, regardless of the extent of damage

sustained by individual railroads.

When filing multiple reports for a single accident/incident be sure to verify that the information

contained on the various reports does not contradict itself. Of particular importance are such items

as:

 Item Contents

 5. Date of Accident/Incident

 6. Time of Accident/Incident

 7. Type of Accident/Incident

 15. State Abbr. [where the accident occurred]

 16. County [where the accident occurred]

 38. Primary Cause Code

If a Form FRA F 6180.55a or Form FRA F 6180.57 is also required for the accident, be sure to

compare similar items between these additional forms.

If there were reportable casualties resulting from the accident, a line entry must be made on Form

FRA F 6180.55a for each casualty. In highway-rail crossing accidents, the railroad responsible

for the equipment consist that struck or was struck by the highway user must file a Form FRA F

6180.57.

Avoid contradictions on a single form by comparing related items. For example, it would be

incorrect for a report to show more locomotives or cars derailed in a consist than were actually

contained in that consist, as shown in items 34 and 35. Similarly, if the report showed no

conductors in item 42, it would be inconsistent to show the conductor’s time on duty in item 45.
FORM FRA F 6180.54 - Continued

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Chapter 8 - Page 1 F 6180.81

CHAPTER 8 - FORM FRA F 6180.81

Employee Human Factor Attachment

A. REQUIREMENT

If, in reporting a rail equipment accident/incident on Form FRA F 6180.54, a railroad cites an

employee human factor as the primary cause or a contributing cause of the accident; then the

railroad that cited such employee human factor must complete the Form FRA F 6180.81, which is

entitled,"Employee Human Factor Attachment". The Employee Human Factor Attachment is to be

attached to the Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Report to which it pertains. For purposes of

completing this form, "employee" is defined as a Worker on Duty--Employee (Class A), Employee

not on Duty (Class B), Worker on Duty--Contractor (Class F), and Worker on Duty--Volunteer

(Class H). See §§ 225.5, 225.12.

This form is only used in connection with a reportable rail equipment accident/incident where the

Form FRA F 6180.54 submitted to the FRA identifies an employee human factor as either the

primary or contributing cause of the accident.

B. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS

Each employee identified on form 6180.81 must be notified according to the instructions found in

the section for preparing form 6180.78 and on the back of that form.

If a reporting railroad makes allegations concerning the employee of another railroad, the

employing railroad must promptly provide the name, job title, address, and medical status of any

employee reasonably identified by the alleging railroad, if requested.

If a railroad is initially unable to identify a particular railroad employee responsible for causing

the accident, but subsequently makes such identification, the railroad shall prepare a revised form

6180.81 and forward it to FRA. In addition, a notification (form 6180.78) must be sent to the

identified employee within 15 days of the date the revised Employee Human Factor Attachment

was prepared.

A railroad has reasonable discretion to defer notification of implicated employees on medical

grounds.

If an implicated employee has died as a result of the accident, a Notice addressed to that employee

must not be sent to any person. If an implicated employee has died of whatever causes by the time

that the Notice is ready to be sent, no Notice addressed to that employee is required. 

If the reporting railroad has scheduled, or is conducting, a formal investigation of a rail equipment

accident/incident to determine whether it was caused by an employee human factor and if the

investigation is not concluded prior to the filing of the regular monthly report, the railroad must
FORM FRA F 6180.81 - Continued

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Chapter 8 - Page 2 F 6180.81

nonetheless attach a form 6180.81 to the form 6180.54 to which it pertains. The following

instructions apply in these situations:

1. In the "Brief Description" area of Form FRA F 6180.81, you are to

explain that employee(s) have not been named because the railroad

is awaiting results of the formal investigation. Indicate whether the

formal investigation is currently in progress or the date that it is

scheduled to begin.

2. After transmittal of such Form FRA F 6180.81, and when the formal

investigation has been concluded for that rail equipment accident,

the reporting railroad must promptly provide a "corrected copy" of

FRA Form F 6180.81 for each implicated employee. Implicated

employees are to be notified in accordance with instructions found

in Section B of this Chapter.

The above provisions apply only when a formal investigation is scheduled or in progress and

where the naming of an employee(s) on FRA forms prior to a railroad's formal inquiry may give

the appearance of "pre-judging" the guilt or innocence of the affected employee(s). If a railroad

does not schedule a formal inquiry for a rail equipment accident/incident caused by an employee

human factor, the standard provisions described in this Chapter apply.
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Chapter 9 - Page 1 F 6180.78

CHAPTER 9 - FORM FRA F 6180.78

Notice to Railroad Employee Involved in Rail Equipment

Accident/Incident Attributed to Employee Human Factor

Employee Statement Supplementing Railroad Accident Report

A. REQUIREMENT

For each employee whose act, omission, or physical condition was alleged by the railroad as the

employee human factor that was the primary cause or a contributing cause of a reportable rail

equipment accident/incident (as reported on form 6180.54) and whose name was listed in the

Employee Human Factor Attachment (form 6180.81) for the accident and for each such railroad

employee of whose identity the railroad has actual knowledge, the alleging railroad shall:

1. Complete part I, "Notice to Railroad Employee Involved in Rail

Equipment Accident/Incident Attributed to Employee Human

Factor," of Form FRA F 6180.78 with information regarding the

accident, in accordance with the following instructions and those on

the form; and 

2. Hand deliver or send by first class mail (postage prepaid) the following to

that employee, within 45 days after the end of the month in which the rail

equipment accident/incident occurred:

a. A copy of Form FRA F 6180.78, "Notice to Railroad Employee

Involved in Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Attributed to

Employee Human Factor: Employee Statement Supplementing

Railroad Accident Report," with part I completed as to the

applicable employee and accident.

b. A copy of the railroad's Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Report

and Employee Human Factor Attachment on the rail equipment

accident/incident involved; and

c. If the accident was also reportable as a highway-rail grade crossing

accident/incident, a copy of the railroad's Highway-Rail Grade

Crossing Accident/Incident Report on that accident.

See § 225.12.

An “employee human factor” includes any of the accident causes signified by the train accident

cause codes listed under “Train Operation--Human Factors” in the current FRA Guide , except for

those train accident cause codes pertaining to non-railroad workers. For purposes of Form FRA F
FORM FRA F 6180.78 - Continued

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Chapter 9 - Page 2 F 6180.78

6180.78 and for purposes of the definition of “employee human factor”, “employee” includes the

following classifications: 

Worker on Duty--Employee, 

Employee not on Duty,

Worker on Duty--Contractor, and

Worker on Duty--Volunteer. 

See § 225.5 for definition of “employee human factor” and § 225.12 for definition of “employee”

and for substantive requirements.

This form is only used in connection with a reportable rail equipment accident/incident where the

Form FRA F 6180.54 submitted to the FRA identifies an employee human factor as either the

primary or contributing cause of the accident.

Employee Action upon Receipt of Notification.

Employee Statements Supplementing Railroad Accident Reports are voluntary, not mandatory. 

The nonsubmission of a Supplement does not imply that the employee admits or endorses the

railroad's conclusions as to cause or any other allegations. See § 225.12(g)(1).

Although a Supplement is completely optional and not required, if an employee wishes to submit a

Supplement and assure that, after receipt, it will be properly placed by FRA in a file with the

railroad's Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Report and that it will be required to be reviewed by

the railroad that issued the Notice, the Supplement must be made on part II of Form FRA F

6180.78 (entitled "Notice to Railroad Employee Involved in Rail Equipment Accident/Incident

Attributed to Employee Human Factor; Employee Statement Supplementing Railroad Accident

Report"), following the instructions printed on the form. These instructions require that, within 35

days of the date that the Notice was hand delivered or sent by first class mail to the employee

(except for good cause shown), the original of the Supplement be filed with FRA and a copy be

hand delivered or sent by first class mail to the railroad that issued the Notice. The railroad will

have to reassess its conclusions as to the cause of the accident and other circumstances and file

corrected reports with FRA concerning the accident when appropriate. See § 225.12(g)(2).

Information that the employee wishes to withhold from the railroad must not be included in this

Supplement. If an employee wishes to provide confidential information to FRA, the employee

should not use the Supplement form (part II of Form FRA F 6180.78), but rather provide such

confidential information by other means, such as a letter to the employee's collective bargaining

representative, or to the Federal Railroad Administration, Office of Safety Assurance and

Compliance, RRS-11, 400 Seventh Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20590. The letter should
FORM FRA F 6180.78 - Continued

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Chapter 9 - Page 3 F 6180.78

include the name of the railroad making the allegations, the date and place of the accident, and the

rail equipment accident/incident number. See § 225.12(g)(3). 

If an employee chooses to submit a Supplement to FRA, all of the employee's assertions in the

Supplement must be true and correct to the best of the employee's knowledge and belief. See 

§ 225.12(h).
FORM FRA F 6180.78 - Continued

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Chapter 10 - Page 1 F 6180.57

CHAPTER 10 - FORM FRA F 6180.57

Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Accident/Incident Report

A. REQUIREMENT

Any impact, regardless of severity, between a railroad on-track equipment consist and any user of

a public or private crossing site, is to be reported on Form FRA F 6180.57. The crossing site

includes sidewalks and pathways at, or associated with, the crossing.

In addition, whenever a highway-rail grade crossing accident/incident results in reportable

damages greater than the current reporting threshold used for Rail Equipment Accident/Incident

reporting, you must also submit a Form FRA F 6180.54. The reporting threshold for accidents that

occur during calendar year 1997 is $6,500.

B. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS

Highway users include but are not limited to: automobiles, buses, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles,

recreational vehicles, farm vehicles, construction vehicles, roadway maintenance vehicles, and

pedestrians.

Suicides or attempted suicides, as determined by a coroner or other public authority, at highwayrail crossing sites are not reportable. See § 225.15. However, the event may be reportable under

other criteria. See §§ 225.11 and 225.19. Reportable conditions to others must be recorded on

Form FRA F 6180.55a. See § 225.19(d). (E.g., the engineer sustained a fractured arm.) Likewise,

if the event caused reportable damage above the current monetary threshold for Rail Equipment

Accidents/Incidents, then a Form FRA F 6180.54 must be prepared. See § 225.19(c). In these

situations, the type of accident is to be coded as an "Obstruction" in block 7. 

Incidents involving highway users who have unsuccessfully attempted to avoid striking or being

struck by a railroad consist at a crossing site are to be reported, regardless of where the actual

impact between the consist and the highway user occurred.

The U.S. DOT-AAR grade crossing identification number recorded in block 4 of the form is a key

element of this report and must be provided. If you are unable to obtain this number from your

track or signal departments, or through your State coordinator, then assistance may be obtained by

contacting an FRA highway grade crossing manager at any of the regional offices found in

Appendix G or by calling 202-632-3305. The same procedures are to be followed when an

accident occurs at a crossing that is not a part of the U.S. DOT-AAR Crossing Inventory.

It is not necessary to complete additional reports for other highway users that become subsequently

involved in an accident when they are on the same crossing approach. Report the first highway

user involved in the accident. Briefly describe the accident and note any additional casualties or
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

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Chapter 10 - Page 2 F 6180.57

other vehicle damage in the narrative. A new incident must be reported for another vehicle

approaching from the opposite side that strikes or is struck by on-track equipment. 

A Form FRA F 6180.57 must be completed for collisions/impacts between on-track equipment and

users of designated crossing sites within industries or railroad yards.

Each reportable casualty resulting from a highway-rail crossing impact must also be reported on

Form FRA F 6180.55a. 

A railroad whose involvement in the accident/incident is limited to track maintenance

responsibility is not to complete Form FRA F 6180.57. When the reporting railroad is different

than the railroad maintaining the track, the railroad responsible for the track must be identified in

item 3a. Report number "XXX" is to be entered in item 3b in these instances.

Note: If the accident/incident satisfies the reporting requirements for rail equipment

accidents (e.g., reportable railroad damage exceeds threshold), Form FRA F

6180.54 must also be completed by all railroads involved, including the railroad

with track maintenance responsibility. See § 225.19(c).

Each accident/incident must have an identifying number that is unique for the report month. All

forms used by a carrier to report a single event must use the same accident/incident number. Do

not append additional characters on different forms for the same accident/incident. For example, if

a railroad has two casualties resulting from an accident, do not report one casualty using the

reporting number 12345, and the number 12345-A for the second. The reporting number must be

exactly the same for both reports.

If actual data are not available when the report is due, estimated values are to be used. If it is later

determined that an estimated value was significantly in error, a corrected report must be

forwarded. See § 225.13.

All items must be filled in; do not leave items blank. Enter "N/A" in those items that do not apply

to an accident. If "none" is the proper response for an item, for example, the number of cars in a

consist, enter "0"; do not enter "N/A".

C. INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING FORM FRA F 6180.57

Item Instruction
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

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Chapter 10 - Page 3 F 6180.57

 1. Name of Reporting Railroad

Enter the full name of the reporting railroad. 

1a. Alphabetic Code

Enter the reporting railroad's code, found in Appendix A. (Railroads whose involvement

in the accident/incident is limited to track maintenance responsibility are not to complete a

Form FRA F 6180.57.)

1b. Railroad Accident/Incident [Number]

Enter a unique identifying number for the accident/incident being reported. All reports

connected with this accident/incident must use the same reporting number. The report

number may contain up to 10 numeric or alphabetic characters.

 2. Name of Other Railroad Involved in Train Accident/Incident

If an equipment consist operated by another railroad was involved in the accident, enter the

full name of that railroad. If more than one other railroad had a consist involved, list only

one name.

2a. Alphabetic Code

Enter the code of the railroad identified in item 2.

2b. Railroad Accident/Incident No.

Enter the reporting number used by the railroad shown in item 2 to identify this

accident/incident.

 3. Name of Railroad Responsible for Track Maintenance

Enter the name of the railroad responsible for maintaining the track on which the

accident/incident occurred.

3a. Alphabetic Code

Enter the code of the railroad identified in item 3.

3b. Railroad Accident/Incident No.

Enter the reporting number used by the railroad shown in item 3 to identify this

accident/incident. If the railroad shown in item 3 differs from the reporting railroad, and if

the accident does not require that a Form FRA F 6180.54 be filed, then enter "XXX" as the

accident/incident number. However, if the accident also requires that Form FRA F

6180.54 be completed, enter the number used on the rail equipment form by the railroad

responsible for track maintenance.

4. U.S. DOT-AAR Grade Crossing Identification Number
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

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Chapter 10 - Page 4 F 6180.57

Enter the U.S. DOT-AAR National Highway-Rail Crossing Inventory Identification

Number assigned to the crossing involved. This number must be provided by the reporting

railroad, regardless of who actually maintains the track or the crossing site. If an

identification number has not been assigned to the crossing, enter "Not assigned".

 5. Date of Accident/Incident

Enter the date the accident/incident occurred.

 6. Time of Accident/Incident

Enter the time the accident/incident occurred and check the appropriate "AM" or "PM"

box. Do not use military time.

 7. Nearest Railroad Station

Enter the name of the nearest time table station. In event of accidents involving AMTRAK,

the host railroad's nearest station will apply.

 8. Division

Enter the full name of the division on which the accident occurred. If the railroad is not so

divided, enter the word "System". In the event of a joint accident involving AMTRAK, the

host railroad's division will apply.

 9. County

Enter the full name of the county or parish in which the accident/incident occurred.

10. State Abbr., Code

Enter the appropriate State code, found in Appendix B, for the State in which the accident

occurred.

11. City

If the accident occurred within the jurisdiction of a city, town or hamlet, enter the full name

of this location; otherwise, enter "N/A".

12. Highway Name or Number

Enter the name or number of the highway or street involved. If the impact occurred at a

public crossing, place an "X" or checkmark in the block titled "Public". If at a private

crossing, place an "X" or checkmark in the block titled "Private".

13. Type [of Highway User Involved]

Select the code that best identifies the type of highway user involved in the

accident/incident.
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Note: If a pedestrian is identified in this item, then items 14, 40, 41, 42, 44, 45,

and 47 are to be coded "N/A".

14. Vehicle Speed [of Highway User Involved]

List the estimated speed (mph) that the highway user was traveling at the time of impact. If

the highway user was not a vehicle, enter "N/A". If the vehicle was stopped on the

crossing at the time of impact, enter "0".

15. Direction [of Highway User Involved]

Select the code that best describes the geographical direction in which the highway user

was moving, and enter it in the box provided. If the highway user was stopped, identify the

intended direction of travel.

Note: It is possible in some circumstances for the geographical direction of the

highway user to be the same as the time table direction of the railroad

consist given in item 31.

16. Position [of the Highway User Involved]

Select the code that best describes the position of the highway user at the time of impact,

and enter in the code box.

Note: If the highway vehicle was stopped or stalled on the crossing at the time of

impact, the speed given in item 14 must be "0".

17. Equipment [Rail Equipment Involved]

Select the code that best identifies the railroad equipment consist involved in the

accident/incident and enter it in the box provided. (See definitions of types of rail

equipment given in Chapter 2.) Note that on-track work equipment such as ballast tampers

are classified as cars and therefore, should be identified by using code "4" or "5".

When completing this item, pay particular attention to its relationship to other items on the

form to avoid contradictions. Some examples of contradictory responses are as follows:

a. If the description of a railroad equipment includes a

reference to "pulling", "pushing", or "moving", then

train speed (“Consist Speed”) in item 30 cannot be

"0".

b. If the description states that the consist was

"standing", then speed in item 30 must be "0", and
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

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Chapter 10 - Page 6 F 6180.57

item 19 cannot indicate that the consist struck the

highway user.

c. If a train is identified, there must be a count of the

number of locomotives given in item 28. If the

equipment consist was a single car or cut of cars,

then item 28 must be "0", and the count of cars must

be entered in item 29.

18. Position of Car Unit in Train [Rail Equipment Involved]

Identify the position within the consist of the first locomotive unit or car that struck or was

struck by the highway user. The position is determined by counting from (and including)

the leading locomotive unit or car to the position of the first car or locomotive involved in

the accident. The leading unit is the first car or locomotive to enter the crossing,

regardless of the location of the locomotive(s). For example, in a pushing movement

involving a cut of cars and a single locomotive, the count would begin from the car that

first entered the crossing.

Special Instruction:

When the consist contains articulated car(s), the count for these is to

be the number of platforms/units in such a car. This is necessary in

order to maintain comparability of train lengths. The narrative is to

contain a reference that articulated cars were included in the

consist.

Note: If a single railroad car or locomotive was involved, or if the railroad

consist struck the highway user (as shown in item 19), then the entry in this

item must be "1".

19. Circumstance [Rail Equipment Involved]

Specify whether the railroad consist struck the highway user or was struck by the highway

user. If the railroad equipment struck the highway user, be sure that item 17 does not refer

to "standing" equipment, and that the speed of the on-track equipment is given in item 30. If

the highway user struck the railroad consist, be sure that the estimated speed of the highway

vehicle given in item 14 is greater than "0" and that the position of the highway user was

coded "3" in item 16.

20a. Was the highway user and/or rail equipment involved in the impact transporting hazardous

materials?
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

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Chapter 10 - Page 7 F 6180.57

Enter the code that identifies whether or not the rail equipment and/or the highway user

was transporting hazardous material as cargo at the time of the impact. For the rail

equipment, this includes any car containing hazardous material cargo within the consist,

regardless of location, but not generally the locomotive because diesel fuel used by the

locomotive and fusees carried by the locomotive are not considered to be cargo. Highway

users are to be identified only when the hazardous material is being transported as cargo;

the gasoline or diesel fuel used by the vehicle's engine is not considered to be cargo.

20b. Was there a hazardous materials (HAZMAT) release by

Enter the code into the box that shows if there was a HAZMAT release by the highway user

and/or rail equipment. If there was no HAZMAT release by either of these, enter the code

for "neither". A release of gasoline or diesel fuel used by the vehicle's engine is not

considered a HAZMAT release for the purposes of this item. (Please describe such

occurrences in the narrative.) 

20c. State here the name and quantity of the hazardous material released, if any

Enter the name of the hazardous material released, followed by the quantity released. State

the measure, for example, 50 gal[lons], 20 tons.) Describe the hazardous material released

in the narrative by name or the Standard Transportation Commodity Code (STCC). (Note: 

Any release of hazardous material must also be reported on DOT form F 5800.1--see 49

CFR 171.15 and 171.16 for requirements.) 

21. Temperature

Enter the temperature (Fahrenheit) at the accident site at the time of the accident. If the

temperature was below zero, preface the temperature number with a minus (-) sign.

22. Visibility

Select the most appropriate entry, and place it in the code box. Make sure that the entry

does not contradict the time given in item 6; for example, if the time of the accident was

1:30 p.m., it would be inappropriate to code the visibility as "Dawn".

23. Weather

Select the most appropriate weather condition at the time and location of the accident, and

enter the code in the box provided.

24. Type of Equipment Consist

Select the code that best identifies the consist for which this report is being prepared, and

enter it in the box provided. Make sure that this entry is consistent with the values given in

items 17, 28, and 29. 
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 10 - Page 8 F 6180.57

25. Track Type Used by Rail Equipment Involved

Select the code that identifies the type of track on which the accident occurred, and enter it

in the box provided. Branch lines should be reported as main line, code "1".

26. Track Number or Name

Enter the number or name used to identify the track on which the accident occurred. If it is

main track of a single-track line, enter "single main track".

27. FRA Track Class

Enter the class of track on which the reported consist was located at the time of the

accident. Classes of track are defined in the Federal Track Safety Standards (49 CFR Part

213). See 49 CFR 213.4 and 213.9. Excepted track should be entered as Class X.

 Maximum Speed 

 Track Freight Passenger

 Class Trains Trains 

 X 10 Prohibited

 1 10 15

 2 25 30

 3 40 60

 4 60 80

 5 80 90

 6 110 110

28. Number of Locomotive Units

Enter the total number of locomotive units in the consist involved in the accident; if none,

enter "0".

29. Number of Cars

Enter the total number of cars in the equipment consist involved in the accident; if none,

enter "0". Be sure to include any caboose(s) in the consist in this count.

See special instruction for item 18 on counting articulated cars.

30. Consist Speed

List the speed (mph) at which the consist was traveling when the impact occurred. Enter

"E" in the code box to indicate if this is estimated; or enter "R" for a recorded speed. If the

consist was not moving, enter "0".

31. Time Table Direction
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 10 - Page 9 F 6180.57

If the consist was either moving or temporarily stopped, enter the code that describes the

time table or schedule direction in the box provided. If this equipment consist was a car or

a cut of cars standing on the track, enter "N/A".

32. Type of Crossing Warning

Identify the warning devices by entering the appropriate code(s) in the box(es). For codes

"2" and "3", "FLS" means "flashing light signal". Enter a code of "5" ("Highway Traffic

Signals") whenever such a signal is present at the crossing site and is used for controlling

highway traffic over the crossing. 

33. Signaled Crossing Warning

Only if Codes 1-6 in item 32 (Type of Crossing Warning) are selected, enter in this item

the status of the warning devices at the crossing at the time of impact, using the following:

1. Provided minimum 20-second warning. 

2. Alleged warning time greater than 60 seconds.

3. Alleged warning time less than 20 seconds.

4. Alleged no warning.

5. Confirmed warning time greater than 60 seconds.

6. Confirmed warning time less than 20 seconds.

7. Confirmed no warning.

If status code 5, 6 or 7 was entered, you must append a code from the following:

A. Insulated rail vehicle.

B. Storm/lightning damage.

C. Vandalism.

D. No power/batteries dead.

E. Devices down for repair.

F. Devices out of service.

G. Warning time greater than 60 seconds attributed to accidentinvolved train stopping short of the crossing, but within track circuit

limits, while warning devices remain continuously active with no

other in-motion train present.
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 10 - Page 10 F 6180.57

H. Warning time greater than 60 seconds attributed to track circuit

failure (e.g., insulated rail joint or rail bonding failure, track or

ballast fouled).

J. Warning time greater than 60 seconds attributed to other

train/equipment within track circuit limits.

K. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to signals timing out

before train's arrival at the crossing/island circuit.

L. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to train operating

counter to track circuit design direction.

M. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to train speed in

excess of track circuit's design speed.

N. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to signal system's

failure to detect train approach.

P. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to violation of special

train operating instructions.

R. No warning attributed to signal system's failure to detect the train.

S. Other cause(s). Explain in Narrative Description.

Note: If the crossing site was not protected by train-activated warning devices,

enter "N/A".

34. Whistle Ban

Enter the code which indicates whether or not there was a whistle ban in effect and

observed at the time of the accident/incident.

35. Location of Warning

Select the code that identifies the location of the crossing warnings shown in item 32, and

enter it in the code box. If there was no protection at the crossing, enter "N/A"; and enter a

code of "12" in item 32 for “None” (i.e., no warning).

36. Crossing Warning Interconnected with Highway Signals

If highway traffic signals within 500 feet of the crossing site are interconnected with the

train detection circuitry, such that they restrict highway users from the crossing whenever a

rail consist occupies or is about to occupy the crossing, enter "1". If the highway traffic

signals on the approach to the crossing are within 500 feet of the crossing but are not

interconnected with the train detection circuitry, enter "2". Enter "3" in the code box when

it is not known whether the highway traffic signals are interconnected. If highway signals

are not present within 500 feet of the crossing, enter "N/A".
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 10 - Page 11 F 6180.57

 Note: Item 32 identifies warning devices actually present at, or in the near

vicinity of, the crossing. Therefore, it is possible to show highway

traffic signals interconnected with train detection circuitry in this

item, but not to enter a code of "5" in item 32.

37. Crossing Illuminated by Street Lights or Special Lights

If street lights or other special lights used to illuminate the crossing site were on at the time

of the accident/incident, enter "1". If there were no such lights or if they were not

illuminated at the time of the accident, enter "2".

38. Driver's Age

Enter the age of the driver. This block is optional; however, the railroad is encouraged to

be as diligent as possible when completing this block. If the highway user was a

pedestrian, please provide age, if known.

39. Driver's Gender

Enter "1" if the driver was a male, or "2" if the driver was a female. 

This block is optional; however, the railroad is encouraged to be as diligent as possible

when completing this block. If the highway user was a pedestrian, please identify gender.

40. Driver Drove Behind or in Front of Train and Struck or was Struck by Second Train

Enter the appropriate entry in the code box.

Note: If a pedestrian is identified in item 13, then enter “N/A”.

41. Driver

Enter the appropriate entry in the code box. If code "3" ("Did not stop") is used, the

vehicle must be shown as moving over the crossing in item 16, and traveling at a speed

greater than "0" in item 14.

Note: If a pedestrian is identified in item 13, then enter “N/A”.

42. Driver Passed Standing Highway Vehicle

Identify whether the highway user, immediately before the accident, had passed another

vehicle that had stopped short of the crossing.

Note: If a pedestrian is identified in item 13, then enter “N/A”.

43. View of Track Obscured by

If the highway user's view approaching the crossing was obstructed to the extent that he or

she may have been unaware that a rail consist was about to occupy or was occupying the
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 10 - Page 12 F 6180.57

crossing, enter the code that identifies the primary obstruction. If the highway user had a

clear view of an approaching consist which had not yet occupied the crossing, enter code

"8".

44. Driver was [Condition After Accident/Incident]

Select the code that describes the extent of harm to the driver. If the driver was fatally

injured or injured to the extent of requiring medical treatment, a line entry on Form FRA F

6180.55a must also be completed for this accident/incident. See § 225.19(d).

45. Was Driver in the Vehicle?

If the driver of the highway vehicle was in the vehicle at the time of impact, enter "1" in the

code box. If the driver had left the vehicle prior to the impact, enter "2".

46. [Casualties to] Highway-Rail Crossing Users

Enter the total number of reportable deaths and injuries. All deaths and injuries must also

be reported individually on Form FRA F 6180.55a.

47. Highway Vehicle Property Damage

Enter the estimated cost of damages sustained by the highway vehicle involved. The

amount given should reflect the cost of repairs. If the vehicle is beyond repair, the cost is

the replacement value of the vehicle. If there was no damage to the vehicle, enter "0". Do

not make entries such as "totalled".

48. Total Number of Highway-Rail Crossing Users

Enter the total number of highway-rail crossing users involved in the incident (including

the driver, if applicable). The term “Highway-Rail Crossing Users” includes those

individuals directly involved in the impact and others at the crossing location who were

killed or injured as result of the accident/incident.

49. [Casualties to] Railroad Employees

See instructions for block 46. For purposes of this form, “Railroad Employees” includes

only those persons classified as Worker on Duty--Employee (Class A). 

50. Total Number of People on the Train

Enter the total number of people on the train at the time of the incident (including

passengers and train crew).

51. Is a Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Report Being Filed?
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 10 - Page 13 F 6180.57

If the accident resulted in reportable railroad damage above the threshold established for

reporting rail equipment accidents/incidents, enter "1" in code box, and complete Form

FRA F 6180.54.

52. [Casualties to] Passengers on Train

See instructions for block 46. Passengers on trains are those identified as Class C. 

53a.-b. Special Study Block

The "Special Study Blocks" (SSB) in this item are for collection of essential data as the

need arises. The FRA will notify the railroads in writing, or if appropriate, through

publication in the Federal Register, of the purpose and the type of information that is to be

collected. In conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), FRA will

publish in the Federal Register any announcement affecting highway users, thus allowing

motor carriers the opportunity to provide FRA pertinent special study information. 

54. Narrative Description

An accident is frequently the culmination of a sequence of related events, and a variety of

conditions or circumstances may contribute to its occurrence. A complete record of all of

these would be beneficial in accident prevention analysis. However, it is not practical,

even if were possible, to develop forms and codes that would capture every detail that may

be associated with the causes and resulting consequences of each accident. Therefore, the

most appropriate combination of available codes that best identifies the likely primary and

any contributing cause and other factors, is to be used when completing your report.

The limitations imposed by standardized reporting forms make it critical that the narrative

portion of the report provide additional information concerning those items that cannot be

adequately described on the coded portions of the form. The wide variation in the causes

and circumstances of accidents makes it impractical to prepare a comprehensive list of

items to include in your discussion. You should include any information that increases our

knowledge of the underlying reasons why the accident occurred and its consequences.

55. Typed Name and Title

Type or print the name and title of the person responsible for preparing this report form.

56. Signature

Signature of the person shown in item 55.

57. Date

Date the signature was made in item 56.

D. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 10 - Page 14 F 6180.57

Q1. A man driving a truck did not see a train occupying a highway-rail crossing and lost

control of his vehicle when he slammed on the brakes to avoid a collision. His truck ended

up in the ditch with considerable damage, and he broke his arm. What reports do we need

to prepare?

A1. Since an impact did not occur between a highway and a rail user, you do not need to

prepare a highway-rail accident/incident report (form 6180.57). However, the motorist

did sustain a reportable injury arising from the operation of a railroad. Therefore, an

injury report (form 6180.55a) must be completed. If the motorist had struck the consist in

this example, a form 6180.57 would be required even though the impact did not occur on

the crossing site.

Q2. Say that a highway user struck a signal stand at a highway crossing and was injured, but

there was no on-track equipment present, nor were employees of the railroad in the

vicinity. Is this reportable?

A2. No. Section 225.15(a) exempts the reporting of motor vehicle accidents at highway-rail

crossing sites when they do not involve the presence of on-track equipment or railroad

employees.

Q3. A motorist in an off-road vehicle was waiting behind several automobiles at a crossing site

where the gates were down and a standing train was occupying the track. He apparently

became impatient and drove his vehicle off the highway and parallel to the track to a point

where he could cross over the track behind the train. His vehicle stalled on a parallel set

of tracks, and he was unable to start it. He exited his truck just before a train on the

adjacent track hit it. Should this be reported as a highway-rail accident/incident or any

other type?

A3. An event such as this would not qualify as a highway-rail crossing collision since the

motor vehicle operator had left the highway of his own choosing and his vehicle was struck

at a location other than a designated crossing site. The event would be reportable as an

obstruction accident on form 6180.54 if reportable damage was in excess of the threshold. 

If the motorist had been hurt in connection with this event, then an injury report (form

6180.55a) would need to be completed.

E. COMMON REPORTING ERRORS

Contradictory Information.

The following is a partial listing of some of common errors resulting from contradictory

information.
FORM FRA F 6180.57 - Continued

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Chapter 10 - Page 15 F 6180.57

If a highway vehicle was moving at the time of the impact, vehicle speed in item 14 cannot be "0",

and the vehicle's position on the crossing shown in item 16 must be "3" (“Moving over crossing”).

If the highway vehicle was not moving, the vehicle speed must be "0"; the position code in item 16

cannot be "3" (“Moving over crossing”), and item 19 must be "1", indicating that the rail consist

struck the highway user.

If the rail consist was moving at the time of the impact, item 17 must be either "1", "2", "4", "6", or

"8", and the speed in item 30 cannot be "0". If the rail consist was not moving, then item 17 must

contain "3", "5", "7", or "8"; the consist speed in item 30 must be "0"; and item 19 must be coded

"2", indicating that the highway user struck the rail consist.

If the rail consist struck the highway user, code "1" must be entered in item 19, and the position of

the car/unit in the consist given in item 18 must be "1". This position is determined by counting

from the leading car/unit in the consist, identified as the first car/unit to enter the crossing. 

Therefore, whenever a rail consist strikes the highway user, it will always be the leading unit that

makes the initial contact.

Item 41 cannot indicate that a motorist was driving around or through gates if gates were not

present at the crossing, as shown in item 32.

Failure to File Other Accident/Incident Forms or Filing Contradictory Data On Different Reports.

When Part 225 requires that a single accident be reported on more than one kind of form, be sure

to verify that similar information contained on the various reports is consistent. The following are

a few of the items which should be reviewed prior to forwarding the monthly reports.

If reportable casualties occurred in the accident, these must be reported individually on Form FRA

F 6180.55a.

If reportable damage (rail equipment and track) exceeded the threshold for train accidents, Form

FRA F 6180.54 must be completed. Carefully compare all related information between these

forms to ensure consistency.

The casualties reported on Form FRA F 6180.55a must have the same State code as that shown on

Form FRA F 6180.57.
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 11 - Page 1 F 6180.56

CHAPTER 11 - FORM FRA F 6180.56

Annual Railroad Report of Employee Hours and Casualties, by State

A. REQUIREMENT

A summary of all hours worked by railroad employees, and employee casualties, during the report

year must be made on Form FRA F 6180.56 and be included with the December submission.

B. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS

To alleviate the recordkeeping problems caused when certain employees, such as train crews,

work in more than one State, the hours worked may be computed based on the location of such

persons' home terminals or the locations where they normally reside. This includes instances

when railroad employees operate trains into Canada or Mexico.

The sum of the hours worked shown on this form must equal the total number of hours reported on

the monthly reports (form 6180.55). If not, then updates to the monthly reports must be made. The

hours worked by all employees of the railroad, regardless of occupation, are to be included. Nonwork time, such as sick leave, is to be omitted even though it is paid. Do not include hours of

volunteers, the employees of railroad contractors, or other classifications of persons.

The total casualties reported for the year on this form must not differ from the total casualties for

the year as reported on form 6180.55a for Worker on Duty--Employees (Class A). Do not include

casualties of volunteers, the employees of railroad contractors, or other classifications of

persons.

C. INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING FORM FRA F 6180.56

Item Instruction

 1. Reporting Railroad

Enter the full name of the reporting railroad in the box provided. 

 2. Alphabetic Code

Enter the alphabetic code of the reporting railroad in the box provided. See Appendix A.

 3. Report Year

Enter the calendar year covered by this report.

 4. Establishments Included in this Report

List the number of establishments operated during the year.

 5. Average Employment in Report Year
FORM FRA F 6180.56 - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Chapter 11 - Page 2 F 6180.56

Enter the average number of workers employed during the report year. Count all railroad

employees. Include railroad employees who are seasonal, temporary, part-time, office and

clerical staff, maintenance, etc. This number may be calculated by adding the employment

count from all payroll periods during the year and then dividing that figure by the number of

payroll periods.

6. [Untitled]

Enter the number of hours worked for the report year in each State by employees of the

reporting railroad. Also enter the total count of casualties for Worker on Duty--Employees

(Class A) (both fatal and nonfatal) for the reporting railroad, for the year, by State. 

Do not include time paid, but not actually worked, such as holidays and vacations. 

 7. Total Employee Hours for the Year

Enter the total number of combined hours worked for the report year, for all of the States,

by employees of the reporting railroad. Include hours of any employee whose job required

temporary absence from the United States. 

 8. Total Casualties During the Year

Enter the total number of casualties to persons classified as Worker on Duty--Employee

(Class A). Please attach a brief explanation for those States where employee casualties

occurred but no hours are reported. 

 9. Typed Name and Title

Enter the name and title of the person responsible for preparing this report.

10. Signature

Signature of the person shown in item 9.

11. Date of Signature

Date that the signature in item 10 was made. 
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -1 Railroad Codes

APPENDIX A

Railroad Codes

ARE A & R Line Inc.

AGRD A&G Railroad, L.L.C. (formerly Abbeville-Grimes - AG)

Abbeville-Grimes Rwy Co (Use Code AGRD - A&G RR, L.L.C.)

ACWR Aberdeen, Carolina & Western Railroad

AR Aberdeen & Rockfish Railroad Company

AKDN Acadiana Railway Company

ADCX Adirondack Scenic Railroad (Previously Adir. Centennial)

ADBF Adrian & Blissfield Railroad

AB Akron Barberton Cluster Railway Company

ABB Akron & Barberton Belt Railroad Company

ALAB Alabama Railroad Company, Incorporated

AF Alabama & Florida Railway Company

AGS Alabama Great Southern Railroad, The (NS)

ABL Alameda Belt Line

AGCR Alamo Gulf Coast Railroad Company

ARR Alaska Railroad Corporation

APRR Albany Port Railroad

ARC Alexander Railroad Company

AWW Algers, Winslow & Western Railway Company

ALQS Aliquippa & Southern Railroad Company

AVR Allegheny Valley Railroad Company

ALC Allegheny Central Railroad

ALY Allegheny And Eastern Railroad

AL Almanor Railroad Company

ALS Alton & Southern Railroad

AMC Amador Central Railroad Company

AMHR Amhearst Railroad Industries, Incorporated/Landisville RR

ATK Amtrak (National Railroad Passenger Corporation)

ACRC Andalusia & Conecuh Railroad Company, Incorporated

ANR Angelina & Neches River Railroad Company

AA Ann Arbor Railroad

APA Apache Railway Company

AN Apalachicola Northern Railroad Company

APNC Appanoose County Community Railroad Company

ARA Arcade & Attica Railroad Corporation

AZCR Arizona Central Railroad, Incorporated

ARZC Arizona & California Railroad Company

AZER Arizona Eastern Railroad

AKMD Arkansas Midland Railroad Company, Incorporated

ALM Arkansas Louisiana & Mississippi Railroad Company

AM Arkansas & Missouri Railroad Company

AOK Arkansas-Oklahoma Railroad Inc.

ACRY Arkansas Central Railway Company

AVL Aroostook Valley Railroad Company

ASRY Ashland Railway Incorporated

ADN Ashley, Drew & Northern Railway Company

ACJR Ashtubula, Carson & Jefferson Railroad
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -2 Railroad Codes

ATSF Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway Company, The

ASML Atlanta, Stone Mountain & Lithonia

ATW Atlantic & Western Railway, L.P.

AGLF Atlantic & Gulf Railroad

ATCX Austin & Texas Central Railroad

AUNW Austin & Northwestern Railroad

ATLT Austin, Todd & Ladd Railroad Company

ATC Autotrain Corporation

BLA Baltimore & Annapolis Railroad Company

BOCT Baltimore & Ohio Chicago Terminal Railroad Company

BAR Bangor & Aroostook Railroad

BKRR Batten Kill Railroad

BXN Bauxite & Northern Railway Company

BCLR Bay Colony Railroad

BAYL Bay Line Railroad, L.L.C.

BMH Beaufort & Morehead Railway Incorporated

BEEM Beech Mountain Railroad Company

BML Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad Company

BHRX Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society

BRC Belt Railway Company Of Chicago, The

BMS Berlin Mills Railway

BLE Bessemer & Lake Erie Railroad Company

BSDA Bi-State Development Agency, St. Louis (Operated By RSM)

BSFX Big South Fork Scenic Railway

BS Birmingham Southern Railroad Company

BHC Black Hills Central Railroad

BRW Black River & Western Railroad

BLOL Bloomer Shippers Connecting Railroad Company

BMRG Blue Mountain & Reading Railroad

BRTR Blue Rock Transportation Company

BRRX Blue Rapids Railway

BLMR Blue Mountain Railroad, Incorporated

BRMI Bluegrass Railroad Museum, Incorporated

BSV Boone Scenic Valley

BOP Border Pacific Railroad

BM Boston & Maine Corporation

BRAN Brandon Corporation

BSRX Brandywine Scenic Railroad Company

BVRY Brandywine Valley Railroad Company

BITY Bristol Industrial Terminal Railway

BWDX Broadway Dinner Train

BRG Brownsville & Rio Grande International Railroad

BCRR Buckeye Central Scenic Railroad

BB Buckingham Branch Railroad Company

BSOR Buffalo Southern Railroad, Incorporated

BPRR Buffalo & Pittsburgh Railroad, Incorporated
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -3 Railroad Codes

BJRY Burlington Junction Railway

BN Burlington Northern Railroad Company

CSKR C&S Railroad Corporation

CALX Caddo, Antonine And Little Missouri

CTML Cairo Terminal Railroad Company

CWCY Caldwell County Railroad Co.

CWR California Western Railroad

CFNR California Northern Railroad Company

CSRM California State Railroad Museum

CSP Camas Prairie Railroad Company

CCRA Camp Chase Industrial Railroad Corp

CN Canadian National - North America

Canadian Atlantic Railroad (Use Code CDAC)

CDAC Canadian American Railroad Company

CPVM Canadian Pacific Railway (Vermont & Michigan)

CP Canadian Pacific Railway Company

CFWR Caney Fork & Western Railroad

CTN Canton Railroad Company

CCRX Cape Cod Railroad

CF Cape Fear Railways, Incorporated

CMSX Cape May Seashore Lines, Inc.

CHSX Carbon Schuykill

CALA Carolina Southern Railroad Company

CLNA Carolina Coastal Railway, Incorporated

CRIJ Carolina Rail Services Company

CPDR Carolina Piedmont Division-South Carolina Central Railroad

CARR Carrollton Railroad (CSX)

CKSI Carthage, Knightstown & Shirley Railroad

CASS Cass Scenic

CMRR Catskill Mountain Railroad

CBRX CBEC Railway, Inc.

CVAR Cedar Valley Railroad

CEDR Cedar River Railroad Company

CIC Cedar Rapids & Iowa City Railway Company

CRLX Centex Rail Link, Limited

CERA Central Railroad Company Of Indianapolis

CEIW Central Indiana & Western Railroad Company

CGA Central Of Georgia Railroad Company (NS)

CCT Central Calfornia Traction Company

CTRN Central Of Tennessee Railway & Navigation Company

CORP Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad, Inc.

CV Central Vermont Railway (Out Of Operation)

CM Central Montana Railroad

CNYK Central New York Railroad Corporation

CIND Central Railroad Company Of Indiana

CKRY Central Kansas Railway, Incorporated
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -4 Railroad Codes

CMGN Central Michigan Railway Company

CGNE Champagne Railroad, Incorporated

CIRR Chattahoochee Industrial Railroad

CCKY Chattooga & Chickamauga Railroad

CHNY Cheney Railroad Company, Incorporated

CHRR Chesapeake Railroad Company

CHW Chesapeake Western Railway

CA Chesapeake & Albemarle Railroad Company

CHR Chestnut Ridge Railway Company

CWP Chicago, West Pullman & Southern Railroad Company

CRI Chicago River And Indiana Railroad Company

CHTT Chicago Heights Terminal Transfer Railroad Company

CIW Chicago & Illinois Western Railroad

CCUO Chicago-Chemung Railroad Corporation

CSS Chicago Southshore & South Bend Railroad

CRL Chicago Rail Link

CNW Chicago And North Western Railway Company

CIM Chicago & Illinois Midland Railway Company

CC Chicago, Central & Pacific Railroad Company

CSL Chicago Short Line Railway Company

CBRM Chillicothe-Brunswick Rail Maintenance Authority

CVR Cimarron Valley Railroad L C

CNTP Cincinnati, New Orleans & Texas Pacific Railway Co., The (NS)

CTER Cincinnati Terminal Railway Company

COP City Of Prineville Railway

CCRR Claremont Concord Railroad Corporation

CLP Clarendon & Pittsford Railroad Company

CTR Clinton Terminal Railroad Company

CRLE Coe Rail Incorporated

CISD Colonel's Island Railroad Company

CW Colorado & Wyoming Railway Company

CS Colorado And Southern Railway

CT Columbia Terminal Railroad Company

CBCX Columbia Business Center

CLC Columbia & Cowlitz Railway Company

CNOW Columbia & Northern Railway Company

CUOH Columbus & Ohio River Railroad

CAGY Columbus & Greenville Railway Company

CWRY Commonwealth Railway, Incorporated

CBL Conemaugh & Black Lick Railroad Company

CDT Conn. Dept. Of Transportation

CCCL Connecticut Central Railroad

CTV Connecticut Valley

CGBX Consolidated Grain & Barge Company

CR Consolidated Rail Corporation

CONW Conway Scenic Railroad

CACV Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railway Corporation

CMRX Coopersville & Marne Railroad
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -5 Railroad Codes

CBRY Copper Basin Railway, Incorporated

CRCX Cornhusker Rail Car Services, Inc.

CCTA Corpus Christi Terminal Association

CSRX Corydon 1883 Scenic Railroad

CBGR Council Bluffs Railway Company

CPRS CP Rail System/CP Tarrif, Inc.

COER Crab Orchard & Egyptian Railroad

CYCY Crystal City Railroad, Incorporated

CSX CSX Transportation, Inc.

CTSR Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

CVSX Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway

CUVA Cuyahoga Valley Railway Company

DAIR D & I Railroad Company

DME Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern Railroad

DAKR Dakota Railroad

DI Dakota & Iowa Railroad

DMVW Dakota, Missouri Valley & Western Railroad, Incorporated

DSRC Dakota Southern Railway Company

DGNO Dallas, Garland & Northeastern Railroad

DTRR Danbury Terminal Railroad Company

DMM Dansville & Mount Morris Railroad Company

DR Dardanelle & Russellville Railroad

DRI Davenport, Rock Island & North Western Railway Company

DQE De Queen & Eastern Railroad Company

DCRX Deadwood Central Railroad Company

DT Decatur Junction Railway Company

DH Delaware & Hudson Railway Company

DL Delaware Lackawanna Railroad (replaces LVAL,lRWY)

DURR Delaware & Ulster Rail Ride

DV Delaware Valley Railroad Company, Inc.

DC Delray Connecting Railroad Company

DVS Delta Valley & Southern Railway Company

DSRR Delta Southern Railroad Company

DRGW Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad Company, The

DRIR Denver Rock Island Railroad

DUT Denver Union Terminal Railway

DOE Department Of Energy

DOD Department Of Defense - Other

DLWR Depew, Lancaster & Western Railroad Company, Incorporated

DKS Doniphan, Kensett & Searcy Railway

DCRR Dubois County Railroad

DMIR Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range Railway Company

DNE Duluth & Northeastern Railroad Company

DWP Duluth, Winnipeg & Pacific Railway

DSNG Durango & Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad Company

DS Durham And Southern Railway Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -6 Railroad Codes

DRHY Durham Transport Incorporated

EPRY East Penn Railways, Inc.

EACH East Camden & Highland Railroad Company

EJR East Jersey Railroad & Terminal Company

ECBR East Cooper & Berkeley Railroad

ETRY East Tennessee Railway, L.P.

EEC East Erie Commercial Railroad

EPTC East Portland Traction Company

EIRC Eastern Illinois Railroad Company

EIRR Eastern Idaho Railroad

ESHR Eastern Shore Railroad Incorporated

EARY Eastern Alabama Railway Company

EMRX Eastern Maine Railroad

EMRY Eastern Maine Railroad Company

TXTX Econo Rail Corporation

EDW El Dorado & Wesson Railway Company

EJE Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway Company

ELKR Elk River Railroad, Incorporated

EE Ellis & Eastern Company 

ETMX Entertrainment Line

ELS Escanaba & Lake Superior Railroad Company

EKNA Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railroad

EV Everett Railroad Company

FMRC Farmrail Corporation

FRA Federal Railroad Administration

FMWX Fillmore And Western

FGLK Finger Lakes Railway Corporation

FIR Flats Industrial Railroad Company

FGC Florida Gulf Coast Railrod Museum, Incorporated

FWCR Florida West Coast Railway

FMID Florida Midland Railroad Company, Incorporated

FCEN Florida Central Railroad Company

FEC Florida East Coast Railway Company

FNOR Florida Northern Railroad Company, Incorporated

FAPR Floydada & Plainview Railroad Company

FP Fordyce & Princeton Railroad Company

FSR Fort Smith Railroad Company

FWWR Fort Worth & Western Railroad

FVW Fox Valley & Western Ltd.

FEVR Freemont & Elkhorn Valley Railroad

FWHS Ft. Wayne Historical Society

GVSR Galveston Railroad, L.P.

GCW Garden City Western Railway Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -7 Railroad Codes

GWWR Gateway Western Railway

GWWE Gateway Eastern Railroad Company

GNWR Genesee & Wyoming Railroad Company

GRR Georgetown Railroad Company

GC Georgia Central Railroad

GAAB Georgia & Alabama Division

GFRR Georgia & Florida Railroad Co., Inc.

GNRR Georgia Northeastern Railroad Company

GGS Georgia Great Southern Division-South Carolina

GSWR Georgia Southwestern Railroad Division

GMA Georgia Marble

GSF Georgia Southern & Florida Company (NS)

GWRC Georgia Woodlands Railroad

GPSX Gettysburg Passenger Service

GETY Gettysburg Railroad Company

GRC Glasgow Railway Company

GLSR Gloster Southern Railroad

GCR Gold Coast Railroad

GGMX Golden Gate Railroad Museum

GTRA Golden Triangle Railroad Company

GCRC Golden Cat Railroad Corporation

GU Grafton & Upton Railroad Company

GNBC Grainbelt Corporation

GR Grand Rapids Eastern Railroad Incorporated

GTW Grand Trunk Western Railroad Incorporated

GCRX Grand Canyon Railway

GSM Great Smokey Mountain Railroad

GRWR Great Walton Railroad Company

GWR Great Western Railway Company

GTR Great River Railroad

GMRY Great Miami & Scioto Railway Company

GRMX Great Miami & Western Railway

GMRC Green Mountain Railroad Corporation

GRN Greenville & Northern Railway Company

GRS Guilford Rail System (formerly code GUIL)

GORX Gulf And Ohio Railways

GCSR Gulf, Colorado San Saba Railway Corporation

GSSZ Gulf State Steel, Inc.

GWSW Gwi Switching Services L.P. (Formerly Genessee & Wyoming Switching Svcs)

HS H & S Railroad Company, Incorporated

HB Hampton & Branchville Railroad Company

HBL Harbor Belt Line Railroad

HSRR Hardin Southern Railroad, Incorporated

HRT Hartwell Railroad Company

HVRX Heber Valley Railroad Utah

HPTD High Point, Thomasville & Denton Railroad Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -8 Railroad Codes

HVSR Hocking Valley Scenic Railroad

HRS Hollidaysburg And Roaring Spring Railroad Company

HE Hollis & Eastern Railroad Company

HCRR Honey Creek Railroad, Incorporated

HOS Hoosier Southern Railroad

HRRC Housatonic Railroad Company, Incorporated

HBT Houston Belt & Terminal Railway Company

HRR Huckleberry Railroad

HMCR Huntsville & Madison County Railroad Authority

HESR Huron & Eastern Railway

HN Hutchinson & Northern Railway Company

INPR Idaho Northern & Pacific Railroad Company

IRYM Illinois Railway Museum

IMRR Illinois & Midland Railroad Inc.

IC Illinois Central Railroad Company

IHB Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad Company

IHRC Indiana Hi-rail Corporation

ISRR Indiana Southern Railroad Company, Incorporated

IN Indiana Northeastern Railroad Company, Incoporated

INOH Indiana & Ohio Railroad, Incorporated

ITMZ Indiana Transportation Museum

INRD Indiana Rail Road Company

IOCR Indiana & Ohio Central Railroad, Incorporated

IORY Indiana & Ohio Railway

IOSX Indiana & Ohio Scenic Rail Corporation

IRM Indiana Railway Museum

ISSX Interchange Specialty Service Inc

IATR Iowa Traction Railroad Company

IANR Iowa Northern Railway Company

IAIS Iowa Interstate Railroad

ISSR Iss Rail, Inc.

JKL J. K. Line Incorporated (TIPP)

JGDX Jackson Gordonville & Delta Railroad

JPA Jacksonville Port Authority

JXPT Jaxport Terminal Railway Company

JEFW Jefferson Warrior Railroad

JJRX Joliet Junction Railroad

JERX Joppa & Eastern Railroad Company

KWT K.W.T. Railway, Incorporated

KLSC Kalamazoo, Lake Shore & Chicago Rwy (Reinstated 2/14/94)

KRTX Kanawha River Terminal

KBSR Kankakee, Beaverville & Southern Railroad Company

KCT Kansas City Terminal Railway Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -9 Railroad Codes

KCS Kansas City Southern Railway Company

KGEZ Kansas Gas & Electric

KSW Kansas Southwestern Railway

KRM Kentucky Railway Museum

KT Kentucky & Tennessee Railway

KJRY Keokuk Junction Railway

KMRY Kettle Moraine Railway

KRR Kiamichi Railroad Company LLC

KKRR Knox & Kane Railroad Company

KYLE Kyle Railroad Company

LKWR Lackland Western Railroad Company

LT Lake Terminal Railroad Company

LWAT Lake Whatcom Railway

LSMR Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad

LSI Lake Superior & Ishpeming Railroad Company

LSRC Lake State Railway Company

LSMT Lake Superior Museum Of Transportation

LSRX Lake Shore Railway

LVRC Lamoille Valley Railroad Company

LC Lancaster & Chester Railway Company

Landisville Railroad ** Use Code AMHR **

LNO Laona & Northern Railway

LRS Laurinburg & Southern Railroad Company

LCSR Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad, Company

LSR Leelanau Scenic Railroad

LINC Lewis & Clark Railroad Company

LBCX Lewisburg & Buffalo Creek Railroad

LXOH Lexington & Ohio Railroad Company Incorporated

LFIZ Litchfield Industrial Railroad

LRWN Little Rock & Western Railway, L.P.

LRR Little River Railroad

LKRR Little Kanawha River Rail

LRPA Little Rock Port Railroad Company

LPSG Live Oak, Perry, South Georgia Railway Company

LAL Livonia, Avon & Lakeville Railroad Corporation

LER Logansport & Eel River Short Line Company, Incorporated

LI Long Island Rail Road Company, The

LHRR Longhorn Railway Company

LS Longview Switching

LPN Longview, Portland & Northern Railway Company

LAJ Los Angeles Junction Railway Company

LNW Louisiana & North West Railroad Company

LDRR Louisiana & Delta Railroad

LA Louisiana & Arkansas Railway Company

LW Louisville & Wadley Railway Company

LIRC Louisville & Indiana Railroad Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -10 Railroad Codes

LNAL Louisville, New Albany & Corydon Railroad

LBR Lowville & Beaver River Railroad Company

LUN Ludington & Northern Railway

LSX Luzerene & Susquehanna Rwy Co.

MGRI M. G. Rail, Incorporated

CMPA Madison Railroad Division

MAA Magma Arizona Railroad Company

MVRY Mahoning Valley Railroad Company

MEC Maine Central Railroad Company

MDTT Maine Department Of Transportation

MC Maine Coast Railroad Corporation

MCPA Manattee County Port Authority

MPP Manitou & Pike's Peak Railroad Company

MJ Manufacturers' Junction Railway Company

MRS Manufacturers' Railway Company

MACZ Maryland Association Of Rail Commuters

MMID Maryland Midland Railway, Incorporated

MDT Maryland Dept. Of Transportation

MPAD Maryland Port Authority

MPA Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad Company

MDDE Maryland & Delaware Railroad Company

MCCL Mason City & Clear Lake Electric Railway Historical Society

MTAX Mass Transit Administration

MCER Massachusetts Central Railroad Corporation

MSTR Massena Terminal Railroad Company

MCR Mccloud Railway Company

MKC Mckeesport Connecting Railroad Company

MCLR Mclaughlin Line Railroad

MBRR Meridian & Bigbee Railroad Company

MNCW Metro North Commuter Railroad Company

MS Michigan Shore Railroad

MSTP Michigan State Trust For Railway Preservation

MSO Michigan Southern Railroad Company, Incorporated

MCRY Mid-Continent Railway

MRR Mid-Atlantic Railroad Company, Inc.

MMRR Mid-Michigan Railroad Company

MIDH Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad Company

MNJ Middletown & New Jersey Railway Company, Incorporated

MDLR Midland Terminal Company

MDRY Midlands Railway

MWCL Midwest Coal Handling, Incorporated

MBRX Milford-Bennington Railroad Company

MRSX Military Ocean Terminal Railroad At Sunny Point

MNNR Minnesota Commercial Railway

MNTM Minnesota Transportation Museum

MDW Minnesota, Dakota & Western Railway Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -11 Railroad Codes

MCTA Minnesota Central Railroad Company

MZL Minnesota Zephyr, Limited

MMR Minnesota & Manitoba Railroad

MSV Mississippi & Skuna Valley Railroad Company

MSCI Mississippi Central Railroad Company

MSE Mississippi Export Railroad Company

MSDR Mississippi Delta Railroad

MSRW Mississippian Railway Cooperative, Incorporated

MNA Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad Company, Inc.

MP Missouri Pacific Railroad Company

MET Modesto & Empire Traction Company

MHWA Mohawk, Adirondack & Northern Railroad Corporation

MWRL Molalla Western Railway Company

MCRR Monongahela Connecting Railroad Company

MRL Montana Rail Link

MWRRMontana Western Railway Company

MRMZ Monticello Railway Museum

Montpelier And Barre Railroad Company Former Code MN, Now WACR

ME Morristown & Erie Railway, Incorporated

MCSA Moscow, Camden & San Augustine Railroad

MVT Mount Vernon Terminal Railway, Incorporated

MH Mount Hood Railway Company

MRSR Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad

MNL Mountain Laurel Railroad Company

MWR Muncie & Western Railroad Company

METW Municipality Of East Troy

NCMX N C Transportation Museum

NJT N. J. Dept. Of Transportation

NVRR Napa Valley Railroad

NCYR Nash County Railroad

NERR Nashville & Eastern Railroad

NRI Nebkota Railway, Incorporated

NCRC Nebraska Central Railroad

NNRX Nevada Northern Railway

NSWX Neversweat & Washoe Railroad

NEGS New England Southern Railroad Company, Incorporated

NECR New England Central Railroad

NYLE New York & Lake Erie

NEWG New Georgia Railroad

NYCH New York Cross Harbor Railroad Terminal Corporation

NHCR New Hampshire Central Railroad, Incorporated

NHIR New Hope & Ivyland Railroad Company

NHN New Hampshire North Coast Railroad

NHRR New Hope & Ivyland Rail Road

NHVT New Hampshire & Vermont Railroad Company

NYSW New York, Susquehanna & Western Railroad Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -12 Railroad Codes

NOT New Orleans Terminal Company

NOLR New Orleans Lower Coast Railroad, Incorporated

NOPB New Orleans Public Belt Railroad

NJTR New Jersey Transit Rail Operations

NSR Newburgh & South Shore Railroad

NPSX Newport Star Clipper Dinner Train

NICX Niles Canyon Railway

NTRY Nimishillen & Tuscarawas Railway Company

NBER Nittany & Bald Eagle

NRR Nobles Rock Railroad (Former Code NRRX)

NPB Norfolk & Portsmouth Belt Line Railroad Company

NFD Norfolk, Franklin And Danville Railroad Company

NW Norfolk & Western Railway Company

NS Norfolk Southern Corporation

NSHR North Shore Railroad

NCDX North County Transit District

NCRR North Coast Railroad

NSSR North Shore Scenic Railroad

NCVA North Carolina & Virginia Railroad Company

NIRC Northeast Illinois Regional Comuter Rail Corp. (METRA)

NEKM Northeast Kansas & Missouri

NICD Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District

NN Northern Nevada Railroad Corporation

NOW Northern Ohio & Western Railway, Ltd.

NCR Northern Central Railway Co.

NOKL Northwestern Oklahoma Railroad Company

OTR Oakland Terminal Railway

OGEE Ogeechee Railway Company

OHIC Ohi Rail Corporation

OSRR Ohio Southern Railroad Company

ORY Ohio Railway Museum

OHCR Ohio Central Railroad Company

OHPA Ohio & Pennsylvania Railroad Company

OCTL Oil Creek & Titusville Lines

OAR Old Augusta Railroad Company

OCN Olde Colony & New Port

OLB Omaha, Lincoln & Beatrice Railway Company

ONCT Ontario Central Railroad Corporation

OMID Ontario Midland Railroad Corporation

OERR Oregon Eastern Railroad

ORR Osage Railroad

OTVR Otter Tail Valley Railroad Company, Incorporated

OUCH Ouachita Railroad

OHRY Owego & Harford Railway, Incorporated
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -13 Railroad Codes

PLW P L & W Railroad Company

PSRM Pacific SW Railway Museum (San Diego RR Museum)

PARN Pacific & Arctic Railroad & Navigation Company

PRSX Pacific Rail Services

PI Paducah & Illinois Railroad Company

PAL Paducah & Louisville Railway Company

Palouse River Railroad Company **Use Code BLMR**

PNR Panhandle Northern Railroad Company

PRT Parr Terminal Railroad

PBR Patapsco & Back Rivers Railroad Company

PRV Pearl River Valley Railroad Company

PVS Pecos Valley Southern Railway Company

POVA Pend Oreille Valley Railroad, Incorporated

PT Peninsula Terminal Company

PC Penn Central Transportation Company

PPHW Peoria, Peoria Heights & Western Railroad

PPU Peoria & Pekin Union Railway Company

PBNE Philadelphia, Bethlehem & New England Railroad

PICK Pickens Railway Company

PBRR Pine Belt Southern RR

PVRR Pioneer Valley Railroad Company, Incorporated

PWJ Pioneer Railroad Company, Incorporated

PS Pittsburg & Shawmut Railroad Company

PAM Pittsburgh, Allegheny & Mckees Rocks Railroad

PCY Pittsburgh, Chartiers & Youghiogheny Railway

PCDX Pittsburgh & Conneaut Dock Company

PTC Plainview Terminal Company

PCIX Plant City Industrial Park

PLL Plymouth & Lincoln

PCN Point Comfort & Northern Railway Company

PATH Port Authority Trans Hudson

PPBD Port Of Palm Beach Terminal

POCA Port Of Catoosa

POTB Port Of Tillamook Bay Railroad

PRI Port Railroads, Incorporated

POBR Port Of Royal Slope Railroad

POAK Port Of Oakland

PRYL Port Royal Railroad

PLCX Port Of Lake Charles

PBVR Port Bienville Railroad

MAUP Port Of Manatee

PUCC Port Utilities Commission Of Charleston, S.C.

PTRA Port Terminal Railroad Association

PTR Port Terminal Railroad Of South Carolina (Former Code PTRS)

PTO Portland Terminal (Oregon)

PNWR Portland & Western Railroad, Inc.

PDCZ Portland Development Commission

PEX Potomac Eagle Scenic Rail Excursion
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -14 Railroad Codes

PNW Prescott & Northwestern Railroad Company

PGCX Proctor & Gamble Cellulose

PW Providence & Worcester Railroad Company

PSHX Puget Sound Railway Historical Association

QARX Queen Anne Railroad

QRR Quincy Railroad Company

QBT Quincy Bay Terminal Company

RJCM R. J. Corman Railroad Company/Memphis Line

RJCW R. J. Corman, Western Ohio Line

RJCR R. J. Corman Railroad

RJCP R. J. Corman Railroad Company/Pennsylvania Lines, Inc.

RJCL R. J. Corman Railroad Company/Cleveland Line

RSIX Rail Switching L.L.C.

RTI Rail Tours, Incorporated

RSM Railroad Switching Service Of Missouri, Incorporated

RARW Rarus Railway Company

RERX Reader Railroad

RBMN Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad Commision

RRVW Red River Valley & Western Railroad

RBKR Red Bank Railroad Company

RSNR Red Spring & Northern Railroad

RRC Redmont Railway Company, Inc.

RBX Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus

RVSC Rio Valley Switching Company

RT River Terminal Railway Company

RS Roberval & Saguenay Railway Company

RRCO Rochelle Railroad Company

RSR Rochester Southern Railroad, Incorporated

RSS Rockdale, Sandow & Southern Railroad Company

RSP Roscoe, Snyder & Pacific Railway Company

SRN Sabine River & Northern Railroad Company

SCRT Sacramento County Regional Transit District

SGVY Saginaw Valley Railway Company, Incorporated

SL Salt Lake City Southern Railroad Company, Incorporated

SLGW Salt Lake, Garfield & Western Railway Company

SMA San Manuel Arizona Railroad Company

SLC San Luis Central Railroad Company

SWKR San Pedro & Southwestern Railway Company

SJVR San Joaquin Valley Railroad Company

SDNX San Diego Northern Railway

SDIY San Diego & Imperial Valley

SFBR San Francisco Belt Railroad
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -15 Railroad Codes

SDTI San Diego Trolley Incorporated

SS Sand Springs Railway Company

SAN Sandersville Railroad Company

SCBG Santa Cruz, Big Tree & Pacific Railroad

SMV Santa Maria Valley Railroad Company

SFS Santa Fe Southern Railway, Incorporated

SBNX Saracuse Binghampton And New York Railroad

SSDK Savannah State Docks Railroad Company

SCRX Schuylkill Country Rail Authority

SWGR Seagraves, Whiteface & Lubbock Railroad Company

SVTX Seaview Transportation Co., Inc.

SGLR Seminole Gulf Railroad

SE Semo Port Railroad, Inc.

SQVR Sequatchie Valley Railroad

SVRR Shamokin Valley Railroad Company

SVIZ Shelbyville Industrial Railroad

SV Shenandoah Valley Railroad

SMSX Shortline Marketing Services

SLGG Sidney & Lowe Railroad Incorporated

SRYC Sierra Railway Company Of California Limited

SERA Sierra Railroad Company

SMRR Sisseton Milbank Railroad

SSL Skaneateles Short Line RR

SHRX Smokey Hill Railway

SLRS SMS Rail Service, Inc.

SOM Somerset Railroad Company

SOO Soo Line Railroad Company

SKJA Soo KCS Joint Agency

SLAL South Plains Lamesa Railroad, Ltd.

SKOL South Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad Company

SCRF South Carolina Central Railroad Company, Incorporated

SCFE South Central Florida Railroad

SCTR South Central Tennessee Railroad Corporation

SCXF South Central Florida Express, Inc.

SBK South Brooklyn Railway Company

SO South Orient Railroad Company, Ltd.

SB South Buffalo Railway Company

SBVR South Branch Valley Railroad

SEKR Southeast Kansas Railroad

SEPA Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority

SEI Southeastern International Railroad

SMRS Southern Michigan Railroad Society

SCAX Southern California Regional Rail Authority

SUAB Southern Alabama Railroad Company, Incorporated

SSC Southern Switching Company

SSWN Southern Pacific, Chicago-St. Louis Corporation

SERX Southern Electric Railroad

SOU Southern Railway Company (NS)
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -16 Railroad Codes

SP Southern Pacific Transportation Company

SEGX Southern Electric Generating Company

SIND Southern Indiana Railway, Incorporated

SIM Southern Illinois & Missouri Bridge Line

SRNJ Southern Railroad Company Of New Jersey

SWP Southwest Pennsylvania Railroad Company

SW Southwestern Railroad Company, Incorporated

ST Springfield Terminal Railway Company (Vermont)

SLR St. Lawrence & Atlantic Railroad Company

SM St. Marys Railroad Company

SJRT St. John's River Terminal Company

SSW St. Louis Southwestern Railway Company

SLCR St. Louis & Chain Of Rocks Railroad

SLOI St. Louis, Iron Mountain, & Southern

SLST St. Louis Steam Train Association

STLH St. Lawrence & Hudson Railway Company Limited

STMA St. Maries River Railroad Company

SLRR St. Lawrence & Raquette River Railroad

Steamtown Foundation (Use Code SNCX)

SNCX Steamtown National Historic Site (Former Code SF)

SH Steelton & Highspire Railroad

STRT Stewartstown Railroad Company

STE Stockton Terminal & Eastern Railroad

SPBR Stockton Public Belt Railroad

SMPX Stone Mountain Park

SMRX Stone Mountain Railroad

SBRR Stourbridge Railroad Company

SRC Strasburg Railroad Company

TE Tacoma Eastern Railway Company

TMBL Tacoma Municipal Belt Line Railway

TSRR Tennessee Southern Railroad Company, Incorporated

TVRM Tennessee Valley Railroad

TENN Tennessee Railroad Company (NS)

TKEN Tennken Railroad Company Incorporated

TASD Terminal Railway Alabama State Docks

TRRA Terminal Railroad Association Of St. Louis

TCT Texas City Terminal Railway Company

TELX Texas Limited (excursion Train, Incorporated)

TXTC Texas Transportation Company

TXOR Texas & Oklahoma Railroad Company

TXNW Texas Northwestern Railway Company

TXGN Texas, Gonzales & Northern Railway Company

TSR Texas State Railroad

TM Texas Mexican Railway Company

TSE Texas South-Eastern Railroad Company

TOE Texas, Oklahoma & Eastern Railroad Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -17 Railroad Codes

TN Texas & Northern Railway Company

TNER Texas Northeastern Division--Mid-Michigan Railroad

TNMR Texas & New Mexico Railroad Company (Austin & Northwestern Div)

TNOX Texas North Orient Railroad

TBRY Thermal Belt Railway

Three County Commuter Rail Organ. (Use Code TCCX)

TTR Tijuana And Tecate Railway Company

TIOC Tioga Central Railroad

TPW Toledo, Peoria & Western Railway Corporation

TLEW Toledo Lake Erie & Western Railroad

TR Tomahawk Railway, L.P.

TIRL Tonawanda Island Railroad Incorporated

TSWR Toppenish Simcoe & Western

TMSS Towanda Monroeton Shippers Lifeline, Incorporated

TULX Trains Unlimited

TCSX Trancisco Rail Services Company

TTIS Transkentucky Transportation Railroad, Incorporated

TCCX Tri-County Commuter Rail Authority

TRC Trona Railway Company

TCG Tucson, Cornelia & Gila Bend Railroad Company

TVRR Tulare Valley Railroad Company

TSU Tulsa-Sapulpa Union Railway Company LLC

TCKR Turtle Creek Industrial Railroad, Incorporated

TSBY Tuscola & Saginaw Bay Railroad Company, Incorporated

TWIN Twin State Railroad Corporation

TSRD Twin State Railroad Company

TCWR Twin City & Western Railroad

TYBR Tyburn Railroad Company

UCIR Union County Industrial Railroad Company

UT Union Term. Railway Co. "St. Joseph, Mo."

URR Union Railroad Company (Pittsburgh)

UP Union Pacific Railroad Company

USA United States Army

UMP Upper Merion & Plymouth Railroad Company

UCRY Utah Central Railway Company

UTAH Utah Railway Company

VS V&S Railway, Incorporated

VRCX Vaaughan Railroad Company

VR Valdosta Railway, L.P.

VALE Valley Railroad Company

VRRC Vandalia Railroad Company

VCY Ventura County Railway Company

VTR Vermont Railway, Incorporated
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -18 Railroad Codes

VSRR Virginia Southern Railroad

VREX Virginia Railway Express

VTRR Virginia & Truckee Railroad Company, Incorporated

WOHO Wabash & Ohio Railroad (Out Of Operation)

WAER Wabash & Erie Railroad (Out Of Operation)

WCLR Waccamaw Coast Line Railroad Company

WS Walkersville Southern Railroad, Incorporated

WHOE Walking Horse & Eastern Railroad Company

WSR Warren & Saline River Railroad Company

WTRM Warren & Trumbull Railroad Company

WCRC Washington Central Railroad Company

WACR Washington County Railroad Corporation

WCTR WCTU Railway Company

WCOR Wellsboro & Corning Railroad Company

WTSE West Shore Railroad

WTNN West Tennessee Railroad Corporation

WTLR West Texas And Lubbock Railroad Company Incorporated

WVN West Virginia Northern Railroad, Limited

West Jersey Short Line ** Now Code PWJ **

WJ West Jersey Railroad Company

WRRC Western Railroad Company

WKRL Western Kentucky Railway, LLC

WMSR Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

WPSX Western Plant Services, Incorporated (Ca)

WRM Western Railway Museum

WCTX Weyerhaeuder Woods Railroads

WTCX Weyerheuser Company

WE Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway Company

WVRR Whitewater Valley Railroad

WTA Wichita Terminal Asosciation

WTJR Wichita, Tillman & Jackson Railway Company, Incorporated

WBC Wilkes-Barre Connecting Railroad Company

WPRR Willamette & Pacific Railroad, Inc.

WVR Willamette Valley Railway Company

WGR Willamina & Grand Ronde Railway Company

WWRC Wilmington & Western Railroad Company (Former Code WAW)

WTRY Wilmington Terminal Railroad Incorporated

WSRY Winamac Southern Railway Company

WW Winchester & Western Railroad Company

WSS Winston-Salem Southbound Railway

WGCR Wiregrass Central Railroad Company

WICT Wisconsin Calumet Railroad

WSOR Wisconsin & Southern Railroad Company

WC Wisconsin Central Ltd.

WYCO Wyoming & Colorado Railroad
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -19 Railroad Codes

YVRR Yadkin Valley Railroad Company

YVRX Yakima Valley Rail & Steam Museum

YSLR Yolo Shortline Railroad Company

YKR Yorkrail, Incorporated

YARR Youngstown & Austintown Railroad

YW Yreka Western Railroad Company
 

APPENDIX A - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix A -20 Railroad Codes

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FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix B -1 State Codes

APPENDIX B

State Codes

AL Alabama MT Montana

AK Alaska NE Nebraska

AZ Arizona NV Nevada

AR Arkansas NH New Hampshire

CA California NJ New Jersey

CO Colorado NM New Mexico

CT Connecticut NY New York

DE Delaware NC North Carolina

DC District of Columbia ND North Dakota

FL Florida OH Ohio

GA Georgia OK Oklahoma

ID Idaho OR Oregon

IL Illinois PA Pennsylvania

IN Indiana RI Rhode Island

IA Iowa SC South Carolina

KS Kansas SD South Dakota

KY Kentucky TN Tennessee

LA Louisiana TX Texas

ME Maine UT Utah

MD Maryland VT Vermont

MA Massachusetts VA Virginia

MI Michigan WA Washington

MN Minnesota WV West Virginia

MS Mississippi WI Wisconsin

MO Missouri WY Wyoming
 

APPENDIX B - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix B -2 State Codes

This page has been intentionally left blank. 
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 1 Cause Codes

APPENDIX C

Train Accident Cause Codes

TRACK, ROADBED AND STRUCTURES

 Roadbed

T001 Roadbed settled or soft 

T002 Washout/rain/slide/flood/snow/ice damage to track 

T099 Other roadbed defects (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Track Geometry

T101 Cross level of track irregular (at joints) 

T102 Cross level of track irregular (not at joints) 

T103 Deviation from uniform top of rail profile 

T104 Disturbed ballast section 

T105 Insufficient ballast section 

T106 Superelevation improper, excessive, or insufficient 

T107 Superelevation runoff improper 

T108 Track alignment irregular (other than buckled/sunkink) 

T109 Track alignment irregular (buckled/sunkink) 

T110 Wide gage (due to defective or missing crossties) 

T111 Wide gage (due to defective or missing spikes or other rail fasteners) 

T112 Wide gage (due to loose, broken, or defective gage rods) 

T113 Wide gage (due to worn rails) 

T199 Other track geometry defects (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Rail, Joint Bar and Rail Anchoring

T201 Bolt hole crack or break 

T202 Broken base of rail 

T203 Broken weld (plant) 

T204 Broken weld (field) 

T205 Defective or missing crossties (use code T110 if results in wide gage)

T206 Defective spikes or missing spikes or other rail fasteners (use code T111 if results in wide gage)

T207 Detail fracture from shelling or head check 

T208 Engine burn fracture 

T210 Head and web separation (outside joint bar limits) 

T211 Head and web separation (within joint bar limits) 

T212 Horizontal split head 

T213 Joint bar broken (compromise) 

T214 Joint bar broken (insulated) 

T215 Joint bar broken (noninsulated) 

T216 Joint bolts, broken, or missing

T217 Mismatched rail-head contour 

T218 Piped rail 

T219 Rail defect with joint bar repair 

T220 Transverse/compound fissure 
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 2 Cause Codes

T221 Vertical split head 

T222 Worn rail 

T299 Other rail and joint bar defects (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Frogs, Switches and Track Appliances

T301 Derail, defective 

T302 Expansion joint failed or malfunctioned 

T303 Guard rail loose/broken or mislocated 

T304 Railroad crossing frog, worn or broken 

T305 Retarder worn, broken, or malfunctioning 

T306 Retarder yard skate defective 

T307 Spring/power switch mechanism malfunction 

T308 Stock rail worn, broken or disconnected 

T309 Switch (hand operated) stand mechanism broken, loose, or worn 

T310 Switch connecting or operating rod is broken or defective 

T311 Switch damaged or out of adjustment 

T312 Switch lug/crank broken 

T313 Switch out of adjustment because of insufficient rail anchoring 

T314 Switch point worn or broken 

T315 Switch rod worn, bent, broken, or disconnected 

T316 Turnout frog (rigid) worn, or broken 

T317 Turnout frog (self guarded), worn or broken 

T318 Turnout frog (spring) worn, or broken 

T319 Switch point gapped (between switch point and stock rail)

T399 Other frog, switch and track appliance defects (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Other Way and Structure

T401 Bridge misalignment or failure 

T402 Flangeway clogged 

T403 Engineering design or construction 

T499 Other way and structure defect (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

SIGNAL AND COMMUNICATION

S001 Automatic cab signal displayed false proceed 

S002 Automatic cab signal inoperative 

S003 Automatic train control system inoperative 

S004 Automatic train-stop device inoperative 

S005 Block signal displayed false proceed 

S006 Classification yard automatic control system switch failure

S007 Classification yard automatic control system retarder failure 

S008 Fixed signal improperly displayed (defective)

S009 Interlocking signal displayed false proceed 

S010 Power device interlocking failure 
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 3 Cause Codes

S011 Power switch failure 

S012 Radio communication equipment failure 

S013 Other communication equipment failure 

S099 Other signal failures (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL FAILURES

 Brakes

E00C Air hose uncoupled or burst 

E00L Air hose uncoupled or burst (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E01C Hydraulic hose uncoupled or burst 

E01L Hydraulic hose uncoupled or burst (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E02C Broken brake pipe or connections 

E02L Broken brake pipe or connections (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E03C Obstructed brake pipe (closed angle cock, ice, etc.) 

E03L Obstructed brake pipe (closed angle cock, ice, etc.) (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E04C Other brake components damaged, worn, broken, or disconnected

E04L Other brake components damaged, worn, broken, or disconnected (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E05C Brake valve malfunction (undesired emergency) 

E05L Brake valve malfunction (undesired emergency) (LOCOMOTIVE)

E06C Brake valve malfunction (stuck brake, etc.) 

E06L Brake valve malfunction (stuck brake, etc.) (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E07C Rigging down or dragging 

E07L Rigging down or dragging (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E08C Hand brake (including gear) broken or defective 

E08L Hand brake (including gear) broken or defective (LOCOMOTIVE)

E0HC Hand brake linkage and/or connections broken or defective 

E0HL Hand brake linkage/Connections broken/defective (LOCOMOTIVE)

E09C Other brake defects, cars (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

E09L Other brake defects, (Provide detailed description in narrative) (LOCOMOTIVE) 

 Trailer Or Container On Flatcar

E11C Broken or defective tiedown equipment 

E12C Broken or defective container 

E13C Broken or defective trailer 

E19C Other trailer or container on flat car defects (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Body

E20C Body bolster broken or defective 

E20L Body bolster broken or defective (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E21C Center sill broken or bent 

E21L Center sill broken or bent (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E22C Draft sill broken or bent 

E22L Draft sill broken or bent (LOCOMOTIVE) 
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 4 Cause Codes

E23C Center plate broken or defective 

E23L Center plate broken or defective (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E24C Center plate disengaged from truck (car off center) 

E24L Center plate disengaged from truck unit/off center (LOCOMOTIVE)

E25C Center pin broken or missing 

E25L Center pin broken or missing (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E26C Center plate attachment defective 

E26L Center plate attachment defective (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E27C Side sill broken 

E27L Side sill broken (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E29C Other body defects, (CAR) (Provide detailed description in narrative)

E29L Other body defects, (LOCOMOTIVE) (Provide detailed description in narrative)

 Coupler and Draft System

E30C Knuckle broken or defective 

E30L Knuckle broken or defective (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E31C Coupler mismatch, high/low 

E31L Coupler mismatch, high/low (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E32C Coupler drawhead broken or defective 

E32L Coupler drawhead broken or defective (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E33C Coupler retainer pin/cross key missing 

E33L Coupler retainer pin/cross key missing (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E34C Draft gear/mechanism broken or defective (including yoke) 

E34L Draft gear/mechanism broken/defective (including yoke) (LOCOMOTIVE)

E35C Coupler carrier broken or defective 

E35L Coupler carrier broken or defective (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E36C Coupler shank broken or defective (includes defective alignment control)

E36L Coupler shank broken or defective (includes defective includes defective alignment control) (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E37C Failure of articulated connectors 

E37L Failure of articulated connectors (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E39C Other coupler and draft system defects, (CAR) (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

E39L Other coupler and draft system defects, (LOCOMOTIVE) (Provide detailed description in narrative)

 Truck Components

E40C Side bearing clearance insufficient 

E40L Side bearing clearance insufficient (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E41C Side bearing clearance excessive 

E41L Side bearing clearance excessive (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E42C Side bearing(s) broken 

E42L Side bearing(s) broken (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E43C Side bearing(s) missing 

E43L Side bearing(s) missing (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E44C Truck bolster broken 

E44L Truck bolster broken (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E45C Side frame broken 

E45L Side frame broken (LOCOMOTIVE) 
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 5 Cause Codes

E46C Truck bolster stiff, improper lateral or improper swiveling 

E46L Truck bolster stiff, improper lateral or improper swiveling(LOCOMOTIVE) 

E47C Defective snubbing 

E47L Defective snubbing (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E48C Broken, missing, or otherwise defective springs 

E48L Broken, missing, or otherwise defective springs (LOCOMOTIVE)

E4TC Truck hunting 

E4TL Truck hunting (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E49C Other truck component defects, (CAR) (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

E49L Other truck component defects, (LOCOMOTIVE) (Provide detailed description in narrative)

 Axles and Journal Bearings

E51C Broken or bent axle between wheel seats 

E51L Broken or bent axle between wheel seats (LOCOMOTIVE)

E52C Journal (plain) failure from overheating

E52L Journal (plain) failure from overheating (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E53C Journal (roller bearing) failure from overheating 

E53L Journal (roller bearing) failure from overheating- LOCOMOTIVE

E54C Journal fractured, new cold break 

E54L Journal fractured, new cold break (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E55C Journal fractured, cold break, previously overheated 

E55L Journal fractured, cold break, previously overheated (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E59C Other axle and journal bearing defects (CAR) (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

E59L Other axle and journal bearing defects (LOCOMOTIVE) (Provide detailed description in narrative)

 Wheels

E60C Broken flange 

E60L Broken flange (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E61C Broken rim 

E61L Broken rim (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E62C Broken plate 

E62L Broken plate (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E63C Broken hub 

E63L Broken hub (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E64C Worn flange 

E64L Worn flange (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E65C Worn tread 

E65L Worn tread (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E66C Damaged flange or tread (flat) 

E66L Damaged flange or tread (flat) (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E67C Damaged flange or tread (build up) 

E67L Damaged flange or tread (build up) (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E68C Loose wheel 

E68L Loose wheel (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E6AC Thermal crack, flange or tread 

E6AL Thermal crack, flange or tread (LOCOMOTIVE) 
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 6 Cause Codes

E69C Other wheel defects (CAR) (Provide detailed description in narrative)

E69L Other wheel defects (LOCOMOTIVE) (Provide detailed description in narrative)

 Locomotives

E70L Running gear failure (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E71L Traction motor failure (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E72L Crank case or air box explosion (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E73L Oil or fuel fire (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E74L Electrically caused fire (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E75L Current collector system (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E76L Remote control equipment inoperative (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E77L Broken or defective swing hanger or spring plank (LOCOMOTIVE) 

E79L Other locomotive defects (Provide detail description in narrative) 

 Doors

E80C Box car plug door open 

E81C Box car plug door, attachment defective 

E82C Box car plug door, locking lever not in place 

E83C Box car door, other than plug, open 

E84C Box car door, other than plug, attachment defective 

E85C Bottom outlet car door open 

E86C Bottom outlet car door attachment defective 

E89C Other car door defects (Provide detail description in narrative) 

 General Mechanical and Electrical Failures

E99C Other mechanical and electrical failures, (CAR) (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

E99L Other mechanical and electrical failures, (LOCOMOTIVE) (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

TRAIN OPERATION - HUMAN FACTORS

 Brakes, Use of

H008 Improper operation of train line air connections (bottling the air) 

H017 Failure to properly secure engine(s) (railroad employee) 

H018 Failure to properly secure hand brake on car(s) (railroad employee)

H019 Failure to release hand brakes on car(s) (railroad employee)

H020 Failure to apply sufficient number of hand brakes on car(s) (railroad employee) 

H021 Failure to apply hand brakes on car(s) (railroad employee)

H022 Failure to properly secure engine(s) or car(s) (non railroad employee)

H025 Failure to control speed of car using hand brake (railroad employee)

H099 Use of brakes, other (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Employee Physical Condition
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 7 Cause Codes

H101 Impairment of efficiency or judgment because of drugs or alcohol

H102 Incapacitation due to injury or illness 

H103 Employee restricted in work or motion 

H104 Employee asleep 

H199 Employee physical condition, other (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Flagging, Fixed, Hand and Radio Signals 

H201 Absence of fixed signal (Blue Signal) 

H202 Fixed signal improperly displayed (Blue Signal) 

H203 Fixed signal improperly displayed 

H204 Fixed signal, failure to comply 

H205 Flagging, improper or failure to flag 

H206 Flagging signal, failure to comply 

H207 Hand signal, failure to comply 

H208 Hand signal improper 

H209 Hand signal, failure to give/receive 

H210 Radio communication, failure to comply 

H211 Radio communication, improper 

H212 Radio communication, failure to give/receive 

H215 Block signal, failure to comply 

H216 Interlocking signal, failure to comply 

H217 Failure to observe hand signals given during a wayside inspection of moving train

H299 Other signal causes (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 General Switching Rules

H301 Car(s) shoved out and left out of clear 

H302 Cars left foul 

H303 Derail, failure to apply or remove 

H304 Hazardous materials regulations, failure to comply 

H305 Instruction to train/yard crew improper 

H306 Shoving movement, absence of man on or at leading end of movement

H307 Shoving movement, man on or at leading end of movement, failure to control

H308 Skate, failure to remove or place 

H309 Failure to stretch cars before shoving 

H310 Failure to couple 

H311 Moving cars while loading ramp/hose/chute/cables/bridge plate, etc., not in proper position

H312 Passed couplers 

H313 Retarder, improper manual operation 

H314 Retarder yard skate improperly applied 

H315 Portable derail, improperly applied 

H399 Other general switching rules (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Main Track Authority

H401 Failure to stop train in clear 
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 8 Cause Codes

H402 Motor car or on-track equipment rules, failure to comply 

H403 Movement of engine(s) or car(s) without authority (railroad employee) 

H404 Train order, track warrant, track bulletin, or timetable authority, failure to comply

H405 Train orders, track warrants, direct traffic control, track bulletins, radio, error in preparation, transmission or delivery 

H406 Train orders, track warrants, direct traffic control, track bulletins, written, error in preparation, transmission or delivery

H499 Other main track authority causes (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Train Handling/Train Make-Up

H501 Improper train make-up at initial terminal 

H502 Improper placement of cars in train between terminals 

H503 Buffing or slack action excessive, train handling 

H504 Buffing or slack action excessive, train make-up 

H505 Lateral drawbar force on curve excessive, train handling 

H506 Lateral drawbar force on curve excessive, train make-up 

H507 Lateral drawbar force on curve excessive, car geometry (short car/long car combination)

H508 Improper train make-up 

H509 Improper train inspection

H510 Automatic brake, insufficient (H001) -- see note after cause H599

H511 Automatic brake, excessive (H002) 

H512 Automatic brake, failure to use split reduction (H003) 

H513 Automatic brake, other improper use (H004) 

H514 Failure to allow air brakes to fully release before proceeding (H005)

H515 Failure to properly cut-out brake valves on locomotives (H006)

H516 Failure to properly cut-in brake valves on locomotives (H007)

H517 Dynamic brake, insufficient (H009) 

H518 Dynamic brake, excessive (H010) 

H519 Dynamic brake, too rapid adjustment (H011) 

H520 Dynamic brake, excessive axles (H012)

H521 Dynamic brake, other improper use (H013)

H522 Throttle (power), improper use (H014)

H523 Throttle (power), too rapid adjustment (H015) 

H524 Excessive horsepower (H016)

H525 Independent (engine) brake, improper use (except actuation) (H023)

H526 Failure to actuate off independent brake (H024) 

H599 Other causes relating to train handling or makeup (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

Note: The description of the causes for codes H510 through H526 were originally found in subgroup

"Brakes, Use of". It has been decided that these causes are more appropriate to the "Train

Handling/Train Makeup" subgroup. Consequently, it was necessary to assign new codes in order to

maintain the coding convention and to simplify grouping of causes by computer. The original code

has been appended to the description to aid in data conversion.

 Speed

H601 Coupling speed excessive 

H602 Switching movement, excessive speed 

H603 Train inside yard limits, excessive speed 
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 9 Cause Codes

H604 Train outside yard limits under clear block, excessive speed

H605 Failure to comply with restricted speed

H606 Train outside yard limits in nonblock territory, excessive speed

H699 Speed, other (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Switches, Use of

H701 Spring Switch not cleared before reversing 

H702 Switch improperly lined 

H703 Switch not latched or locked 

H704 Switch previously run through 

H705 Moveable point switch frog improperly lined

H799 Use of switches, other (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Cab Signals

H821 Automatic cab signal, failure to comply 

H822 Automatic cab signal cut out 

H823 Automatic train-stop device cut out 

H824 Automatic train control device cut out 

H899 Other causes relating to cab signals (provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Miscellaneous

H991 Tampering with safety/protective device(s) 

H992 Operation of locomotive by uncertified/unqualified person

H993 Human Factor - track

Example: Track is inspected and an FRA defect is found; however, the track supervisor decides to delay repairs and

does not slow order that location. A derailment occurs which is attributable to the defective track condition.

H994 Human Factor - signal

Example: A signal maintainer was servicing the signal cabinet. It was later determined, during an investigation of a rearend collision, that the repairs were improperly performed causing a clear signal to be incorrectly displayed.

H995 Human Factor - motive power and equipment

Example: A car inspector observes an obvious thin flange wheel that normally requires the car to be removed from

service. However, because the train is ready to leave, he elects to leave in service. The wheel splits the next switch

point and the car derails.

H999 Other train operation/human factors (Provide detailed description in narrative)

MISCELLANEOUS CAUSES NOT OTHERWISE LISTED 

 Environmental Conditions
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 10 Cause Codes

M101 Snow, ice, mud, gravel, coal, etc. on track 

M102 Extreme environmental condition - TORNADO 

M103 Extreme environmental condition - FLOOD 

M104 Extreme environmental condition - DENSE FOG 

M105 Extreme environmental condition - EXTREME WIND VELOCITY 

M199 Other extreme environmental conditions (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Loading Procedures

M201 Load shifted 

M202 Load fell from car 

M203 Overloaded car 

M204 Improperly loaded car 

M205 Oversized load, misrouted 

M206 Trailer or container tiedown equipment improperly applied 

M207 Overloaded/improperly loaded container/trailer on flat car

M299 Miscellaneous loading procedures (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Accidents

M301 Highway user impairment because of drug or alcohol usage (as determined by local authorities, e.g., police) 

M302 Highway user inattentiveness 

M303 Highway user misjudgment under normal weather and traffic conditions

M304 Highway user cited for violation of highway-rail grade crossing traffic laws

M305 Highway user unawareness due to environmental factors (angle of sun, etc.)

M306 Highway user inability to stop due to extreme weather conditions (dense fog, ice or snow packed road, etc.)

M307 Malfunction, improper operation of train activated warning devices 

M399 Other causes (Provide detailed description in narrative) 

 Unusual Operational Situations

M401 Emergency brake application to avoid accident 

M402 Object or equipment on or fouling track (motor vehicle - other than highway-rail crossing) 

M403 Object or equipment on or fouling track (livestock) 

M404 Object or equipment on or fouling track - other than above (for vandalism, see code M503) 

M405 Interaction of lateral/vertical forces (includes harmonic rock off) 

M406 Fire, other than vandalism, involving on-track equipment 

M407 Automatic hump retarder failed to sufficiently slow car due to foreign material on wheels of car being humped

M408 Yard skate slid and failed to stop cars 

M409 Objects such as lading chains or straps fouling switches 

M410 Objects such as lading chains or straps fouling wheels 

 Other Miscellaneous

M501 Interference (other than vandalism) with railroad operations by nonrailroad employee 

M502 Vandalism of on-track equipment, e.g., brakes released
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 11 Cause Codes

M503 Vandalism of track or track appliances, e.g., objects placed on track, switch thrown, etc.

M504 Failure by nonrailroad employee, e.g., industry employee, to control speed of car using hand brake 

M505 Cause under investigation (Corrected report will be forwarded at later date) 

M599 Other miscellaneous causes (Provide detailed description in narrative)
APPENDIX C - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Train Accident Appendix C - Page 12 Cause Codes

This page has been intentionally left blank.
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 1 Employee Job Codes

APPENDIX D

Employee Job Codes

EXECUTIVES, OFFICIALS, AND STAFF ASSISTANTS

101 Executives and General Officers President, Vice President, Asst. Vice President, Controller,

General Counsel, Treasurer, Director (head of subdepartment),

General Supt., (subdept. head), Chief Engineer, General Manager

(department or subdepartment head), Chief Medical Officer.

102 Corporate Staff Managers Director (other than subdepartment head), Asst. Director, Asst.

General Manager (not regional), Manager, Asst. Manager, Asst.

Chief Engineer, Purchasing Agent, Asst. General Counsel,

Superintendent (not division), Asst. to (corporate, executive or

general officer), Executive Asst. (to corporate executive) Budget

Officer.

103 Regional & Division Officers Assistants and Staff

Assistants

Asst. General Manager, Asst. Regional Manager, General Supt.,

Asst. to General Manager, Division Supt., Master Mechanic,

District Engineer, Asst. Superintendent, Captain of Police,

Division Engineer.

104 Transportation Officers/Managers Trainmaster, Asst. Train Master, General Yardmaster, General

Road Foreman, Road Foreman, Asst. Road Foreman, Chief

Power Supervisor (motive).

100 Executives, Officials, and Staff Assistants (other) Executives, Officials, and Staff Assistants not listed above.

PROFESSIONAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE

201 Professionals (other than those reported in 101

and 102

General Attorney, Asst. General Attorney, Attorney, Commerce

Counsel, Medical Officer, Surgeon, Company Surgeon, Engineer,

Architect, Chief Chemist, Nurse, General Accountant, Corporate

Accountant, Supervisor Programming, Senior Computer System

Specialist, Senior System Analyst, Chief Draftsman.

202 Subprofessionals Draftsman, Chemist, Asst. Chemist, X-ray Technician, Supervisor

Estimating, Junior Engineer, Engineering Trainee, Photographer,

Computer Programmer, Computer Analyst, Market Analyst,

Pricing Analyst, Employment Supervisor, Research Analyst.

203 Auditors, Traveling Auditors Traveling Auditor, Accounting Specialist Auditors, Operations

Traveling Auditors, Station Auditors.

204 General & Administrative Supervisors General Supervisor, Supervisor, Chief Clerk, Office Supervisor,

Supervisor Administration Office Manager, Supervising Clerk,

Head Clerk, Asst. Chief Clerk, Supervising Cashier, Division
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 2 Employee Job Codes

Supervisor, Regional Supervisor, Budget Supervisor,

Administrative Supervisor, Manager of Materials, Administrative

Asst.

205 Sales & Traffic Representatives & Agents Freight Traffic Agent, Coal Traffic Agent, Sales Representative,

Freight Sales Representative, Freight Traffic Representative,

Passenger Sales Representative.

206 Freight and Other Claims Agents and

Investigators

Claim Agent, Claim Investigator, Freight Claim Agent, Freight

Claim Investigator.

207 Supervising & Chief Claim Agents Chief Claim Agent, Chief Freight Claim Agent, Asst. Chief Claim

Agent, Chief District Claim Agent, District Freight Claim Agent,

Chief Claim Investigator

208 Lieutenants & Sergeants of Police Police Lieutenant, Police Sergeant

209 Police Officers, Watcher and Guards (Except

Crossing and Bridge).

Police Officer, Patrolman, Watchman, Guard.

210 Inspectors (Except Maintenance of Way &

Equipment), Other Investigators, Examiners,

Instructors, and Other Agents (Except Station

Agents).

Rules Examiner, Supervisor Rules, Safety Supervisor, Safety

Inspector, Fire Marshall, Fire Chief, Instructor, Supervisor

Procedures, Supervisor Yard Procedures, Real Estate Agent,

Real Estate Supervisor, Tax Agent.

211 Buyers, and Sales Agents Buyer, Asst. Buyer, Sales Agent, Asst. Sales Agent.

212 Clerical Technicians and Clerical Specialists Lead Clerk, Staff Asst., (clerical, Statistician, Cashier, Teller,

Asst. Statistician, Rate Clerk, Pricing Clerk, Computer

Technician.

213 Office Machine and Data Equipment Operators Machine Operator, Clerk, Computer Operator, Keypunch

Operator, Office Machine Technician.

214 Secretaries, Stenographers, and Typists. Secretary, Stenographer, Typists, Clerk Typists, Steno-clerk.

215 General and Other Clerks (excluding yard clerk

and crew dispatcher)

File Clerk, General Clerk, Bookkeeper, Ticket Clerk, Records

Clerk, Trace Clerk, Assignment Clerk, Personnel Clerk, M O W

Clerks, M of W Clerks.

216 Telephone & Switchboard Operators Switchboard Operator, Chief Operator.

217 Building & Office Attendants Elevator Operator, Elevator Starter, Janitor, Cleaner, Porter.

218 Messengers & Office Persons Messenger, Office Person.

219 Motor Vehicle Operators Truck Driver, Bus Driver, Driver, Chauffeur.
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 3 Employee Job Codes

200 Professional and Administrative (other) Professional and Administrative not listed above.

MAINTENANCE OF WAY AND STRUCTURES

301 Supervisors, Maintenance of Way, Structures,

Communication & Signals

Roadmaster, Division Roadmaster, Supervisor Track, Supervisor

Bridge and Buildings, Supervisor Communications and Signals,

Asst. Supervisor, General Foreman (MW&S), Asst., General

Foreman (MW&S), Master Carpenter.

302 Maintenance of Way, Structures, Communication

and Signals, and Scale Inspectors

Chief Bridge & Building Inspector, Chief Scale Inspector, Bridge

& Building Inspector, Roadway Equipment Inspector, Track &

Roadway Inspector, Instrument Man, Roadman, Chairman,

Inspector Communications & Signals, Signal Inspector.

303 Bridge and Building Gang Foreman Gang Foreman, Lead Workman.

304 Bridge and Building Carpenters Carpenter.

305 Bridge and Building Ironworkers Ironworker.

306 Bridge and Building Painters Painter, Sign Painter.

307 Masons, Bricklayers, Plasterers, and Plumbers Mason, Bricklayer, Plasterer, Plumber, Operator, Grinder,

Welder (M of W).

308 Bridge and Building Helpers and Apprentices Carpenter Helper, Ironworker Helper, Mason Helper, Plumber

Helper, Painter Helper, Apprentice Carpenter, Apprentice

Ironworker, Apprentice Mason, Plumber Apprentice, Apprentice

Painter, Welder Helper.

309 Bridge and Building Gang and Bridge and

Building Dept. Laborers

Bridge and Building Laborer.

310 Track Gang Foreman (Extra Gang work train

laborers)

Gang Foreman, Asst. Foreman.

311 Gang or Section Foreman Gang Foreman, Asst. Foreman, Section Foreman.

312 Extra Gang Laborers Trackman, Fence Laborer

313 Section Laborers Track, Track and Roadway Section Laborer.

314 Machine Operators Craneman, Portable Equipment Engineer, Portable Equipment

Operator, Helper.

315 Gang Foreman, Communications Gang Foreman, Asst. Gang Foreman, Lead Signal Maintainer.
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 4 Employee Job Codes

316 Signalmen & Signal Maintainers Signalman, Signal Maintainer.

317 Linemen, Groundmen, and Communications

Craftsman

Electrical Worker (Lineman), Electrical Worker (Groundman

Communications Maintainer).

318 Assistant Signalmen and Assistant Signal Maintainers

Asst.

Signal

man,

Asst.

Signal

Maint

ainer.

319 Signal Helpers and Signal Maintainer Helpers

Signal

man

Helpe

r,

Signal

Maint

ainer

Helpe

r.

320 Camp Car Cooks

Cam

p Car

Cook

,

Cam

p Car

Helpe

rs.

300 Maintenance of Way and Structures Maintenance of Way and Structures not listed above.

MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT AND STORES

401 Supervisors and General Foremen, 

Maintenance of Equipment

General Foreman Shop, General Foreman Engine house, General

Foreman Diesel Terminal, Asst. General Foreman (M of E).

402 Supervisors and General Foremen, Materials and

Stores

Supervisor Materials, Asst. Supervisor, Materials, General

Foreman Stores, General Foreman Reclamation Plant, Asst.

General Foreman.

403 Equipment, Shop, Electrical Inspectors Chief Electrical Inspector, Chip Shop & Equipment Inspector,
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 5 Employee Job Codes

Electrical Inspector, Inspector Diesel Locomotive, Fuel

Inspector.

404 Materials and Supplies Inspectors Materials & Supplies Inspector, Chief Materials & Supplies

Inspector, Timber Inspector, Tie Inspector.

405 Storekeeper Storekeeper, Assistant, Storekeeper, Materials Clerk, Store

Clerk.

406 Gang Foremen, Maintenance of Equipment Gang Foreman.

407 Blacksmith Blacksmith.

408 Boilermakers Boilermaker.

409 Carmen (Freight) Car Repairman, Car Inspector, Carman, Painter.

410 Carmen (Other) Carman.

411 Electrical Workers (A) Electrician, Electrical Worker.

412 Electrical Workers (B) Crane Operator, Lead Dispatcher, Power Station Operator,

Asst. Power Director.

413 Electrical Workers (C) Coal and Ore Elevator Operator (electrical), Grain Elevator

Operator (electrical).

414 Machinists Machinist.

415 Sheet Metal Workers Sheet Metal Worker.

416 Skilled Trades, Helpers, Maintenance of

Equipment and Stores

Helper.

417 Apprentices, Maintenance of Equipment and

Stores

Apprentice, Helper Apprentice.

418 Coach Cleaners Coach Cleaner.

419 Laborers: Shops, Engine houses, and Power

Plants

Laborer.

420 Gang Foreman, Materials and Stores Gang Foreman

421 Equipment Operators and General Laborers,

Materials and Stores

Laborer, Materials Handler, Equipment Operators, Machine

Operators.

422 Stationary Engineers Chief Engineer (Steam Plant), Engineer, Stationary Engineer.

423 Stationary Fireman Stationary Fireman, Power Equipment Operator, Helper, Oiler.
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 6 Employee Job Codes

400 Maintenance of Equipment and Stores (other) Maintenance of Equipment and Stores not listed above.

TRANSPORTATION, OTHER THAN TRAIN AND ENGINE

501 Transportation Supervisor and Chief Train

Dispatcher

Chief Train Dispatcher, Supervisor Train Operations,

Transportation Supervisor, Supervisor Train Operations,

Supervisor Locomotive & Car Distribution, Asst. Chief Train

Dispatcher.

502 Train Dispatchers Train Dispatcher.

503 Station, Freight and Passenger Agents Supervising Station Agent, Asst. Supervising Station Agent,

Station Agent, Freight Agent, Passenger Agent, Ticket Agent,

Traveling Agent, Agent Operators.

504 Chief Operators and Wire Chiefs Supervising Operator, Chief Operator, Asst. Supervising

Operator, Wire Chief.

505 Clerk Operators, Towermen, Train Directors Clerk Operator, Block Operator, Operator, Towerman, Train

Directors.

506 Station Masters and Asst., Supervising Baggage

Agents, Baggage Agents and Asst.

Station Master, Asst. Station Master, Supervising Baggage

Agent, Baggage Agent, Asst. Baggage Agent, Parcel Room

Agent.

507 Baggage, Parcel Room and Station Attendants Baggage Attendant, Parcel Room Attendant, Station Attendant,

Gateman, Announcer, Station Usher, Red Cap, Information

Bureau Attendant.

508 General and Assistant General Foremen, Stations,

Warehouses, Grain Elevators, and Docks

General Foreman, Asst. General Foreman.

509 Gang Foremen, Stations, Warehouses, Grain

Elevators and Docks

Gang Foreman.

510 Grain Elevator and Dock Laborers

Labo

rer

511

Statio

n and

Ware

house

Labo

rers

Loader, Sealer 512
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 7 Employee Job Codes

Truck

ers

(Stati

on,

Ware

house

&

Platfo

rms).

Trucker 513

Food

and

Lodgi

ng

Mana

ger,

Super

visors

Manager Lodging House, Restaurant Manager,

Dining Car Supervisor, Dining Car Steward.

514

Trans

portat

ion

and

Dinin

g

Servi

ce

Inspe

ctors

Instructor Chef, Restaurant Inspectors, Freight

Service Inspector, Baggage Inspector.

515

Waite

rs

and

Kitch

en

Helpe

rs

(Rest

auran

t and

Dinin

g

Car)

Waiter-in-charge, Waiter. 516

Chefs

and

Cook

s

Chef, Cook. 517
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 8 Employee Job Codes

(Rest

auran

t and

Dinin

g

Car)

Marin

e

Offic

ers

and

Work

ers

and

Shore

Work

ers

Captain, Engineer, Mate, Deckhand, Oiler

Purser, Boat Master, Fireman, Wharf Master,

Able Seaman, Baggageman, Boat Dispatcher.

518

Train

Atten

dants

Porter, Buffet Lounge Attendant, Stewardess. 519

Bridg

e

Oper

ators

and

Helpe

rs

Bridge Operator. 520

Bridg

e and

Cross

ing

Flag

man

&

Gate

man

Bridge Flagman, Crossing Gateman. 521

Yard

Clerk

s

Yard Clerk, Yard Clerk Caller, Yard Demurrage

Clerk, Yard Dispatcher Clerk, Piggyback Clerk.

522

Crew

Dispa

tchers

Crew Dispatcher, Crew Caller. 523
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 9 Employee Job Codes

Yard

maste

r &

Asst.

Yard

maste

rs

Yardmaster, Asst. Yardmaster.

500 Transportation, Other Than Train and Engine

(others)

Transportation, Other Than Train and Engine not listed above.

TRANSPORTATION, TRAIN AND ENGINE

601 Switchtenders Switchtender.

602 Car Retarder Operators and Ground Service

Employees

Car Retarder Operator, Skatesman, Herder, Yard Pilot.

603 Outside Hostlers Outside Hostler.

604 Outside Hostler Helpers Outside Hostler Helper.

605 Inside Hostler Inside Hostler.

606 Road Passenger Conductors Passenger Conductor.

607 Asst. Road Passenger Conductors and Ticket

Collectors

Asst. Passenger Conductor, Ticket Collector.

608 Road Freight Conductors (Through Freight). Freight Conductor, Work Train Conductor, (paid through rate).

609 Road Freight Conductors (Local and Way

Freight)

Freight Conductor, Work Train Conductor, (paid local rate).

610 Lead Passenger Baggageperson Baggageperson.

611 Lead Passenger Brakemen and Flagmen Passenger Brakeman, Passenger Flagmen.

612 Road Freight Brakemen and Flagmen (Through

Freight)

Freight Brakeman, Freight Flagman, Work Train Brakeman (paid

through rate).

613 Road Freight Brakemen and Flagmen (Local and

Way Freight)

Freight Brakeman, Freight Flagman, Work Train Brakeman,

(paid local rate).

614 Yard Conductors and Yard Foremen Yard Conductor, Yard Foreman.

615 Yard Brakemen and Yard Helpers Yard Brakeman, Yard Helper.
 

APPENDIX D - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix D - 10 Employee Job Codes

616 Road Passenger Engineers and Motormen Passenger Engineer, Motorman Operator.

617 Road Freight Engineers (Through Freight). Freight Engineer, Work Train Engineer (paid through rate).

618 Road Freight Engineers (Local and Way Freight). Freight Engineer, Work Train Engineer (paid local rate).

619 Yard Engineers Yard Engineer.

620 Road Passenger Firemen and Helpers Passenger Fireman.

621 Road Freight Firemen and Helpers, (Through

Freight)

Freight Fireman.

622 Road Freight Fireman and Helpers, (Local and

Way Freight).

Freight Fireman.

623 Yard Firemen and Helpers Yard Fireman.

600 Transportation, Train and Engine (other) Transportation, Train and Engine not listed above. 
Revised: 11/15/96

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports Effective: 01/01/97

 

 

Appendix E - 1 Injury and Illness Codes

APPENDIX E

Injury and Illness Codes

INJURIES

Use the codes on this page to identify the nature and body part affected for both fatal and nonfatal

injuries. For example, a broken collarbone would be recorded as "706E". When an individual

has sustained multiple injuries, the most severe of these is to be identified. If the injuries are of

equal severity, for example, cuts or abrasions on arms and legs, then the multiple location code "8"

may be used.

NATURE OF INJURY

10 Bruise or contusion 91 Foreign object in eye

20 Sprain or strain 92 Hernia

30 Cut/laceration or 93 Concussion

 abrasion 94 Nervous shock (injury related)

35 Puncture wound 95 Internal injury

40 Electrical shock 96 Loss of eye 

 or burn 97 Reaction from one-time external

50 Other burns exposure to chemicals

60 Dislocation 98 One-time exposure to loud noise,

70 Fracture e.g., an explosion

75 Dental related 9A One-time exposure to fumes that 

80 Amputation does not exceed a single duty

90 FATALLY INJURED tour and without long term or

 permanent consequences

99 All other injuries

LOCATION OF INJURY CODES

1 Arm or hand: 5 Head or face:

 A - upper arm A - eye

 B - elbow B - ear

 C - lower arm C - nose

 D - wrist D - mouth/teeth

 E - hand (general) E - skull/scalp

 F - thumb/fingers F - neck/throat
 

APPENDIX E - Continued

Revised: 11/15/96

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports Effective: 01/01/97

 

 

Appendix E - 2 Injury and Illness Codes

3 Leg or foot: 6 Torso:

 A - upper leg A - spine/spinal cord

 B - knee B - upper back (muscular)

 C - lower leg C - lower back (muscular)

 D - ankle D - shoulder

 E - heel E - collar bone

 F - toes F - ribs/sternum

 G - foot (general) G - internal injuries

 H - external injuries - other

 I - hips/buttocks

 J - genitalia

8 Injuries to various body 9 Other body parts

 parts of relatively 

 equal severity

OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESS CODES

 Occupational Skin Diseases or Disorders

1101 Dermatitis (inflammation of the skin)

1102 Eczema - inflammation of the skin characterized by the formation of vesicles (blisters) which may be either acute or

chronic

1103 Rash caused by primary irritants and sensitizers or poisonous plants

1104 Oil acne - sometimes known as oil folliculitis, it is an inflammation of the hair follicles caused by depositing of oil into

them, resulting in inflammation, swelling, redness and pus formation

1105 Chrome ulcers - pitted sores of the skin that are slow or resistant to healing, caused by exposure to chromium salts

1107 Other occupational skin diseases or disorders

1109 DEATH resulting from occupational skin diseases or disorders

 Dust Diseases of the Lungs (Pneumoconioses)

1111 Silicosis - caused by the depositing of dust containing free silica into the lung

1112 Asbestosis - caused by the presence of asbestos in the lung

1113 Coal worker's pneumoconiosis (formerly known as black lung) - caused by the depositing of coal dust in the lung

1114 Byssinosis (formerly known as brown lung) - caused by the depositing of cotton dust in the lung
 

APPENDIX E - Continued

Revised: 11/15/96

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports Effective: 01/01/97

 

 

Appendix E - 3 Injury and Illness Codes

1115 Pneumoconioses, other. Other lung diseases characterized by the presence of dust in the lungs and the lungs

reaction to that dust.

1119 DEATH resulting from dust diseases of the lungs

 Respiratory Conditions Due to Toxic Agents

1121 Pneumonitis - inflammation of the lungs

1122 Pharyngitis - inflammation of the throat

1123 Rhinitis - inflammation of the nose

1124 Acute congestion due to chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes

1125 Farmers lung

1126 Other respiratory conditions due to toxic agents

1129 DEATH resulting from respiratory conditions due to toxic agents

 Poisoning (Systemic Effects of Toxic Materials)

1131 Poisoning by lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, or other metals

1132 Poisoning by carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide or other gases

1133 Poisoning by benzol, carbon tetrachloride, or other organic solvents

1134 Poisoning by insecticide sprays such as parathion, lead arsenate

1135 Poisoning by chemicals such as formaldehyde, plastics and resins

1136 Other poisoning due to the systemic effects of toxic materials

1139 DEATH resulting from poisoning

 Disorders Due to Physical Agents (Other than Toxic Materials)

1141 Heat stroke/sun stroke - serious heat-related condition in which the patient often stops sweating and experiences a

marked rise in core temperature

1142 Effects of ionizing radiation - refers to the various effects of ionizing radiation, e.g. gamma rays or x-rays

1143 Effects of non-ionizing radiation - refers to the effects of electro-magnetic radiation, e.g., radio waves, microwaves,

welding flash, ultraviolet rays of the sun, etc.
 

APPENDIX E - Continued

Revised: 11/15/96

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports Effective: 01/01/97

 

 

Appendix E - 4 Injury and Illness Codes

1144 Heat exhaustion - heat-related condition of moderate degree which, if not treated, may lead to heat stroke.

1145 Freezing/frostbite - freezing of tissue with disruption of the blood supply

1146 Other disorders due to physical agents other than toxic materials

1149 DEATH resulting from physical agents (other than toxic materials)

 Disorders Due to Repeated Trauma

1151 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise induced hearing loss - a Standard Threshold Shift (STS). An STS is a change in hearing threshold relative to

a baseline audiogram that averages 10 dB or more at 2000, 3000, and 4000 hertz in either ear. 

Documentation of a 10 dB shift is not, of and by itself, reportable. There must be a determination by a physician (or

a railroad may choose to delegate decision authority to another qualified health care professional) that environmental

factors at work were a significant cause of the STS. 

However, if an employee has an overall shift of 25 dB or more above the original baseline audiogram, then an

evaluation must be made to determine to what extent it resulted from exposure at work. Any conclusion that the

shift was not significantly caused by factors at work must be supported by an evaluation/diagnosis of either a QHCP

or a physician.

Note: The change in hearing may be adjusted for aging. A case does not need to be reported if

a retest conducted within 30 days does not confirm the original STS. Once a reportable STS

has occurred, the current baseline should be adjusted to reflect this test result. A subsequent

test revealing an additional STS from this baseline value is a new case. 

Additional information concerning occupational noise exposure, monitoring, age corrections,

etc., can be found in 29 CFR 1910: Occupational Noise Exposure; Hearing Conservation

Amendment; Final Rule, as published in the Federal Register, Vol. 48, No. 46, on March 8,

1983.

1152 Synovitis - inflammation of the membrane around a joint or other musculoskeletal element

1153 Tenosynovitis - inflammation of the tendon (fibrous tissue that connects the muscle to a bone) or the membrane that

surrounds it

1154 Bursitis - inflammation of the bursa (a membranous pouch that is used for cushioning the joints

1155 Raynaud's phenomena - a symptom complex usually related to poor circulation of an extremity characterized by loss

of feeling, blanching (whitening) and coolness of the part, typically a finger, toe, hand, or foot

1156 Carpal tunnel syndrome

1157 Other conditions associated with repeated motion, vibration, pressure, or repeated trauma. Note: Back cases

are always considered to be injuries and are to be recorded as such.
 

APPENDIX E - Continued

Revised: 11/15/96

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports Effective: 01/01/97

 

 

Appendix E - 5 Injury and Illness Codes

1159 DEATH resulting from repeated trauma

 Other Occupational Illnesses Not Listed above

1191 Anthrax - bacterial disease, typically spread from infected animals to humans

1192 Brucellosis - an infectious bacterial disease spread by contact with the tissues, blood, urine or fetuses of

contaminated animals

1193 Infectious hepatitis (also known as hepatitis A) - infection of the liver, characterized by fever, abdominal pain, loss

of appetite and in severe cases, jaundice

1194 Malignant tumors - tumors which spread beyond their original boundaries to distant organs and will generally result

in death if not treated

1195 Benign tumors - tumors that do not spread beyond the original tumor mass except through local growth and do not

pose the same risk of distant spread, disease, and death as seen in malignant tumors

1196 Stress related (determined by a qualified health care professional

1197 Histoplasmosis/Coccidiomycosis - fungal infectious diseases

119E Emotional Trauma/nervous shock

1198 All other occupational illnesses other than those classified above

1199 DEATH resulting from other occupational illnesses
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 1 Circumstance Codes

APPENDIX F

Circumstance Codes

1. Physical Act

2. Location - Parts I, II, and III

3. Event

4. Tools, Machinery, Appliances, Structures, Surfaces (etc.)

5. Probable Reason for Injury/Illness

A complete record of all of factors associated with an injury or illness would be beneficial in

prevention analysis. However, it is not practical, even if it were possible, to develop forms and

codes that would capture every detail that may be associated with each incident. When selecting

circumstance codes, use a combination that best identifies the key factors without duplicating

information identified by another code. The narrative portion of the report is to be used to provide

additional information concerning those items that cannot be adequately described on the coded

portions of the form. 
 

APPENDIX F - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 2 Circumstance Codes

PHYSICAL ACT CIRCUMSTANCE CODES

(What was the person doing when hurt?)

Select one of these codes and enter in Form F6180.55a, 5j. Physical Act

01 - Adjusting coupler

02 - Adjusting drawbar

03 - Adjusting, other

04 - Applying rail anchor/fastener

05 - Bending, stooping

06 - Carrying

07 - Chaining, cabling car or locomotive

08 - Cleaning

09 - Climbing over/on

10 - Closing

11 - Coupling electric cables

12 - Coupling steam hose

13 - Coupling air hose

14 - Crossing over

15 - Crossing or crawling under

16 - Crossing between

17 - Cutting rail

18 - Cutting vegetation

19 - Cutting, other

20 - Digging, excavating

21 - Driving (motor vehicle, forklift, etc.)

22 - Flagging

23 - Fueling

24 - Getting on

25 - Getting off

26 - Grinding

27 - Handling baggage

28 - Handling car parts

29 - Handling material, general

30 - Handling locomotive parts

31 - Handling wheels/trucks

32 - Handling, other

33 - Handling other track material/supplies

34 - Handling poles

35 - Handling tie plates

36 - Handling ties

37 - Handling rail

38 - Inspecting

39 - Installing

40 - Jumping from

41 - Jumping onto

42 - Laying

43 - Lifting other material

44 - Lifting equipment (tools, parts, etc.)

45 - Lining switches

46 - Lining, other

47 - Loading/unloading

48 - Maintaining

49 - Opening

50 - Opening/closing angle cock

51 - Operating

52 - Pulling pin lifter/operating uncoupling

 lever

53 - Pulling

54 - Pushing

55 - Reaching

56 - Removing rail anchors/fasteners

57 - Repairing

58 - Riding

59 - Running

60 - Sitting

61 - Spiking (installation/removal)

62 - Standing

63 - Stepping up

64 - Stepping down

65 - Stepping over

66 - Uncoupling air hose

67 - Uncoupling steam hose

68 - Uncoupling electric cables

69 - Using hand signals

70 - Using hand tool

71 - Using, other

72 - Walking

73 - Welding (includes field welding)

99 - Other (Narrative must be provided)
 

APPENDIX F - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 3 Circumstance Codes

LOCATION CIRCUMSTANCE CODES

Select one code from each part and enter in Form F6180.55a, 5k. Location. Enter Part I followed by

Part II, and then Part III.

Part I of Code

 (Where was the person?)

Did A/I occur on or near rail right of way? If so, select code that best describes the type of track.

A - Main/branch

B - Yard 

C - Siding

D - Industry

E - Repair

Y - Other (explain in narrative)

If A/I did not occur on or near rail right of way, select code that best describes the location of the

A/I:

G - Break/lunch room

H - Freight terminal

J - Highway/roadway

K - Loading dock

L - Lodging facility

M - Office environment

N - Parking lot

P - Passenger terminal

Q - Repair shop

R - Storage facility

S - Sidewalk/walkway

T - Other, (off site location)

Z - Other location (describe in narrative)

Part II of Code

If A/I involved on-track rail equipment, select code that best describes type of on-track equipment

involved.

01 - Camp car - moving

02 - Camp car - standing

03 - Freight train - moving

04 - Freight train - standing

05 - Freight car(s) - standing

06 - Freight car(s) - moving

07 - Hy-rail/other inspection vehicle - moving

08 - Hy-rail/other inspection vehicle - standing

09 - Locomotive(s) - standing

10 - Locomotive(s) - moving

11 - Maintenance of way equipment - standing

12 - Maintenance of way equipment - moving

13 - Passenger train - standing

14 - Passenger train - moving

15 - Passenger car(s) - moving

16 - Passenger car(s) - standing

49 - Other on-track equipment - moving

 (describe in narrative)

50 - Other on-track equipment - standing

 (describe in narrative)

Other self-propelled equipment, or equipment used in

transportation

51 - Automobile

52 - Crane, hoists, etc.

53 - Excavating machinery

54 - Grading/surfacing machinery

55 - Loaders, forklifts, etc

56 - Off road vehicle - industrial

57 - Off road vehicle - recreational

58 - Other construction type equipment

59 - Taxi/commercial vehicle

60 - Truck

61 - Van (utility)

62 - Van (passenger)

63 - Water vehicle, ship, boat, barge, etc.

97 - Other operated equipment (explain in narrative)

98 - Other equipment (explain in narrative)

99 - The A/I was not associated with either on-track

 equipment or any of the vehicle types listed above.
 

APPENDIX F - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 4 Circumstance Codes
 

APPENDIX F - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 5 Circumstance Codes

Part III of Code

Select the code that best identifies the location of the person whose injury/illness is being reported.

A1 - Alongside of on-track equipment - on ground

A2 - At work station

A3 - Beside track

A4 - Between tracks

A5 - Between cars/locomotives

A6 - In cab or on walkways of locomotive

A7 - In car

A8 - In elevator

A9 - In/operating vehicle

B1 - In tower

B2 - In tunnel

B3 - On bridge/trestle

B4 - On highway-rail crossing

B5 - On other rail crossing

B6 - On side of car

B7 - On track

B8 - On end of car

B9 - On pole/signal mast

C1 - On scaffold

C2 - On platform

C3 - On escalator

C4 - On stairs

C5 - On ladder

C6 - Other location on locomotive

C7 - Under car

C8 - Under locomotive

X9 - Other location (describe in narrative)
 

APPENDIX F - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 6 Circumstance Codes

EVENT CIRCUMSTANCE CODES

Select one of these codes and enter in Form F6180.55a, 5l. Event

01 - Aggravated pre-existing condition 

02 - Apprehending/removing from property

03 - Assaulted by other

04 - Assaulted by coworker

05 - Bitten/stung by bee, spider, other insect

06 - Bitten by animal

07 - Bodily function/sudden movement, e.g., sneezing,

 twisting

08 - Caught in or compressed by hand tools

09 - Caught in or compressed by other machinery

10 - Caught in or crushed by materials

11 - Caught in or crushed in excavation, land slide,

 cave-in, etc.

12 - Caught in or compressed by powered hand tools

13 - Cave in, slide, etc.

14 - Climatic conditions, other (e.g., high winds)

15 - Climatic condition, exposure to environmental

 heat

16 - Climatic condition, exposure to environmental

 cold

17 - Collision - between on track equipment

18 - Collision/impact - auto, truck, bus, van, etc.

19 - Committing vandalism/theft

20 - Defective/malfunctioning equipment

21 - Derailment

22 - Electrical shock while operating welding

 equipment

23 - Electrical shock due to contact with 3rd rail,

 catenary, pantograph

24 - Electrical shock, other (explain in narrative)

25 - Electrical shock from hand tool

26 - Exposure to fumes - inhalation 

27 - Exposure to chemicals - external

28 - Exposure to poisonous plants

29 - Exposure to noise over time

30 - Exposure to noise - single incident

31 - Exposure to welding light

32 - Highway-rail collision/impact

33 - Horseplay, practical joke, etc.

34 - Lost balance

35 - Missed handhold, grabiron, step, etc.

36 - Needle puncture/prick/stick

37 - Other impacts - on track equipment

38 - Overexertion 

39 - Pushed/shoved into/against

40 - Pushed/shoved onto

41 - Pushed/shoved from

42 - Ran into on-track equipment

43 - Ran into object/equipment

44 - Repetitive motion - work processes

45 - Repetitive motion - typing, keyboard, etc.

46 - Repetitive motion - tools

47 - Repetitive motion - other (describe in narrative)

48 - Rubbed, abraded, etc.

49 - Shot

50 - Slack action, draft, compressive buff/coupling

51 - Slipped, fell, stumbled, etc. due to irregular

 surface, e.g., depression, slope, etc.

52 - Slipped, fell, stumbled, etc. due to climatic

 condition (rain, snow, ice, etc.)

53 - Slipped, fell, stumbled, etc. on oil, grease, 

 other slippery substance

54 - Slipped, fell, stumbled, etc. due to object, e.g.,

 ballast, spike, material, etc.

55 - Stabbing, knifing, etc.

56 - Stepped on object

57 - Struck by thrown or propelled object

58 - Struck by object

59 - Struck by on-track equipment

60 - Struck by falling object

61 - Struck against object

62 - Sudden release of air

63 - Sudden/unexpected movement of material

64 - Sudden/unexpected movement of on-track

 equipment

65 - Sudden/unexpected movement of vehicle

66 - Sustained viewing

67 - Thrill seeking

99 - Other (describe in narrative)
 

APPENDIX F - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 7 Circumstance Codes

TOOLS, MACHINERY, APPLIANCES, STRUCTURES, SURFACES (etc.)

CIRCUMSTANCE CODES

Select one of these codes and enter in Form F6180.55a, 5m. Result

01 - Baggage

02 - Ballast

03 - Boring tools

04 - Bridge/trestle

05 - Caboose

06 - Coupler

07 - Cutting tools

08 - Derail

09 - Door

10 - End of train device

11 - Floor

12 - Fusees/torpedoes

13 - Grabiron

14 - Ground

15 - Hand tools, digging, e.g., shovels, picks, etc.

16 - Hand tools, gripping, e.g., pliers, tongs, clamps

17 - Hand tools, striking & nailing, e.g., hammers,

 mallets,

18 - Highway, street, road

19 - Hose

20 - Inspection Pit

21 - Jack

22 - Ladder

23 - Office equipment

24 - Power tools

25 - Pry bar

26 - Rail bike

27 - Stair

28 - Switch

29 - Tie

30 - Torch, acetylene, gas, etc.

31 - Trailer/container on flat car (TOFC, COFC)

32 - Welder - electric

33 - Window

99 - Other (describe in narrative)
 

APPENDIX F - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 8 Circumstance Codes

PROBABLE REASON FOR INJURY/ILLNESS CIRCUMSTANCE CODES

Select one of these codes and enter in Form F6180.55a, 5n. Cause

01 - Environmental

02 - Safety equipment not worn or in place

03 - Procedures for operating/using equipment not

 followed

04 - Equipment

05 - Signal

06 - Track

07 - Impairment, substance use

08 - Impairment, physical condition, e.g., fatigue

09 - Human factor

10 - Trespassing

99 - Undetermined
 

APPENDIX F - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix F - 9 Circumstance Codes

This page has been intentionally left blank. 
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix G -1 FRA Regional Offices

APPENDIX G

FRA Regional Offices and Headquarters

REGION OFFICE PHONE

 I Mark McKeon (617) 494-2302

Regional Administrator

Federal Railroad Administration

55 Broadway St., Room 1077

Cambridge, MA 02142

 II Dave Myers (610) 521-8210

Regional Administrator

Federal Railroad Administration

Scott Plaza II, Suite 550

Lester, PA 19113

 III L. Fred Dennin, Jr. (404) 562-3800

Regional Administrator

Federal Railroad Administration

100 Alabama Street, S.W.

Suite 16T20

Atlanta, GA 30303-3104

 IV Mark McKeon, Acting (312) 353-6203

Regional Administrator

Federal Railroad Administration

111 N. Canal Street, Suite 655

Chicago, IL 60606

 V John Megary (817) 284-8142

Regional Administrator

Federal Railroad Administration

8701 Bedford Euless Road, Suite 425

Hurst, TX 76053

 VI Darrell J. Tisor (816) 426-2497

Regional Administrator

Federal Railroad Administration

1100 Main St., Suite 1130

Kansas, MO 64105
 

APPENDIX G - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix G -2 FRA Regional Offices

REGION OFFICE PHONE 

 VII James T. Schultz (916) 498-6540

Regional Administrator

Federal Railroad Administration

801 I Street, Suite 466

Sacramento, CA 95814

 VIII Dick L. Clairmont (360) 696-7536

Regional Administrator

Federal Railroad Administration

703 Broadway, Suite 650

Murdock Building

Vancouver, WA 98660

FRA HEADQUARTERS

Office of Safety (RRS-22) (202) 632-3317

Federal Railroad Administration

400 Seventh St., S.W.

Washington, D.C. 20590

 STAN.ELLIS@FRA.DOT.GOV
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix H -1 Forms

APPENDIX H

Forms

Form FRA F 6180.55 - Railroad Injury and Illness Summary

Form FRA F 6180.98 - Railroad Employee Injury and/or Illness Record

Form FRA F 6180.97 - Initial Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Record

Form FRA F 6180.55a - Railroad Injury and Illness Summary (Continuation

Sheet)

Form FRA F 6180.54 - Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Report

Form FRA F 6180.81 - Employee Human Factor Attachment

Form FRA F 6180.78 - Notice to Railroad Employee Involved in Rail Equipment

Accident/Incident Attributed to Employee Human Factor

Employee Statement Supplementing

Railroad Accident Report

Form FRA F 6180.57 - Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Accident/Incident Report

Form FRA F 6180.56 - Annual Railroad Report of Employee Hours and

Casualties by State
Nontrespassers/off railroad property

Volunteer - other

15. 16. 17.

12. 13. 14.

9. Telephone (Area Code) (Number)

7. Official Title

3. Report Month & Year 4. State Alphabetic Code 5. County

This report is required by law (49 USC 20901). Failure to report can result in the imposition of civil penalties.

Remarks Section. Please describe operational, environmental, or other circumstances that account for unusual fluctuations in train miles operated, employee hours, or 

passenger counts.

20.

18. 19.

6180.81

6180.57

6180.56

6180.55a

6180.54

FRA Form Number Number Attached

Grand total

Worker on duty - volunteer

Contractor - other

Worker on duty - contractor

Trespassers

Nontrespassers/on railroad property

Passengers on trains

Employees not on duty

Worker on duty - employee

Fatal Nonfatal

8. Address

6. Name of Reporting Officer

Type of Person

REPORTED CASUALTIES NUMBER OF FRA FORMS ATTACHED

Railroad Worker Hours Passenger Miles Operated Number of Passengers Transported

Yard Switching Train Miles Other Train Miles

1. Name of Reporting Railroad 2. Alphabetic Code

OMB Approval No.: 2130-0500

RAILROAD INJURY AND ILLNESS SUMMARY

FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Freight Train Miles Passenger Train Miles

OPERATIONAL DATA & ACCIDENT/INCIDENT COUNTS FOR REPORT MONTH

11.

(Notary Public) (Signature of affiant)

pression seal) _______________________________________ _________________________________________________________

[L.S]

(Use an imSubscribed and sworn to before me, a notary public in and for the State and County aforesaid, this _________ day of 

 ________________________ , 19 ________ .

over the record of reportable incidents arising from the operation of the said railroad, and that I have caused to be compiled from the said record and 

to be carefully examined the annexed report in attached hardcopy forms or magnetic media or electronic submission of such incidents occurring 

during the month named at the head of this sheet; and that the said report is true and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

FORM FRA F 6180.55

(Title of Office held by affiant)

am ___________________________________ , of the railroad aforesaid and as such officer of the said railroad it is my duty to have supervision 

(Name of Affiant)

I, _____________________________________________________________________ , being first duly sworn, do say upon my oath that I

10.
FORM FRA F 6180.98

OCCURRED:

EXPOSURE

NORMALLY REPORTS:

PM

AM

1. Railroad 2. Case/Incident Number

events leading up to it, and the tools, machinery, processes, material, environmental conditions, etc., involved.

NOTIFICATION:

COMPANY

INCIDENT/

ACCIDENT/

EMPLOYEE

FACILITY WHERE

ADDRESS:

HOME

25. Is this on your premises?

33. Describe the general activity this person was engaged in prior to injury/illness.

34. Describe all factors associated with this case that are pertinent to an understanding of how it occurred. Include a discussion of the sequence of

32. Person Notified

PM

AM

Company Personnel of Condition 31. Time that Employee Notified

Yes No Yes No

28. Time of Occurrence 29. Was person on duty?

PM

27. Time Shift Began AM

Company Personnel of Condition 30. Date that Employee Notified

26. Date of Occurrence

21. City 22. County 23. State 24. ZIP

20. Specific Site

ACTIVITY/INCIDENT/EXPOSURE DESCRIPTION

18. Job Title 19. Department Assigned To

14. Street Address 15. City 16. State 17. ZIP

13. Name of Facility

LOCATION WHERE

8. Street Address (include Apt. No.) 9. City 10. State 11. ZIP

OMB Approval No.: 2130-0500

RAILROAD EMPLOYEE INJURY AND/OR ILLNESS RECORD

FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

ESTABLISHMENT/

(include area code)

12. Home Telephone No.

3. Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial 4. Date of Birth 5. Sex (M/F) 6. Social Security Number 7. Date Hired

EMPLOYEE INFORMATION
cuts, abrasions, etc.

inpatient.

of last occurrence.

does not meet the reporting criteria, you must give a brief explanation below of the basis for this decision. Was the case reported? Yes No

Occupational illness. Date of initial diagnosis: 

who provided the treatment. "First Aid" treatment is limited to very simple procedures, e.g., application of a bandaid on minor scratches,

Medical treatment. This includes any medical care or treatment beyond "first aid" that is given, or should have been given, regardless of 

Instructions to obtain prescription medication, or receipt of prescription medication.

Transfer to another job or termination of employment.

Loss of consciousness.

Multiple treatments or therapy sessions.

Hospitalization for treatment as an 

inpatient Restriction of work. Total days of restricted activity: _________ as of: _______________

Missed a day of work or next shift. Actual days absent from work: _________ as of: _______________

Death. Date of: _______________

38. Check any of the following consequences resulting from this injury/condition:

39. If any of the above consequences occurred, the injury/condition is almost always reportable to FRA on Form FRA F 6180.55a. If you believe this case

40. Has this employee been provided an opportunity to review his or her file? Yes No

41. Preparer's Name 42. Preparer's Title 43. Telephone Number 44. Date

37. Describe all procedures, medications, therapy, etc., used/recommended for the treatment of condition:

36. Identify all persons and organizations used to evaluate and/or treat condition. (Include facility, provider, and address)

35. Describe in detail the injury/condition that this person sustained. Include a discussion of the body parts affected. If this is a recurrence, list date

INJURY/CONDITION INFORMATION
Trespassers Nontrespassers/off railroad property

FORM FRA F 6180.97

(to nearest tenth)

Injured Killed Injured Killed

18. Train/Job Number

Estimated

17. Speed Actual

32. Name of Railroad Official 33. Signature 34. Telephone Number 35. Date

31. Was this accident/incident reported to the FRA?

30. Narrative Description (Be specific, and continue on separate sheet if necessary)

Volunteer - other

Worker on duty - volunteer

Contractor - other

Worker on duty - contractor

Nontrespassers/on railroad property

Passengers on trains

Employees not on duty

Worker on duty - employee

24. Total Cars Derailed

Consist

22. Total Locomotives Derailed 23. Total of Cars in Equipment

Train

21. Total Locomotive Units in

19. Type of Equipment (Freight, Passenger, Yard/Switching, etc.) 20. Type of Track (Main, Yard, Siding, Industry)

15. Milepost 16. Specific Site

12. Division 13. Nearest City/Town 14. State

27. Primary Cause 28. Contributing Cause

(in dollars) 26. Track, Signal, Way & Structure Damage (in dollars)

Yes No

29. Persons Injured and Killed

25. Equipment Damage

10. Number of Hazmat Cars Damaged or Derailed 11. Number of Hazmat Cars Releasing Product

9. Type of Accident/Incident (Derailment, Collision, Obstruction, Other)

8. Incident Number

OMB Approval No.: 2130-0500

INITIAL RAIL EQUIPMENT ACCIDENT/INCIDENT RECORD

FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

7. Railroad Responsible for Track Maintenance

5. Other Railroad 6. Incident Number

3. Name of Railroad 4. Incident Number

PM

1. Date of Accident/Incident (YY/MM/DD) 2. Time of Accident/Incident AM
Alcohol Test

Drug/

5h.

Transfer? (y/n)

Hazmat Permanent

Restricted

Days

From Work

Act Days Away

Code

Illness

Job Code

of Day Person/

Narrative (Up to 250 Characters)

Injury Physical Location Event Result Cause Number of Number of Exposure to Termination or

Accident/Injury Number Day Time County State Type Age

5i.

5s.

5c.

5j. 5k. 5l. 5m. 5n. 5o. 5p. 5q. 5r.

5a. 5b. 5d. 5e. 5f. 5g.

Alcohol Test

Drug/

5h.

Transfer? (y/n)

Hazmat Permanent

Restricted

Days

From Work

Act Days Away

Code

Illness

Job Code

of Day Person/

Narrative (Up to 250 Characters)

Injury Physical Location Event Result Cause Number of Number of Exposure to Termination or

Accident/Injury Number Day Time County State Type Age

5i.

5s.

5c.

5j. 5k. 5l. 5m. 5n. 5o. 5p. 5q. 5r.

5a. 5b. 5d. 5e. 5f. 5g.

Alcohol Test

Drug/

5h.

Transfer? (y/n)

Hazmat Permanent

Restricted

Days

From Work

Act Days Away

Code

Illness

Job Code

of Day Person/

Narrative (Up to 250 Characters)

Injury Physical Location Event Result Cause Number of Number of Exposure to Termination or

Accident/Injury Number Day Time County State Type Age

5i.

5s.

5c.

5j. 5k. 5l. 5m. 5n. 5o. 5p. 5q. 5r.

5a. 5b. 5d. 5e. 5f. 5g.

 1. Name of Reporting Railroad 2. Alphabetic Code 3. Report Month 4. Report Year

OMB Approval No.: 2130-0500 (Continuation Sheet) SHEET ____ OF ____ RAILROAD INJURY AND ILLNESS SUMMARYFEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

FORM FRA F 6180.55a
 (single entry)

49. Special Study Block

manual.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Operators

52. 53.

40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45.

34. 35.

31.

27.

16.

12.

4. 5. 6.

3. 3a. 3b.

2. 2a. 2b.

1. 1a. 1b.

51.

36. 37. 38. 39.

33.

32.

30.

29.

28.

25. 26.

21. 22. 23. 24.

17. 18. 19. 20.

13. 14. 15.

8. 9. 10. 11.

7.

Date

50. Narrative Description (Be specific, and continue on separate sheet if necessary)

Nonfatal

Fatal

Code

Contributing Cause

Code

Primary Cause

Was this consist transporting passengers? (y/n)

Code(s) codes from reporting

If any railroad employees tested for drug or alcohol impairment, enter

cause reported)

Code

Class (1-6, X)

FRA Track

in millions)

Density (gross tons

Annual Track Code

4. West

3. East

2. South

1. North

Time Table Direction

Number

tenth)

nearest

Code

4. Industry

3. Siding

2. Yard

Code

6. Snow

5. Sleet

4. Fog

3. Rain

4. Dark 2. Cloudy

3. Dusk

2. Day

1. Dawn

Code

Abbr.

Milepost County (to State

Town

City/

HAZMAT Evacuated

Derailed

HAZMAT Damaged/

narrative)

(describe in

entry in code box)

Incident (single

Signature

Title of Preparer

Typed/Printed Name &

Engineers/ Firemen Conductors Brakemen

48. Others

Number of Crew Members

Hrs: Mins:

Conductor

Hrs: Mins:

Engineer/Operator

Length of Time on Duty

Casualties to: 46. Railroad Employees 47. Train Passengers

a. Freight b. Pass. c. Freight d. Pass. e. Caboose

Loaded Empty

& Structure Damage

Cars

Track, Signal, Way,

d. Manual e. Remote

Rear End

b. Manual c. Remote

Mid Train

End

Locomotive Units a. Head

This Consist

(2) Causing (if mechanical,

(derailed, struck, etc.)

(1) First Involved

Principal Car/Unit a. Initial and Number b. Position in Train c. Loaded(yes/no)

Equipment Damage

o. Other (specify in narrative)

n. Other than main track rules

m. Special instructions

l. Yard limits

k. Direct traffic control

j. Track warrant control

i. Time table/train orders

h. Current of traffic

g. Automatic block

f. Interlocking

e. Traffic control

d. Cab signals

c. Auto train stop

b. Auto train control

a. ATCS

Code(s)

Method(s) of Operation (enter code(s) that apply)

excluding power units)

Trailing Tons(gross tonnage,

Code

E - Estimated MPH

R - Recorded

if available)

(recorded speed,

Code Train Number/Symbol

2. No

Track Name/

1. Main

Cars Carrying HAZMAT Cars Cars Releasing People Division

13. Other Code

11. Fire/violent rupture

10. Explosion-detonation

1. Yes

Attended?

Code Was Equipment

(single entry) 9. Maint./inspect. car

Consist

Type of Equipment

Speed

(single entry) Code Type of Track

1. Clear

Visibility (single entry)

F o (specify if minus)

Temperature (F) Weather

9. Obstruction

8. RR grade crossing

7. Hwy-rail crossing

6. Broken train collision

5. Raking collision

4. Side collision

3. Rear end collision

2. Head on collision

1. Derailment

12. Other impacts

AM PM

Time of Accident/Incident

month day year

U. S. DOT-AAR Grade Crossing Identification Number Date of Accident/Incident

Name of Railroad Responsible for Track Maintenance Alphabetic Code Railroad Accident/Incident No.

Name of Other Railroad Involved in Train Accident/Incident Alphabetic Code Railroad Accident/Incident No.

Nearest

Type of Accident/

Name of Reporting Railroad Alphabetic Code

OMB Approval No.: 2130-0500

Railroad Accident/Incident No.

RAIL EQUIPMENT ACCIDENT/INCIDENT REPORT FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA)

(1) Total in Equipment Consist

(2) Total Derailed (2) Total Derailed

(1) Total in Train

8. Light loco(s).

7. Yard/switching

6. Cut of cars

5. Single car

4. Work train

3. Commuter train

2. Passenger train

FORM FRA F 6180.54

1. Freight train


OMB Approval No.: 2130-0500

of this form.

EMPLOYEE STATEMENT SUPPLEMENTING RAILROAD ACCIDENT REPORT

FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

matter mentioned in said report . . . ." 49 USC 20903. See 49 CFR 225.7 (b).

reports statute and, as such, shall not "be admitted as evidence or used for any purpose in any suit or action for damages growing out of any

NOTE: This Notice and Employee Supplement under 49 CFR 225.12 are part of the reporting railroad's accident report to FRA pursuant to the accident

FORM FRA F 6180.78

(State, nearest city/town)

(Continue statement on separate sheet, if required, and mail with statement)

necessarily be the primary or only person responsible for the accident's occurrence. The railroad has reported to FRA that the primary and/or

or the physical condition of a railroad employee. The railroad is sending you this notice because it believes that you had a role, but may not

Notice to Recipient. An accident occurred on the above date which the railroad alleges was at least partially caused by an action, lack of action, 

Name and address of railroad representative to whom form is to be returned:

Willful false statements can result in imposition of civil penalties.

PART II - EMPLOYEE STATEMENT SUPPLEMENTING RAILROAD ACCIDENT REPORT (To be completed by notified person)

Name of Railroad Representative Signature of Railroad Representative Date Signed Date Mailed/Hand Delivered

submit such a statement is entirely optional on your part. If you choose to do so, please see the additional notices and instructions on the reverse

submit a statement to FRA with a copy to this railroad and comment on any aspect of the railroad's report. The decision whether to

portion of the railroad's report; a copy of which is attached.

major contributing cause(s) of this accident are those listed above. Other causal factors related to this event may be described in the narrative

You may

Date Mailed/Hand Delivered to Railroad: ____________________

Date Mailed/Hand Delivered to FRA: _______________________ best of my knowledge and belief.

I have carefully read this statement and confirm that it is true to the

______________________________________ __________________

Signature Date Signed

Your Telephone Number Home address, if different from address in Part I

Home: ____________________ ( )

Work: ____________________ ( )

Employee's Home Address or RFD No.

Employee's Name (First, middle, last) Job Title on Date of Accident Name of Employing Railroad on Date of Accident/Incident

ATTRIBUTED TO EMPLOYEE HUMAN FACTOR

NOTICE TO RAILROAD EMPLOYEE INVOLVED IN RAIL EQUIPMENT ACCIDENT/INCIDENT

Code Description

No

No

Yes

Yes

Causes reported on Form FRA F 6180.54

Applicable to this person?

mo day year

______/______/______

Name of Reporting Railroad Date of Accident/Incident Accident/Incident No. Location of Accident/Incident

PART I - NOTICE TO RAILROAD EMPLOYEE INVOLVED IN RAIL EQUIPMENT ACCIDENT (To be completed by reporting railroad)
53a. Special Study Block 53b. Special Study Block

3. Unknown

2. No

1. Yes

Code 34. Whistle Ban

Code

3. Unknown

2. No

3. Unknown

2. No

if available)

(Recorded speed,

54. Narrative Description (Be specific, and continue on separate sheet if necessary)

Code

Incident Report Being Filed?

50. 51.

48.

44. Code 45. Code Casualties to: Killed Injured

43.

2. No 3. Unknown

42.

39. 40. 41.

35. 36. 37.

Code(s)

33.

Warning

Crossing

32.

Code

4. West

3. East

2. South

1. North

31. Time Table Direction

MPH

Code

E - Estimated

R - Recorded

30. Consist Speed

Abbr.

of Cars

29.

Locomotive Units

27. 28.

Code 25.

6. Cut of cars 9. Maint./inspect. car

5. Single car

(single entry)

Consist

24.

21. 22. 23.

Code 20b.

in the impact transporting hazardous materials?

Was the highway user and/or rail equipment involved

19.

18.

17.

16.

14. 15.

13.

11. 12.

8. Division 9. 10.

4. 6.

3. 3a. 3b.

2. 2a. 2b.

Code

2. Rail equipment 3. Both 4. Neither

Equipment Involved

Class (1-6, X)

FRA Track Number Number of

Code Track Number or Name

1. Main 2. Yard 3. Siding 4. Industry

Track Type Used by Rail 26.

8. Light loco(s).

4. Work train 7. Yard/switching

3. Commuter train

2. Passenger train

Type of Equipment 1. Freight train

Code

1. Clear 2. Cloudy 3. Rain 4. Fog 5. Sleet 6. Snow

(single entry)

Code

Code

1. Dawn 2. Day 3. Dusk 4. Dark

Visibility (single entry)

F o

Temperature (specify if minus)

20c.

1. Highway user 2. Rail equipment 3. Both 4. Neither

State here the name and quantity of the hazardous material released, if any.

Was there a hazardous materials release by Code

1. Highway user

20a.

Weather

Code

1. Rail equipment struck highway user 2. Rail equipment struck by highway user

Circumstance

1. Stalled on crossing 2. Stopped on crossing 3. Moving over crossing 4. Trapped

Position

Code Position of Car Unit in Train

Public Private

City (if in a city) Highway Name or Number

Nearest Railroad Station County State Code

 (single entry)

AM PM

Time of Accident/Incident

month day year

U. S. DOT-AAR Grade Crossing Identification Number 5. Date of Accident/Incident

Railroad Accident/Incident No.

1b.

Name of Railroad Responsible for Track Maintenance Alphabetic Code

Railroad Accident/Incident No.

1a.

Name of Other Railroad Involved in Train Accident/Incident Alphabetic Code

ACCIDENT/INCIDENT REPORT

1. North 2. South 3. East 4. West

Direction (geographical)

(est. mph at impact)

Vehicle Speed

Code Code

8. Other (specify)

7. Light loco(s) (standing)

6. Light loco(s) (moving)

5. Car(s) (standing)

4. Car(s) (moving)

3. Train (standing)

2. Train (units pushing)

1. Train (units pulling)

Equipment

M. Other (specify)

K. Pedestrian

J. Other motor vehicle

H. Motorcycle

G. School bus

F. Bus

E. Van

D. Pick-up truck

C. Truck-trailer

B. Truck

A. Auto

Type

Highway User Involved Rail Equipment Involved

7.

1. Name of Reporting Railroad Alphabetic Code

OMB Approval No.: 2130-0500

Railroad Accident/Incident No.

HIGHWAY-RAIL GRADE CROSSING

FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

* NOTE THAT ALL CASUALTIES MUST BE REPORTED ON FORM FRA F 6180.55A

1. Yes 2. No

Is a Rail Equipment Accident/

52. Passengers on Train

 (include passengers and train crew)

49. Railroad Employees Total Number of People on Train

 (include driver)

46. Highway-Rail Crossing Users Total Number of Highway-Rail Crossing Users

1. Yes 2. No

Was Driver in the Vehicle?

47.

1. Killed 2. Injured 3. Uninjured

Driver was

(est. dollar damage)

Highway Vehicle Property Damage

38.

8. Not obstructed

7. Other (specify)

6. Highway vehicles

5. Vegetation

4. Topography

3. Passing train

2. Standing railroad equipment

1. Permanent structure

Code View of Track Obscured by (primary obstruction) Code

1. Yes

 Highway Vehicle

Driver Passed Standing

5. Other (specify)

4. Stopped on crossing

3. Did not stop

2. Stopped and then proceeded

1. Drove around or thru the gate

Driver

1. Yes 2. No 3. Unknown

Code

and Struck or was Struck by Second Train

Driver Drove Behind or in Front of Train

Signaled Crossing 

12. None

11. Other (specify)

10. Flagged by crew

9. Watchman

8. Stop signs

7. Crossbucks

6. Audible

5. Hwy. traffic signals

4. Wig wags

3. Standard FLS

2. Cantilever FLS

Type of 1. Gates

55. Typed Name and Title 56. Signature 57. Date

Code

2. Female

1. Male

Driver's Gender

Age

Driver's

1. Yes

Code

Lights or Special Lights

Code Crossing Illuminated by Street

1. Yes

with Highway Signals

Code Crossing Warning Interconnected

FORM FRA F 6180.57

3. Opposite side of vehicle approach

2. Side of vehicle approach

1. Both sides

Location of Warning

(See reverse side for 

instructions and codes)
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING BLOCK 33

Only if Types 1 - 6, Item 32 are indicated, mark in Block 33 the status of the warning devices at the crossing at the time of the accident, using the 

following codes:

1. Provided minimum 20-second warning.

2. Alleged warning time greater than 60 seconds.

3. Alleged warning time less than 20 seconds.

4. Alleged no warning.

5. Confirmed warning time greater than 60 seconds.

6. Confirmed warning time less than 20 seconds.

7. Confirmed no warning.

If status code 5, 6, or 7 was entered, also enter a letter code explanation from the list below:

A. Insulated rail vehicle.

B. Storm/lightning damage.

C. Vandalism.

D. No power/batteries dead.

E. Devices down for repair.

F. Devices out of service

G. Warning time greater than 60 seconds attributed to accident-involved train stopping short of the crossing, but within track circuit limits,

 while warning devices remain continuously active with no other in-motion train present. 

H. Warning time greater than 60 seconds attributed to track circuit failure (e.g., insulated rail joint or rail bonding failure, track or ballast 

fouled, etc.). 

J. Warning time greater than 60 seconds attributed to other train/equipment within track circuit limits. 

K. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to signals timing out before train's arrival at the crossing/island circuit. 

L. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to train operating counter to track circuit design direction. 

M. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to train speed in excess of track circuit's design speed.

N. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to signal system's failure to detect train approach.

P. Warning time less than 20 seconds attributed to violation of special train operating instructions.

R. No warning attributed to signal system's failure to detect the train.

S. Other cause(s). Explain in Narrative Description.
Wyoming

Wisconsin

West Virginia

Washington

Virginia

Vermont

Utah

Texas

Tennessee

South Dakota

South Carolina

Rhode Island

Pennsylvania

Oregon

Oklahoma

Ohio

North Dakota

North Carolina

New York

New Mexico

New Jersey

New Hampshire

Nevada

Nebraska

Montana

Missouri

Mississippi

Minnesota

Michigan

Massachusetts

Maryland

Maine

Louisiana

Kentucky

Kansas

Iowa

Indiana

Illinois

Idaho

Georgia

Florida

District of Columbia

Delaware

Connecticut

Colorado

California

Arkansas

Arizona

Alaska

Alabama

State Employee Hours Casualties

OMB Approval No.: 2130-0500

ANNUAL RAILROAD REPORT

FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

State Casualties Employee Hours

9. Typed Name and Title 10. Signature 11. Date

7. Total Employee Hours for the Year 8. Total Casualties During the Year

6.

4. Establishments Included in this Report 5. Average Employment in Report Year

FORM FRA F 6180.56

1. Reporting Railroad 2. Alphabetic Code 3. Report Year

EMPLOYEE HOURS AND CASUALTIES, BY STATE

OF
FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix I -1 Model Internal Control Plans

APPENDIX I

Model Internal Control Plans, 

including Model Statement of Policy against Harassment and Intimidation 

and Model Complaint Procedures

Explanatory Note

The Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) safety regulations require railroads to adopt and

comply with a written Internal Control Plan (ICP) on accident/incident reporting. (See Chapter 1

of Guide.) The intent of the ICP requirement is to ensure that the railroad’s Reporting Officer has

the required information to prepare accurate accident/incident reports to FRA and that employees

are not afraid to provide relevant information.

Section 225.33(a) of title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR § 225.33(a)) specifies

the components to be included in an ICP. All railroads subject to 49 CFR Part 225 must have

an ICP with:

either two components (corresponding to § 225.33(a)(1)-(2))

 or ten components (corresponding to § 225.33(a)(1)-(10)).

Certain small railroads need have only a two-component ICP. In particular, railroads that

operate or own track on the general railroad system of transportation that have 15 or fewer

employees covered by the hours of service statute (title 49, U.S. Code, chapter 211) and noninsular tourist and historic railroads that operate or own track exclusively off the general

system must have a two-component ICP. (See § 225.3(b), 61 Fed. Reg. 67490 

(Dec. 23, 1996).) The first component involves adopting, disseminating, and complying with a

policy statement against harassment and intimidation, including a statement of the

disciplinary action to be imposed for violation of this policy. The second component entails (i)

having a both procedure for processing complaints of violations and a policy not to retaliate

against complainants and (ii) disclosing such procedure and policy. 

Other railroads subject to Part 225 must have a full-scale ICP that includes all ten

components specified in § 225.33(a)(1)-(10).

Primarily to assist small railroads in developing their ICPs, FRA is presenting in this appendix

two model ICPs that could be used. Each contains blanks to be completed by the railroad.

For railroads required to have only a two-component ICP, Model 1 is a suggested twocomponent ICP.
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix I -2 Model Internal Control Plans

For railroads required to have a ten-component ICP, Model 2 is a suggested ICP for such

railroads with fewer than 200 employees. 

These models are only suggestions. A railroad’s trade organization may have its own model ICP. 

There is no definitive ICP. Large railroads, because of their complexity, may prefer to develop an

ICP quite different from Model 2 and yet still be consistent with the regulation. Smaller railroads

may also decide to depart from the suggested models. Details, such as the structure, forms, lines of

communication, and instructions, are left to the railroad’s discretion to design and implement. A

railroad may develop some synthesis between plans and develop its own plan so long as it is

consistent with the regulation. Railroads may follow any applicable model ICP provided in the

Guide and are also encouraged to tailor their ICP based upon their particular operation, structure,

or situation. After the ICP is put in place, if any significant changes to the railroad’s internal

reporting procedures occur, the ICP must be amended.
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix I -3 Model Internal Control Plans

Model 1 -

Model Statement of Policy against Harassment and Intimidation;

Model Complaint Procedures

Policy Statement of [Name of Railroad Company]

Concerning Complete and Accurate Reporting

of Accidents, Incidents, Injuries, and Occupational Illnesses

without Harassment or Intimidation

This railroad is committed to complete and accurate reporting of all accidents, incidents,

injuries, and occupational illnesses arising from the operation of the railroad, to full compliance

with the letter and spirit of the Federal Railroad Administration’s accident reporting regulations,

and to the principle, in absolute terms, that harassment or intimidation of any person that is

calculated to discourage or prevent such person from receiving proper medical treatment or from

reporting such accident, incident, injury, or illness will not be permitted or tolerated and will

result in disciplinary action in the form of ______________ against any employee, supervisor,

manager, or officer of this railroad committing such harassment or intimidation.

This policy statement is required by Federal regulation, 49 CFR § 225.33(a)(1)-(2), and

all employees, supervisory personnel, and management have been provided a copy of this Policy

Statement [when starting employment and/or by its remaining posted in a conspicuous location

where they can reasonably be expected to see it]. 

[NOTE: Section 225.33(a)(2) requires disclosure to all railroad employees, supervisors, and

management of the railroad’s procedures for dealing with complaints of violations of the

preceding policy and the railroad’s guarantee of “whistle blower” protection to any person

subject to the policy. Disclosure may be accomplished by combining the following paragraph

with the preceding policy statement and disseminating the combination. Alternatively, the

following information may be disclosed separately, by other means.]

[Complaint Procedures]

This railroad will investigate/implement the following procedure to process all complaints

from any person about the policy stated above being violated: _________________

_____________________________________________. This railroad will implement the

following procedure in order to impose the appropriate prescribed disciplinary actions on any
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports

 

 

Appendix I -4 Model Internal Control Plans

employee, supervisor, manager, or officer of the railroad found to have violated the policy:

____________________________________________________. This railroad shall provide

“whistle blower” protection to any person subject to this policy. Any act of intimidation should be

reported to our railroad president/operating officer/[ title ] ,_____________________. 
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

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Appendix I -5 Model Internal Control Plans

Model 2 - Model Internal Control Plan for Smaller Railroads

(suggested size: fewer than 200 employees)

RAILROAD

NAME: ________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: _________________________TELEPHONE: _____________________

 __________________________FAX: ___________________

OTHER

ADDRESS,

if any: __________________________TELEPHONE: __________________

 

 __________________________FAX: ___________________

FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA) ACCESS

 TO INTERNAL CONTROL PLAN

The Internal Control Plan shall be maintained at the office where the railroad’s accident/incident

Reporting Officer conducts his or her official business. The Plan shall be available for

examination and copying by Federal Railroad Administration representatives (including

participating State personnel) during normal business hours. 

ACCIDENT/INCIDENT REPORTING OFFICER

NAME: _____________________________ TITLE: ___________________

ADDRESS: ______________________________ TELEPHONE: _____________

(If different than above) 

 ______________________________ FAX: ___________________
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

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Appendix I -6 Model Internal Control Plans

RAILROAD AUDITS

The railroad officer responsible for auditing the performance of the reporting function is:

________________________________ _________________________________

 (Name) (Title)

A railroad audit will be conducted at least once each calendar year. For purposes of inspection

and copying by the FRA, the most recent railroad audit report may be found at:

_____________________________________. 

 (Location)

RAILROAD ORGANIZATION

A. The specific departments within a railroad whose personnel regularly come into possession of

information pertinent to the preparation of accident/incident reports to FRA are, for example, the

medical, claims, legal, operating, mechanical, track, payroll, accounting, and personnel

departments. In this railroad, the specific departments whose personnel regularly come into

possession of information pertinent to the preparation of accident/incident reports to FRA are: 

 

 .

B. The following persons are all of the managers and officers of the specific departments within

the railroad whose departments regularly come into possession of information pertinent to the

preparation of reports under Part 225.

Name (optional) Title Department Reports to

1._____________________________________________________________

 2._____________________________________________________________

 3._____________________________________________________________

 4._____________________________________________________________

 5._____________________________________________________________

 6._____________________________________________________________

 7._____________________________________________________________

NOTE: A current organization chart satisfies the requirement for identification of titles and chain

of command under heading B.

INTERNAL REPORTING FORMS AND PROCEDURES
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

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Appendix I -7 Model Internal Control Plans

The following internal forms or computer reporting system, or both, are used for the collection

and internal recording of accident/incident information:

 Forms (attached)

1. _____________________ 3. _____________________

2. _____________________ 4. _____________________

Description of the internal procedures used by the railroad for the processing of forms or

computerized data, or both, regarding accident/incident information: 

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

INTERNAL REVIEW PROCEDURES

Description of the internal review procedures for accident/incident information collected and

reports prepared by the railroad’s safety, claims, medical, and other departments engaged in

collecting and reporting accident/incident information:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Description of internal procedures for collecting cost data and compiling costs with respect to

accident/incident information: 

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

Description of internal procedures for ensuring adequate communication between the railroad

department responsible for reporting accidents/incidents to FRA and any other railroad department

responsible for collecting, receiving, processing, and reporting information on

accidents/incidents: 

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

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Appendix I -8 Model Internal Control Plans

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

Procedures for updating accident/incident information prior to reporting to FRA: _______

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

After reporting to FRA, amendments to accident/incident reports are made as specified in the

“FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports.”

ATTACHMENTS: Policy Statement

 Complaint Procedures

 Internal Reporting Forms 
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

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Appendix I -9 Model Internal Control Plans

Policy Statement of [Name of Railroad Company]

Concerning Complete and Accurate Reporting

of Accidents, Incidents, Injuries, and Occupational Illnesses

without Harassment or Intimidation

This railroad is committed to complete and accurate reporting of all accidents, incidents, injuries,

and occupational illnesses arising from the operation of the railroad, to full compliance with the

letter and spirit of FRA’s accident reporting regulations, and to the principle, in absolute terms,

that harassment or intimidation of any person that is calculated to discourage or prevent such

person from receiving proper medical treatment or from reporting such accident, incident, injury,

or illness will not be permitted or tolerated and will result in the following disciplinary action

against any employee, supervisor, manager, or officer of the railroad committing such harassment

or intimidation. 

Disciplinary Action: _______________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

The preceding Policy Statement has been disseminated to all employees, supervisory personnel,

and management. 

[NOTE: Section 225.33(a)(2) requires disclosure to all railroad employees, supervisors, and

management of the railroad’s procedures for dealing with complaints of violations of the

preceding policy and the railroad’s guarantee of “whistle blower” protection to any person

subject to the policy. Disclosure may be accomplished by combining the following paragraph

with the preceding policy statement and disseminating the combination. Alternatively, the

following information may be disclosed separately, by other means.]

COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

Railroad procedures to process a complaint of violation of the Policy:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Railroad procedures to impose the appropriate prescribed disciplinary actions on each employee,

supervisor, manager, or officer of the railroad found to have violated the Policy:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________
 

APPENDIX I - Continued

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Appendix I -10 Model Internal Control Plans

” These procedures have been disclosed to railroad employees, supervisors, managers, and

officers, including the stipulation that “whistle blower” protection is provided to any person

subject to the Policy.