Authors: Stephanie H. Markos

Date of Publication:  November 1993

Sponsoring Agency:  U.S. Department of Transportation - Federal Railroad Administration, Office of Research and Development

Performing Organization:  U.S. Department of Transportation - Federal Railroad Administration, Research and Special Programs Administration, John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center

Abstract:

The Federal Railroad Adminisration (FRA) has recognized the need for intercity and commuter passenger train systems, regardless of the size of the system and type of service provided, to engage in careful, advance planning in order to respond effectively to emergencies.  This advance planning should address emergency response procedures, training of system operating and other emergency response organization personnel, and the provision and use of emergency equipment.

This document contains recommended guidelines designed to assist system operating and emergency response organization management in evaluating and modifying or supplementing their emergency response plans.  The recommendations address guidelines relating to emergency plan, procedures and training.  In addition, guidelines for passenger train and facility features intended to (1) shorten emergency response time, (2) improve the effectiveness of evacuating passengers, and (3) minimize the effects of an emergency are presented.

The information contained in this document is intended to assist passenger train system operators to assess, develop, document, and improve their emergency response capabilities and to coordinate these efforts with emergency response organizations in a manner that best protects the traveling public and system passenger trains and facilities.

These recommendations provide a useful framework for these organizations to evaluate and, if necessary, modify or supplement their emergency preparedness plans and procedures, training, and passenger train and wayside facility equipment.

Depending on the local operating environment, certain recommendations contained in this report may not be appropriate for particular passenger train system routes or operations.
 

No. of Pages:   209