HOS Manual vs AskRail

The Hours of Service APP was developed to provide users with clarification on Hours of Service (HOS) requirements found at 49 CFR Part 228, Hours of Service Recordkeeping, and FRA hours of service interpretations and policies. This tool allows users to navigate through Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidance that exists addressing the complexity of hours of service requirements, along with the diversity of railroad operations, it assists to provide comprehensive guidance and consolidating this information into one manual to ensure standardized application and compliance. Users can select from multiple railroad user groups: Freight, Passenger, Dispatching or Signal employees. The information accessed in the mobile application is not intended to be the primary reference document for hours of service requirements; 49 CFR Part 228, FRA Operating Practices Technical Bulletins, and official FRA letters addressing hours of service issues will remain the primary reference documents when dealing with Federal hours of service requirements.

The AskRail app is a hazardous materials safety tool for first responders who are first on scene or directly support the first on scene in the event of a rail incident. Access to certain features, including the ability to query railcar contents based on an equipment number, is restricted to authorized personnel. To obtain authorization to use the restricted features, you must assert that you are a first responder, provide information about your emergency response agency, and identify a supervisor who can attest to your first responder duties. You also must obtain sponsorship from a Class I railroad. This process may take up to several weeks. AskRail is a collaborative effort among all North American Class I railroads, the Association of American Railroads, Railinc Corp., and the Transportation Technology Center, Inc. For more information about AskRail please visit: www.askrail.us.