FRAFinal Rule

Passenger Train Emergency Preparedness

Transportation

Summary

This Federal Railroad Administration rule sets new safety and emergency response requirements for passenger trains operating across the United States. The regulation ensures that train operators, staff, and passengers have better plans and training in place to handle emergencies like derailments, fires, or medical crises.

Key Points

  • 1Train companies must develop and maintain detailed emergency action plans that cover evacuation procedures, communication systems, and medical response
  • 2All passenger train staff must receive regular emergency preparedness training and drills to prepare for various crisis situations
  • 3Trains must have improved safety equipment and communication systems to quickly alert authorities and coordinate rescue efforts during emergencies
  • 4Train operators must coordinate with local emergency responders (police, fire, ambulances) to ensure a unified response when accidents happen
  • 5The rule applies to all passenger rail service in the U.S. and takes effect on a schedule set by the FRA over the next 1-2 years

Key Dates

Published

July 1, 2025

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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