49 CFR Part 231 — Railroad Safety Appliance Standards

PART 231—RAILROAD SAFETY APPLIANCE STANDARDS Authority: 49 U.S.C. 20102-20103, 20107, 20131, 20301-20303, 21301-21302, 21304; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note; and 49 CFR 1.89. Source: 33 FR 19663, Dec. 25, 1968, unless otherwise noted. Note: Where rivets or bolts are required in this part 231 a two-piece steel rivet may be used consisting of: (a) A solid shank of one-half ( 1/2 (b) A collar of similar material which is cold swaged into the locking grooves forming a head for the opposite end of item (a) after the pull groove section has been removed. § 231.0 Applicability and penalties. (a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, this part applies to all standard gage railroads. (b) This part does not apply to: (1) A railroad that operates only on track inside an installation which is not part of the general railroad system of transportation; or (2) Rapid transit operations in an urban area that are not connected with the general railroad system of transportation. (3) Freight and other non-passenger trains of four-wheel coal cars. (4) Freight and other non-passenger trains of eight-wheel standard logging cars if the height of each car from the top of the rail to the center of the coupling is not more than 25 inches. (5) A locomotive used in hauling a train referred to in paragraph (b)(4) of this section when the locomotive and cars of the train are used only to transport logs. (c) Except for the provisions governing uncoupling devices, this part does not apply to Tier II passenger equipment as defined in § 238.5 of this chapter ( i.e., (d) As used in this part, carrier (e) Railroad (f) Any person (an entity of any type covered under 49 U.S.C. 21301, including the following: a railroad; a manager, supervisor, official, or other employee or agent of a railroad; any owner, manufacturer, lessor, or lessee of railroad equipment, track, or facilities; any independent contractor providing goods or services to a railroad; and any employee of such owner, manufacturer, lessor, lessee, or independent contractor) who violates any requirement of this part or causes the violation of any such requirement is subject to a civil penalty of at least the minimum civil monetary penalty and not more than the ordinary maximum civil monetary penalty per violation. However, penalties may be assessed against individuals only for willful violations, and a penalty not to exceed the aggravated maximum civil monetary penalty per violation may be assessed, where: (1) A grossly negligent violation, or a pattern of repeated violations, has created an imminent hazard of death or injury to persons; or (2) A death or injury has occurred. See 49 CFR part 209, appendix A. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. See FRA's website at https://railroads.dot.gov/ (g) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, § 231.31 also applies to an operation on a 24-inch, 36-inch, or other narrow gage railroad. [54 FR 33229, Aug. 14, 1989] Editorial Note: For Federal Register www.govinfo.gov. § 231.1 Box and other house cars built or placed in service before October 1, 1966. Except for box and other house cars that comply with either § 231.27 or § 231.28, each box and other house car shall be equipped to meet the following specifications: (a) Handbrake Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/4 (ii) The brake wheel may be flat or dished, not less than 15, preferably 16, inches in diameter, of malleable iron, wrought iron, or steel. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on end of car, to the left of and not less than 17 nor more than 22 inches from center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (iv) Carriers are not required to change the location of brake wheels and brake shafts on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Outside edge of brake wheel shall be not less than 4 inches from a vertical plane parallel with end of car and passing through the inside face of knuckle when closed with coupler horn against the buffer block or end sill. (iii) Top brake-shaft support shall be fastened with not less than 1/2 (iv) A brake-shaft step shall support the lower end of brake shaft. A brake-shaft step which will permit the brake chain to drop under the brake shaft shall not be used. U-shaped form of brakeshaft step is preferred. (See plate A.) (v) Brake shaft shall be arranged with a square fit at its upper end to secure the hand-brake wheel; said square fit shall be not less than seven-eighths of an inch square. Square-fit taper, nominally 2 in 12 inches. (See plate A.) (vi) Brake chain shall be of not less than 3/8 7/16 7/16 1/2 1/2 (vii) Lower end of brake shaft shall be provided with a trunnion of not less than 3/4 (viii) Brake-shaft drum shall be not less than 1 1/2 (ix) Brake ratchet wheel shall be secured to brake shaft by a key or square fit; said square fit shall be not less than 1 5/16 (x) Brake ratchet wheel shall be not less than 5 1/4 1/2 (xi) If brake ratchet wheel is more than 36 inches from brake wheel, a brake-shaft support shall be provided to support this extended upper portion of brake shaft; said brake-shaft support shall be fastened with not less than 1/2 (xii) The brake pawl shall be pivoted upon a bolt or rivet not less than five-eighths of an inch in diameter, or upon a trunnion secured by not less than 1/2 (xiii) Brake wheel shall be held in position on brake shaft by a nut on a threaded extended end of brake shaft; said threaded portion shall be not less than three-fourths of an inch in diameter; said nut shall be secured by riveting over or by the use of a lock nut or suitable cotter. (xiv) Brake wheel shall be arranged with a square fit for brake shaft in hub of said wheel; taper of said fit, nominally 2 in 12 inches. (See plate A.) (b) Brake step. (1) Manner of application. 3/8 1/2 1/2 (c) Running boards Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/8 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. Provided, (ii) The ends of longitudinal running board shall be not less than 6 nor more than 10 inches from a vertical plane parallel with end of car and passing through the inside face of knuckle when closed with coupler-horn against the buffer-block or endsill; and if more than 4 inches from edge of roof of car, shall be securely supported their full width by substantial metal braces. (iii) Running board shall be securely fastened to car and be made of wood or of material which provides the same as or a greater degree of safety than wood of 1 1/8 (d) Sill steps Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Outside edge of tread of step shall be not more than 4 inches inside of face of side of car, preferably flush with side of car. (iii) Tread shall be not more than 24, preferably not more than 22, inches above the top of rail. (iv) Carriers are not required to change location of sill steps on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Sill steps shall be securely fastened with not less than 1/2 1/2 (e) Ladders Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) Top ladder tread shall be located not less than 12 nor more than 18 inches from roof at eaves. (iii) Spacing of side ladder treads shall be uniform within a limit of 2 inches from top ladder tread to bottom tread of ladder. (iv) Maximum distance from bottom tread of side ladder to top tread of sill step, 21 inches. (v) End ladder treads shall be spaced to coincide with treads of side ladders, a variation of 2 inches being allowed. Where construction of car will not permit the application of a tread of end ladder to coincide with bottom tread of side ladder, the bottom tread of end ladder must coincide with second tread from bottom of side ladder. (vi) Hardwood treads, minimum dimensions 1 1/2 (vii) Iron or steel treads, minimum diameter five-eighths of an inch. (viii) Minimum clearance of treads, 2, preferably 2 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of ladders on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the end ladders on steel or steel underframe cars with platform end sill, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Stiles of ladders, projecting 2 or more inches from face of car, will serve as foot guards. (iii) Ladders shall be securely fastened with not less than 1/2 1/2 (f) End ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance, within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (g) Roof handholds Number. (ii) One right-angle handhold may take the place of two adjacent specified roof handholds, provided the dimensions and locations coincide, and that an extra leg is securely fastened to car at point of angle. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handhold under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (h) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds, on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (i) Horizontal end handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) A handhold 14 inches in length may be used where it is impossible to use one 16 inches in length. (iii) Minimum clearance, 2, preferably 2 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) One near each side of each end of car on face of end sill or sheathing over end sill, projecting outward or downward. Clearance of outer end of handhold shall be not more than 16 inches from side of car. (iii) On each end of cars with platform end sills 6 or more inches in width, measured from end post or siding and extending entirely across end of car, there shall be one additional end handhold not less than 24 inches in length, located near center of car, not less than 30 nor more than 60 inches above platform end sill. (iv) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds, on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (j) Vertical end handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds, on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (k) Uncoupling levers Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) Uncoupling levers of design shown on plate B and of similar designs shall conform to the following prescribed limits: (iii) Handles shall be not more than 12, preferably 9, inches from sides of cars. Center lift arms shall be not less than 7 inches long. (iv) Center of eye at end of center lift arm shall be not more than 3 1/2 (v) Ends of handles shall extend not less than 4 inches below bottom of end sill or shall be so constructed as to give a minimum clearance of 2 inches around handle. Minimum drop of handles shall be 12 inches; maximum, 15 inches over all. (See plate B.) (vi) Handles of uncoupling levers of the “rocking” or “push-down” type shall be not less than 18 inches from top of rail when lock block has released knuckle, and a suitable stop shall be provided to prevent inside arm from flying up in case of breakage. (3) Location. (Secs. 2, 4, and 6, 27 Stat. 531, as amended; secs, 1 and 3, 32 Stat. 943, as amended; sec. 6(e) and (f), 80 Stat. 939 (45 U.S.C. 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10, 11-16 and 49 U.S.C. 103(c)(1)) [33 FR 19663, Dec. 25, 1968, as amended at 49 FR 26745, June 29, 1984] § 231.2 Hopper cars and high-side gondolas with fixed ends. (Cars with sides more than 36 inches above the floor are high-side cars.) (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on end of car to the left of, and not more than 22 inches from, center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (iv) Carriers are not required to change the location of brake wheels and brake shafts on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Brake step. (c) Sill steps. (d) Ladders Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (e) Side handholds. (f) Horizontal end handholds. (g) Vertical end handholds. (h) Uncoupling levers. (i) End-ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. § 231.3 Drop-end high-side gondola cars. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on end of car to the left of center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Sill steps. (c) Ladders Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of ladders on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (d) Side handholds. (e) Horizontal end handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (f) Uncoupling levers. (g) End ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance, within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. § 231.4 Fixed-end low-side gondola and low-side hopper cars. (Cars with sides 36 inches or less above the floor are low-side cars.) (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on end of car, to the left of and not more than 22 inches from center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (iv) Carriers are not required to change the location of brake wheels and brake shafts on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Brake step. (c) Sill steps. (d) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (e) Horizontal end handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) One near each side of each end of car on face of end sill, projecting outward or downward. Clearance of outer end of handhold shall be not more than 16 inches from side of car. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (f) Uncoupling levers. (g) End-ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance, within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. § 231.5 Drop-end low-side gondola cars. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on end of car to the left of center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Sill steps. (c) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (d) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (e) Uncoupling levers. (f) End-ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance, within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. § 231.6 Flat cars. (Cars with sides 12 inches or less above the floor may be equipped the same as flat cars.) (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on the end of car to the left of center, or on side of car not more than 36 inches from right-hand end thereof. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (iv) Carriers are not required to change the location of brake wheels and brake shafts on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Sill steps. (c) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (d) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (e) Uncoupling levers. § 231.7 Tank cars with side platforms. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on end of car to the left of center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Sill steps. (c) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) If side safety railings are attached to tank or tank bands, four additional vertical handholds shall be applied, one as nearly as possible over each sill step and securely fastened to tank or tankband. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (d) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (e) Tank-head handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (f) Safety railings Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (g) Uncoupling levers. (h) End-ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance, within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. § 231.8 Tank cars without side sills and tank cars with short side sills and end platforms. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on end of car to the left of center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Running boards Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (ii) The running boards at ends of car shall be not less than 6 inches from a point vertically above the inside face of knuckle when closed with coupler horn against the buffer block, end sill or back stop. (iii) Running boards shall be securely fastened to tank or tank bands. (c) Sill steps Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Outside edge of tread of step shall be not more than 4 inches inside of face of side of car, preferably flush with side of car. (iii) Tread shall be not more than 24, preferably not more than 22, inches above the top of rail. (iv) Carriers are not required to change the location of sill steps on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed in said order. (4) Manner of application. (d) Ladders. (1) Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (ii) Wrought iron or steel treads, minimum diameter five-eighths of an inch. Minimum clearance, 2, preferably 2 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 (e) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) If side safety railings are attached to tank or tank bands four additional vertical handholds shall be applied, one as nearly as possible over each sill step and securely fastened to tank or tank bands. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (f) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (g) Tank-head handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 7, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (h) Safety railings Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (i) Uncoupling levers. (j) End-ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance, within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. § 231.9 Tank cars without end sills. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (b) Brake step. (c) Running boards Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Running boards at ends of car shall be not less than 6 inches from a point vertically above the inside face of knuckle when closed with coupler horn against the buffer block, end sill or back stop. (iii) Running boards shall be securely fastened to tank or tank bands. (d) Sill steps Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Tread not more than 24, preferably not more than 22, inches above the top of rail. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Sill steps shall be securely fastened with not less than 1/2 1/2 (e) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location Horizontal, (ii) Where such side handholds are more than 18 inches from end of car, an additional handhold must be placed near each end on each side not more than 30 inches above center line of coupler. (iii) Clearance of outer end of handhold shall be not more than 12 inches from end of car. (iv) If safety railings are on tank, four additional vertical handholds shall be applied, one over each sill step on tank. (v) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (f) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (g) Safety railings Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (h) Uncoupling levers Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (i) End-ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance, within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. § 231.10 Caboose cars with platforms. Note: a. The term “bottom of car” as used in § 231.10 is construed to mean “bottom of side-sill or sheathing over side-sill.” b. The term “corner of car” as used in § 231.10 is construed to mean the “line at inner edge of platform formed by the intersection of the side and end of car.” (a) Hand brakes Number. (ii) The hand brake may be of any efficient design, but must provide the same degree of safety as the design shown on plate A. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft on caboose cars with platforms shall be located on platform to the left of center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Running boards Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Outside - metal - roof - cars shall have latitudinal extensions leading to ladder locations. (4) Manner of application. (c) Ladders Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. see (d) Roof handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (e) Cupola handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Four right-angle handholds, one at each corner, not less than 16 inches in clear length from point of angle, may take the place of the one continuous handhold specified, if locations coincide. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (f) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (g) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (h) End-platform handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (i) Caboose-platform steps. (j) Uncoupling levers. Note: Running boards may be omitted from Caboose Cars with platforms built after June 1, 1970, when each of the following conditions have been met: (1) That ladders, roof handholds (including ladder extensions) and cupola handholds as specified in paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) of this § 231.10 are also omitted. (2) That an appropriate notice be posted in protective manner or stenciled on interior of caboose stating “operating employees are prohibited under all conditions from occupying the roof of this caboose.” (3) That a safe means must be provided to assure the safety of an operating employee when required to clean or maintain windows of a caboose without running boards. (4) That the following additional safety appliances as specified be securely installed at the outer edge of each platform: (a) Safety railing (i) Number: Horizontal—Four (4), two (2) upper and two (2) lower. Vertical—Four (4). (ii) Dimensions: Minimum diameter—One (1) inch wrought iron, steel, or other material of equivalent strength. Minimum clearance—Four (4), preferably six (6) inches except at brace and fastening locations. (iii) Location: Vertical—One (1) at each corner of car extending from platform end sill to level of lower horizontal safety railing or to suitable bracket at roof. Horizontal—Upper: Across each end of car near outer edge securely braced with vertical supports not less than 48 nor more than 54 inches above top of platform extending not less than full width of platform excluding hand brake stanchion area. Horizontal—Lower: Across each end of car near outer edge securely braced with vertical supports not less than 36 nor more than 42 inches above top of platform excluding hand brake stanchion area. An opening may be provided near center. Such opening shall be provided with a secure safety chain(s) not less than 1/4 (iv) Manner of application: Safety railing shall be securely fastened with 1/2 (b) Kick plates (i) Number: Four (4). (ii) Dimensions: Minimum thickness 10-gauge wrought iron, steel or other material of equivalent strength. Width—Minimum 24 inches. Height—Minimum 24 inches. (iii) Location: One near each side on each and. Outer edge not more than 12 inches from adjacent vertical safety railing with bottom edge near top of platform. Hand brake stand may serve as part of kick plate. (iv) Manner of application: Securely fastened by 1/2 (v) Vertical hand rail supports spaced not more than eighteen (18) inches apart may be used in lieu of kick plates. (5) That stove pipe shall be secured to prevent turning. (6) That windows shall be laminated safety-type glass or equivalent. Existing caboose cars with platforms. (1) That ladder treads above safety railing, roof handholds including ladder extensions, and cupola handholds specified in paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) of this § 231.10 are removed. (2) That an appropriate notice be posted in protective manner or stenciled in interior of caboose stating “operating employees are prohibited under all conditions from occupying the roof of this caboose.” (3) That a safe means must be provided to assure the safety of an operating employee when required to clean or maintain windows of a caboose without running boards. (4) That end platform safety railing and handhold arrangement will be deemed to meet requirements except as to upper safety railing and kick plates, when those appliances are not provided. When vertical supports are not more than twenty-four (24) inches apart, such supports may be used in lieu of kick plates. (5) That the following additional safety appliances (when not so provided) shall be securely installed at outer edge of each platform: (a) Safety railing. (i) Number: Horizontal upper—Two (2). (ii) Dimensions: Minimum diameter—One (1) inch wrought iron, steel, or other material of equivalent strength. Minimum clearance—Four (4), preferably six (6) inches except at brace and fastening locations. (iii) Location: Horizontal—Upper: Across each end of car near outer edge securely braced with vertical supports not less than 48 nor more than 54 inches above top of platform extending not less than full width of platform excluding hand brake stanchion area. Ladder tread not more than two (2) inches below level of upper safety railing may serve as a portion of said safety railing. (b) Kick plates or vertical supports—Same as provided for caboose cars with platforms built after June 1, 1970, this note. See above. (6) That stove pipe should be secured to prevent turning. (7) Cupola or bay windows shall be laminated safety-type glass or equivalent and all other caboose windows shall be so provided on or before June 1, 1975. [33 FR 19663, Dec. 25, 1968, as amended at 35 FR 10149, June 20, 1970] § 231.11 Caboose cars without platforms. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft on caboose cars without platforms shall be located on end of car to the left of center. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the brakes from right to left side on steel or steel-underframe cars with platform end sills, in service July 1, 1911, except when such appliances are renewed, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (b) Brake step. (c) Running boards Number. (2) Dimension. (3) Location. (ii) Outside-metal-roof cars shall have latitudinal extensions leading to ladder locations. (4) Manner of application. (d) Sill steps. (e) Side-door steps Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 7/8 3/4 (f) Ladders Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (g) End-ladder clearance. (2) Carriers are not required to make changes to secure additional end-ladder clearance on cars in service July 1, 1911, that have 10 or more inches end-ladder clearance, within 30 inches of side of car, until car is shopped for work amounting to practically rebuilding body of car, at which time they must be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (h) Roof handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Where stiles of ladders extend 12 inches or more above roof, no other roof handholds are required. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (i) Cupola handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Four right-angle handholds, one at each corner, not less than 16 inches in clear length from point of angle, may take the place of the one continuous handhold specified, if locations coincide. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (j) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. (k) Side-door handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) One vertical handhold at ladder side of each door from a point not less than 36 inches above bottom of car to a point not more than 6 inches above level of bottom of door. (iii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (l) Horizontal end handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (ii) Carriers are not required to change the location of handholds on cars in service July 1, 1911, except end handholds under end sills, where the appliances are within 3 inches of the required location, except that when cars undergo regular repairs they must then be made to comply with the standards prescribed in said order. (4) Manner of application. (m) Vertical end handholds. (n) Uncoupling levers. § 231.12 Passenger-train cars with wide vestibules. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Location. (b) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/4 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (c) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (ii) Handholds shall be flush with or project not more than 1 inch beyond vestibule face. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (d) Uncoupling levers. (2) Minimum length of ground uncoupling attachment, 42 inches, measured from center line of end of car to handle of attachment. (3) On passenger-train cars used in freight or mixed-train service, the uncoupling attachment shall be so applied that the coupler can be operated from left side of car. § 231.13 Passenger-train cars with open-end platforms. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Location. (b) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (c) End-platform handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (d) Uncoupling levers. (2) Minimum length of ground uncoupling attachment, 42 inches, measured from center of end of car to handle of attachment. (3) On passenger-train cars used in freight or mixed-train service the uncoupling attachments shall be so applied that the coupler can be operated from left side of car. § 231.14 Passenger-train cars without end platforms. (a) Handbrakes Number. (2) Location. (b) Sill steps Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Outside edge of tread of step shall be not more than 2 inches inside of face of side of car. (iii) Tread shall be not more than 24, preferably not more than 22, inches above the top of rail. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Sill steps shall be securely fastened with not less than 1/2 1/2 (c) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (i) If horizontal, not less than 24 nor more than 30 inches above center line of coupler. (ii) If vertical, lower end not less than 18 nor more than 24 inches above center line of coupler. (4) Manner of application. (d) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (ii) End handholds shall be securely fastened with bolts or rivets. (iii) When marker sockets or brackets are located so that they can not be conveniently reached from platforms, suitable steps and handholds shall be provided for men to reach such sockets or brackets. (e) End handrails. (1) Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (f) Side-door steps Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Side-door steps shall be securely fastened with not less than 1/2 1/2 (iii) A vertical handhold not less than 24 inches in clear length shall be applied above each side-door step on door post. (g) Uncoupling levers. (2) Minimum length of ground uncoupling attachment, 42 inches, measured from center line of end of car to handle of attachment. (3) On passenger-train cars used in freight or mixed-train service, the uncoupling attachment shall be so applied that the coupler can be operated from the left side of car. § 231.15 Steam locomotives used in road service. (a) Tender till-steps Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) If stirrup steps are used, clear length of tread shall be not less than 10, preferably 12, inches. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (b) Pilot sill-steps Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (c) Pilot-beam handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. 1/2 (4) Manner of application. (d) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) One on each side of tender near gangway; 1 on each side of locomotive at gangway; applied vertically. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 (e) Rear-end handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 (f) Uncoupling levers Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (g) Couplers. § 231.16 Steam locomotives used in switching service. (a) Footboards Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) Minimum height of back stop, 4 inches above tread. (iii) Height from top of rail to top of tread, not more than 12 nor less than 9 inches. (iv) If made of wood, minimum thickness of tread shall be 1 1/2 (v) Footboards may be made of material other than wood which provides the same as or a greater degree of safety than wood of 1 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Footboards shall be securely bolted to two 1- by 4-inch metal brackets, provided footboard is not cut or notched at any point. (iii) If footboard is cut or notched or in two sections, not less than four 1- by 3-inch metal brackets shall be used, two located on each side of coupler. Each bracket shall be securely bolted to buffer-beam, end sill or tank frame by not less than two 7/8 (iv) If side footboards are used, a substantial handhold or rail shall be applied not less than 30 inches nor more than 60 inches above tread or footboard. (b) Sill steps Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) If stirrup steps are used, clear length of tread shall be not less than 10, preferably 12, inches. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (c) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (d) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (e) Uncoupling levers Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) Rear-end levers shall extend across end of tender with handles not more than 12, preferably 9, inches from side of tender, with a guard bent on handle to give not less than 2 inches clearance around handle. (3) Location. (f) Handrails and steps for headlights. (g) End-ladder clearance. (h) Couplers. § 231.17 Specifications common to all steam locomotives. (a) Hand brakes. (2) If tenders are detached from locomotives and used in special service, they shall be equipped with efficient hand brakes. (b) Running boards Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Locomotives having Wootten type boilers with cab located on top of boiler more than 12 inches forward from boiler head shall have suitable running boards running from cab to rear of locomotive, with handrailings not less than 20 nor more than 48 inches above outside edge of running boards, securely fastened with bolts, rivets, or studs. (c) Handrails Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (d) Tenders of Vanderbilt type. (2) There shall be a handrail on each side of top running board, extending from coal space to rear of tank, not less than 1 inch in diameter and not less than 20 inches in height above running board from coal space to manhole. (3) There shall be a handrail extending from coal space to within 12 inches of rear of tank, attached to each side of tank above side running board not less than 30 nor more than 66 inches above running board. (4) There shall be one vertical end handhold on each side of Vanderbilt type of tender, located within 8 inches of rear of tank extending from within 8 inches of top of end sill to within 8 inches of side handrail. Post supporting rear end of side running board, if not more than 2 inches in diameter and properly located, may form section of handhold. (5) An additional horizontal end handhold shall be applied on rear end of all Vanderbilt type of tenders which are not equipped with vestibules. Handhold to be located not less than 30 nor more than 66 inches above top of end sill. Clear length of handhold to be not less than 48 inches. (6) Ladders shall be applied at forward ends of side running boards. (e) Handrails and steps for headlights. (2) A suitable metal end or side ladder shall be applied to all tanks more than 48 inches in height, measured from the top of end sill, and securely fastened with bolts or rivets. (f) Couplers. § 231.18 Cars of special construction. Cars of construction not covered specifically in the foregoing sections in this part, relative to handholds, sill steps, ladders, hand brakes and running boards may be considered as of special construction, but shall have, as nearly as possible, the same complement of handholds, sill steps, ladders, hand brakes, and running boards as are required for cars of the nearest approximate type. § 231.19 Definition of “Right” and “Left.” Right Left § 231.20 Variation in size permitted. To provide for the usual inaccuracies of manufacturing and for wear, where sizes of metal are specified, a total variation of 5 percent below size given is permitted. § 231.21 Tank cars without underframes. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (b) End platforms Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (c) Sill steps. (d) End platform safety railing Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (e) Side railing Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (f) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (g) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (h) Uncoupling levers. (i) End ladder clearance. (j) Operating platform, ladder and safety railing Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) Ladder treads minimum diameter, five-eighths of an inch, wrought iron or steel. (iii) Minimum clear length of treads, fourteen inches. (iv) Maximum spacing of treads, nineteen inches. (v) Minimum clearance of treads and ladder stiles, two inches, preferably two and one-half inches. (vi) Operating platform, minimum width, seven inches; minimum thickness, one and three-quarters inches. (vii) Safety railing, one and one-quarter inch wrought iron or steel pipe. (3) Location. (ii) The safety railing shall enclose the operating platform, manway and fittings used in the loading and unloading of the tank. Railing shall be open only at the ladders where it shall extend in a vertical direction down to, and be securely attached to the platform. Maximum width of opening, twenty-four inches. (4) Manner of application. (ii) The operating platforms shall be supported to prevent sagging and be securely attached to the tank. (iii) The safety railing shall be securely attached to four stanchions or corner posts, which shall be securely attached to the tank or operating platform. (k) Manner of application of safety appliances on tank cars covered with jackets. [33 FR 19663, Dec. 25, 1968, as amended at 34 FR 11974, July 16, 1969] § 231.22 Operation of track motor cars. On and after August 1, 1963, it shall be unlawful for any railroad subject to the requirements of the Safety Appliance Acts to operate or permit to be operated on its line track motor cars to pull or haul trailers, push trucks, hand cars, or similar cars or equipment. Effective Date Note: At 28 FR 7839, Aug. 1, 1963, the effective date of § 231.22 was stayed until further notice. § 231.23 Unidirectional passenger-train cars adaptable to van-type semi-trailer use. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Location. (b) Brake step Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Manner of application. 3/8 1/2 1/2 (c) Sill steps Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (d) End-clearance. (e) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 5/8 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (f) Horizontal end-handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 5/8 1/2 (3) Location. (i) Lower: One near each side of the rear or trailing end of car, not less than twenty-four (24) nor more than thirty (30) inches above center line of coupler. (ii) Upper: One (1) near each side at the rear or trailing end of car not less than fifteen (15) nor more than nineteen (19) inches above lower handholds. Clearance of outer ends of lower and upper handholds shall be not more than eight (8) inches from side of car. Lower and upper handholds shall be spaced to coincide with corresponding side handholds, a variation of two (2) inches being allowed. On front end of car there shall be one (1) additional end handhold full length of car not less than forty (40) nor more than fifty (50) inches above center line of coupler. Clearance of each end of handhold shall be not more than eight (8) inches from side of car. When construction will not permit the use of a single handhold, four (4) handholds, each not less than sixteen (16) inches in length may be used, provided dimensions and location coincide. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (g) Uncoupling levers. § 231.24 Box and other house cars with roofs, 16 feet 10 inches or more above top of rail. 1 1 (b) Each car of this type placed in service after November 23, 1964 and before (effective date) shall be equipped— (1) As specified in § 231.24; or (2) As specified in § 231.27(a) through (h) and (j); or (3) If it has roof hatches, as specified in § 231.28. (c) Each car of this type placed in service before October 22, 1964, or under construction on October 22, 1964 and placed in service before November 23, 1964, shall be equipped— (1) As specified in § 231.1; or (2) As specified in §§ 231.1 and 231.27(i); or (3) As specified in § 231.27(a) through (h) and (j); or (4) If it has roof hatches, as specified in § 231.28. (a) Hand brakes Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (b) End-platforms Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 3/8 1/2 1/2 (c) Sill steps. (d) End-ladder clearance. (e) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (f) Horizontal end handholds Number. (2) Dimension. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (g) Horizontal end-platform handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (h) Vertical end-handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 5/8 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (i) Uncoupling levers. (j) Painting and stenciling. (2) Lettering to be not less than three (3) inches high. On each side-sill near end corner there shall be painted a yellow rectangular area with a three-fourths ( 3/4 1/2 [33 FR 19663, Dec. 25, 1968, as amended at 40 FR 34347, Aug. 15, 1975] § 231.25 Track motorcars (self-propelled 4-wheel cars which can be removed from the rails by men). (a) Handbrakes includes foot operated brake Note: The requirements of this rule will be satisfied if the ratchet or other suitable device operates in connection with at least one handbrake on track motorcars that may be equipped with more than one such brake. (b) Handholds. (c) Sill steps or footboards. (d) Couplers. § 231.26 Pushcars. (a) Handbrakes. (b) Handholds includes handles (c) Sill steps or footboards. (d) Couplers. Note: Sections 231.25 and 231.26 are applicable only when the vehicles governed thereby are coupled together and moved together. § 231.27 Box and other house cars without roof hatches or placed in service after October 1, 1966. (a) Handbrakes. (1) Number. (ii) The handbrake may be of any efficient design, but must provide a total braking force applied to brake shoes not less than the total force applied to the brake shoes by the brake cylinders at 50 pounds per square inch. (2) Dimensions. (ii) Overall diameter of brake wheel nominally twenty-two (22) inches. (iii) Depth of brake wheel hub shall be two and five-eighths (2 5/8 7/8 (iv) Brake wheel and drum shall be arranged so that both will revolve when applying and gradually releasing the handbrake. Handbrake shall be provided with means to prevent application of the brake by winding in a counterclockwise direction. (v) Brake shaft shall be arranged with a square fit at its outer end to secure the handbrake wheel; said square fit shall be not less than seven-eighths ( 7/8 (vi) All chains shall be not less than nine-sixteenths ( 9/16 (vii) All handbrake rods shall be not less than three-fourths ( 3/4 (3) Location. (ii) The brake shaft shall be located on end of car, to the left of and not less than seventeen (17) nor more than twenty-two (22) inches from center and not less than twenty-six (26) nor more than forty (40) inches above top of end-platform tread. (4) Manner of application. 3/4 (ii) Outside edge of brake wheel shall be not less than four (4) inches from a vertical plane parallel with end of car and passing through the inside face of knuckle when closed with coupler horn against the buffer block or end sill. (iii) Handbrake housing shall be securely fastened to car. (b) End platforms Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 3/8 1/2 1/2 (ii) Where conventional draft gear or cushioning device having longitudinal travel less than six (6) inches is used the outside edge of each end platform shall be not less than twelve (12) inches from a vertical plane parallel with end of car and passing through the inside face of knuckle when closed with coupler horn against buffer block. Where cushioning device having longitudinal travel six (6) inches or more is used the outside edge of each end platform shall be not less than six (6) inches from a vertical plane parallel with end of car and passing through the inside face of knuckle when closed with end sill and cushioning device at full buff. End platform shall be made of wood or of material which provides the same as or a greater degree of safety than wood of 1 1/8 (c) Sill steps Number. (2) Dimensions. 1/2 1/2 (3) Location. (ii) Outside edge of tread of step shall be not more than four (4) inches inside of face of side of car, preferably flush with side of car. (iii) Tread shall be not more than twenty-four (24), preferably not more than twenty-two (22) inches above the top of rail. (4) Manner of application. (ii) Sill steps shall be securely fastened with not less than one-half ( 1/2 1/2 (d) End ladder appliances clearance. (e) Side handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 5/8 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (f) End handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 5/8 (ii) Minimum clear length, sixteen (16) inches, preferably twenty-four (24) inches. (iii) Minimum clearance, two (2) preferably two and one-half (2 1/2 (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (g) Horizontal end-platform handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. 5/8 (ii) Minimum clearance, two (2) preferably two and one-half (2 1/2 (iii) Minimum clear length sixty (60) inches. When security of attachment requires, an extra supporting leg may be applied near center of clear length. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 1/2 (h) Uncoupling levers Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) Uncoupling levers of design shown on Plate B and of similar designs shall conform to the following prescribed limits: ( a ( b 1/2 ( c (iii) Handles of uncoupling levers of the “rocking” or “push-down” type shall be not less than eighteen (18) inches from top of rail when lockblock has released knuckle, and a suitable stop shall be provided to prevent inside arm from flying up in case of breakage. (3) Location. (i) Existing box and other house cars without roof hatches. (i) The running board, roof handholds over side and end ladders at “A” end of car and ladder treads above the fourth tread from bottom of side and end ladder at “A” end are removed; (ii) One (1) horizontal end-platform handhold is applied on each end of car as specified in this section except the right hand end shall be not more than eight (8) inches from side of car, or where car end contour makes impractical the use of a single continuous end handhold, there is applied the equivalent consisting of two (2) handholds, the center handhold to be a minimum of thirty (30) inches in clear length and the handhold to the right to be a minimum of nineteen (19) inches in clear length and to extend to within eight (8) inches of the right side of the car, such handholds to be not more than twelve (12) inches apart; and (iii) With handbrake operated near roof of car: a brake step shall be provided as specified in § 231.1 and lettering one and one-half (1 1/2 3/4 (2) Paragraph (i)(1)(ii) of this section shall not apply to cars equipped with end platforms and end platform handholds. (j) Painting and marking. (1) That portion of each end of the car which is more than fifteen (15) feet above top of rail shall be painted with contrasting reflectorized paint and bear the words “excess height car” in lettering not less than three (3) inches high; and (2) On each side sill near end corner there shall be painted or otherwise displayed a yellow rectangular area with a three-fourths ( 3/4 1/2 (Secs. 2, 4, and 6, 27 Stat. 531, as amended; secs, 1 and 3, 32 Stat. 943, as amended; sec. 6(e) and (f), 80 Stat. 939 (45 U.S.C. 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10, 11-16 and 49 U.S.C. 103(c)(1)) [33 FR 19663, Dec. 25, 1968, as amended at 40 FR 34347, Aug. 15, 1975; 49 FR 26745, June 29, 1984] § 231.28 Box and other house cars with roof hatches built or placed in service after October 1, 1966. The specifications of § 231.27 shall apply except as to the following: (a) Running boards. (b) Ladders Number. (2) Dimensions. (ii) Maximum spacing between treads nineteen (19) inches. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (c) Roof handholds Number. (2) Dimensions. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. (d) End handholds. (e) Existing box and other house cars with roof hatches. (Secs. 2, 4, and 6, 27 Stat. 531, as amended; secs, 1 and 3, 32 Stat. 943, as amended; sec. 6(e) and (f), 80 Stat. 939 (45 U.S.C. 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10, 11-16 and 49 U.S.C. 103(c)(1)) [33 FR 19663, Dec. 25, 1968, as amended at 49 FR 26745, June 29, 1984] § 231.29 Road locomotives with corner stairways. After September 30, 1979, road locomotives with corner stairway openings must be equipped with (a) uncoupling mechanisms that can be operated safely from the bottom stairway opening step as well as ground level, and (b) the vertical handholds and horizontal end handholds prescribed in § 231.30(e) and (g). No part of the uncoupling mechanism may extend into the stairway opening or end platform area when the mechanism is in its normal position or when it is operated. Each carrier shall so equip forty percent (40 percent) of its road locomotives by October 1, 1977, seventy percent (70 percent) by October 1, 1978, and all its road locomotives by October 1, 1979. [41 FR 37783, Sept. 8, 1976] § 231.30 Locomotives used in switching service. (a) General requirements. (2) Except for steam locomotives equipped as prescribed in § 231.16 of this part, all locomotives built prior to April 1, 1977, used in switching service after September 30, 1979, shall be equipped as provided in this section. Each carrier shall so equip forty percent (40 percent) of such locomotives by October 1, 1977, seventy percent (70 percent) by October 1, 1978, and all such locomotives by October 1, 1979. (3) Locomotives without corner stairway openings may not be used to perform any switching service after September 30, 1979 except passenger car switching service at passenger stations. (b) Definitions. Locomotive used in switching service (2) Switching service (3) Safety tread surface (4) Uncoupling mechanism (c) Switching step Number. (2) Dimensions. (i) On locomotives built after March 31, 1977, a minimum width of twenty-four (24) inches and a minimum depth of twelve (12) inches, except when necessary to accommodate the turning arc of a six-wheel truck and its appurtenances, the inside edge of the switching step shall have a minimum width of seventeen (17) inches (See Plate B); (ii) On locomotives built prior to April 1, 1977, a minimum width of eighteen (18) inches, and a minimum depth of eight (8) inches; (iii) A backstop, solid or perforated, with minimum height of backstop of six (6) inches above the safety tread surface; and (iv) A height of not more than nineteen (19) inches, preferably fifteen (15) inches, measured from top of rail to the safety tread surface. (3) Location. (4) Manner of application. 1/2 (ii) Vertical clearance must be unobstructed, except for minor intrusions created by mechanical fasteners or a small triangular gusset plate at the platform level walkway, and free for use for at least a distance of eighty-four (84) inches over a portion of the switching step that is not less than seven (7) inches deep by eighteen (18) inches wide on locomotives built prior to April 1, 1977, and of not less than seven (7) inches deep by twenty-four (24) inches wide on locomotives built after March 31, 1977. (5) Material. (ii) When the step material creates a second level safety tread surface, the maximum difference in surface levels may not exceed three-eighths ( 3/8 (iii) The safety tread surface must extend to within one-half ( 1/2 (6) Visibility. (d) End footboards and pilot steps. (2) Except for steam locomotives equipped as provided in § 231.16, locomotives used in switching service built before April 1, 1975, may not be equipped with end footboards or pilot steps after September 30, 1978. Whenever end footboards or pilot steps are removed from a locomotive, the uncoupling mechanism and horizontal end handholds of the locomotive must be modified to comply with paragraphs (f) and (g) of this section. (e) Vertical handholds. (1) On locomotives built after March 31, 1977, each vertical handhold must— (i) Be constructed of wrought iron, steel or other material of equivalent strength and durability that is at least one (1) inch diameter and be securely fastened to the locomotive with one-half ( 1/2 (ii) Begin not less than six (6) inches nor more than thirty-two (32) inches above the safety tread surface of the switching step; on units with high snowplows, each must begin not more than thirty-six (36) inches above the safety tread surface of the switching step; (iii) Extend upward from switching step surface at least forty-eight (48) inches; (iv) Be painted in a contrasting color to a height of at least forty-eight (48) inches above the safety tread surface of the switching step; and (v) Provide at least two and one-half (2 1/2 (2) On locomotives built before April 1, 1977, each vertical handhold must— (i) Be constructed of wrought iron, steel or other material of equivalent strength and durability that is at least seven-eighths ( 7/8 1/2 (ii) Begin not less than five (5) inches nor more than thirty-two (32) inches above the safety tread surface; on units with high snowplows, each must begin not more than thirty-six (36) inches above the safety tread surface; (iii) Extend upward from safety tread surface of the switching step at least forty-eight (48) inches; (iv) Be painted in a contrasting color to a height of at least forty-eight (48) inches above the safety tread surface of the switching step; and (v) Provide at least two and one-half (2 1/2 (f) Uncoupling mechanisms. (g) Horizontal end handholds. (1) Each horizontal end handhold must— (i) Be constructed of wrought iron, steel or other material of equivalent strength and durability that is at least five-eighths ( 5/8 1/2 (ii) Be located not less than thirty (30) inches nor more than fifty (50) inches above the top of rail with its outer end not more than 16 inches from the side of the locomotive; on units with a high snowplow that makes normal end handhold location inaccessible, end handhold shall be located on top of plow blade, with the center of the handhold not more than fifty-three (53) inches above the top of rail, and be in line with the slope of the plow blade; (iii) Be at least fourteen (14) inches long; and (iv) Provide at least two (2) inches, preferably two and one-half (2 1/2 (2) An uncoupling lever may also serve as a horizontal end handhold if it complies with the requirements of this paragraph. When an uncoupling lever also serves as the horizontal end handhold, it is considered to be securely fastened if its securement brackets are attached to the locomotive by one-half ( 1/2 [41 FR 37783, Sept. 8, 1976] § 231.31 Drawbars for freight cars; standard height. (a) Except on cars specified in paragraph (b) of this section— (1) On standard gage (56 1/2 1/2 1/2 (2) On 36-inch gage railroads, the maximum height of drawbars for freight cars (measured perpendicularly from the level of the tops of the rails to the centers of the drawbars) shall be 26 inches, and the minimum height of drawbars for freight cars on such 36-inch gage railroads (measured in the same manner) shall be 23 inches. (3) On 24-inch gage railroads, the maximum height of drawbars for freight cars (measured perpendicularly from the level of the tops of the rails to the centers of the drawbars) shall be 17 1/2 1/2 (4) On railroads operating on track with a gage other than those contained in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this section, the maximum and minimum height of drawbars for freight cars operating on those railroads shall be established upon written approval of FRA. (b) This section shall not apply to a railroad all of whose track is less than 24 inches in gage. [66 FR 4192, Jan. 17, 2001] § 231.33 Procedure for special approval of existing industry safety appliance standards. (a) General. (b) Submission. (1) The name, title, address, email address, and telephone number of the primary individual to be contacted with regard to review of the petition. (2) An existing industry-wide standard that, at a minimum: (i) Identifies the type(s) of equipment to which the standard would be applicable and the section or sections within the safety appliance regulations that the existing industry standard would operate as an alternative to for new car construction; (ii) Ensures, as nearly as possible, based upon the design of the equipment, that the standard provides for the same complement of handholds, sill steps, ladders, hand or parking brakes, running boards, and other safety appliances as are required for a piece of equipment of the nearest approximate type(s) already identified in this part; (iii) Complies with all statutory requirements relating to safety appliances contained at 49 U.S.C. 20301 and 20302; and (iv) Addresses the specific number, dimension, location, and manner of application of each safety appliance contained in the industry standard; (3) Appropriate data or analysis, or both, for FRA to consider in determining whether the existing industry standard will provide at least an equivalent level of safety; (4) Drawings, sketches, or other visual aids that provide detailed information relating to the design, location, placement, and attachment of the safety appliances; (5) A demonstration of the ergonomic suitability of the proposed arrangements in normal use; and (6) A statement affirming that the petitioner has served a copy of the petition on designated representatives of the employees responsible for the equipment's operation, inspection, testing, and maintenance under this part, together with a list of the names and addresses of the persons served. (c) Service. FRAWaivers@dot.gov. (2) Service of each petition for special approval of an existing industry safety appliance standard under paragraph (b) of this section shall be made on the following: (i) Designated representatives of the employees responsible for the equipment's operation, inspection, testing, and maintenance under this part; (ii) Any organizations or bodies that either issued the standard to which the special approval pertains or issued the industry standard that is proposed in the petition; and (iii) Any other person who has filed with FRA a current statement of interest in reviewing special approvals under the particular requirement of this part at least 30 days but not more than 5 years prior to the filing of the petition. If filed, a statement of interest shall be filed at the email address FRAWaivers@dot.gov, (d) Federal Register Federal Register http://www.regulations.gov. (e) Comment. Federal Register (1) Set forth specifically the basis upon which it is made and contain a concise statement of the interest of the commenter in the proceeding; and (2) Be submitted by mail or hand-delivery to the Docket Clerk, DOT Docket Management Facility, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, or electronically via the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov. (f) Disposition of petitions. (2) FRA will normally act on a petition within 90 days of the close of the comment period related to the petition. If the petition is neither granted nor denied within that timeframe, the petition will remain pending unless withdrawn by the petitioner. (3) A petition may be: (i) Granted where it is determined that the petition complies with all applicable Federal statutes, that the petition complies with the requirements of this section, and the existing industry safety appliance standard provides at least an equivalent level of safety as the existing FRA standards; (ii) Denied where it is determined that the petition does not comply with an applicable Federal statute, the petition does not comply with the requirements of this section, or the existing industry safety appliance standard does not provide at least an equivalent level of safety as the existing FRA standards; or (iii) Returned to the petitioner for additional consideration where it is determined that further information is required or that the petition may be amended in a reasonable manner to comply with all applicable Federal statutes, that petition may be amended to comply with the requirements of this section, or to ensure that the existing industry standard provides at least an equivalent level of safety as the existing FRA standards. Where the petition is returned to the petitioner, FRA will provide written notice to the petitioner of the item(s) identified by FRA as requiring additional consideration. Petitioner shall reply within 60 days from the date of FRA's written notice of return for additional consideration or the petition will be deemed withdrawn, unless good cause is shown. Petitioner's reply shall: (A) Address the item(s) raised by FRA in the written notice of the return of the petition for additional consideration; (B) Comply with the submission requirements of paragraph (b) of this section; and (C) Comply with the service requirements in paragraph (c) of this section. (4) When FRA grants or denies a petition, or returns a petition for additional consideration, written notice will be sent to the petitioner and other interested parties. (5) If a petition is granted, it shall go into effect on the date specified in FRA's written notice granting the petition. If no date is specified in FRA's written notice granting the petition, the effective date shall begin on January 1st, not less than one (1) year and not more than two (2) years from the date of FRA's written notice granting the petition. FRA will place a copy of the approved industry safety appliance standard in the related public docket where it can be accessed by all interested parties. (6) A petition, once approved, may be re-opened upon good cause shown. Good cause exists where subsequent evidence demonstrates that an approved petition does not comply with an applicable Federal statute; that the approved petition does not comply with the requirements of this section; that the existing industry safety appliance standard does not provide at least an equivalent level of safety as the corresponding FRA regulation for the nearest railcar type(s); or that further information is required to make such a determination. When a petition is re-opened for good cause shown, it shall return to pending status and shall not be considered approved or denied. (g) Enforcement. https://railroads.dot.gov/. [76 FR 23726, Apr. 28, 2011, as amended at 84 FR 23736, May 23, 2019; 90 FR 28170, July 1, 2025] § 231.35 Procedure for modification of an approved industry safety appliance standard for new railcar construction. (a) Petitions for modification of an approved industry safety appliance standard. (b) Service. (2) Service of each petition for modification of an existing industry safety appliance standard under paragraph (a) of this section shall be made on the following: (i) Designated representatives of the employees responsible for the equipment's operation, inspection, testing, and maintenance under this part; (ii) Any organizations or bodies that either issued the standard incorporated in the section(s) of the rule to which the modification pertains or issued the industry standard that is proposed in the petition for modification; and (iii) Any other person who has filed with FRA a current statement of interest in reviewing special approvals under the particular requirement of this part at least 30 days but not more than 5 years prior to the filing of the petition. If filed, a statement of interest shall be filed with FRA's Associate Administrator for Safety and shall reference the specific section(s) of this part in which the person has an interest. (c) Federal Register Federal Register http://www.regulations.gov. (d) Comment. Federal Register (1) Set forth specifically the basis upon which it is made, and contain a concise statement of the interest of the commenter in the proceeding; and (2) Be submitted by mail or hand-delivery to the Docket Clerk, DOT Docket Management Facility, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, or electronically via the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov. (e) FRA Review. (f) Disposition of petitions for modification. (2) If an objection is raised by an interested party, during the 60-day comment period, or if FRA issues a written objection to the requested modification, the requested modification will be treated as a petition for special approval of an existing industry safety appliance standard and handled in accordance with the procedures provided in § 231.33(f). (3) A petition for modification, once approved, may be re-opened upon good cause shown. Good cause exists where subsequent evidence demonstrates that an approved petition does not comply with the an applicable Federal statute, that an approved petition does not comply with the requirements of this section; that the existing industry safety appliance standard does not provide at least an equivalent level of safety as the corresponding FRA regulation for the nearest railcar type(s); or that further information is required to make such a determination. When a petition is re-opened for good cause shown, it shall return to pending status and shall not be considered approved or denied. (g) Enforcement. www.fra.dot.gov. [76 FR 23726, Apr. 28, 2011, as amended at 84 FR 23736, May 23, 2019]

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