Railcar Compliance and Enforcement:

An Update

CED-77-21: Published: Jan 12, 1977. Publicly Released: Jan 12, 1977.

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In 1974, it was found that railroad operations were not effectively monitored because of an indequate number of car service agents and because compliance activities were not adequately planned and supervised. The following were recommended in the 1974 report: inspecting some railroads more often, providing that supervisors of car service have railroad backgrounds, and improving car service agents' reporting systems.

Railcars were in short supply in 1974, but a general surplus existed in 1976. Scheduled inspections have not been accomplished with current staffing. As of September 1976, only 45 percent of the inspections had been completed; 20 percent of the scheduled inspections were over 2 years late. Information is not available on the time actually being used for inspections. Fines assessed for violations of car handling orders are much lower than the maximum allowed.

Recommendation for Executive Action

  1. Status: Closed

    Comments: Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.

    Recommendation: Considering the staff available, the Interstate Commerce Commission should establish more realistic frequencies for railroad inspections and establish a better system for reviewing and planning car agents' activities. It should also evaluate the effectiveness of the enforcement program.

    Agency Affected:

 

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