Top 5 FRA Violations — And How to Avoid Them
- marketing72156
- Jul 3
- 2 min read

In 2024, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) issued 4,164 violations, resulting in more than $16.8 million in penalties. The cost of non-compliance isn't just financial, these violations can pose serious risks to employee safety, public welfare, and operational continuity.
Understanding the top five FRA violations can help railroads and contractors proactively address common pitfalls and avoid costly enforcement actions. Here's a breakdown of the most frequent violations—and how to stay on the right side of the rails.
1. Safety Appliance Statutes & Regulations
These rules cover the required safety devices and structural features designed to protect railroad employees. Non-compliance here often stems from worn, broken, or missing equipment on locomotives and freight cars.
How to Avoid It:
Implement routine mechanical inspections and train staff to recognize and report defective appliances before departure.
2. Hazardous Materials Violations
Handling hazardous materials incorrectly can have catastrophic consequences. FRA regulations require strict protocols to ensure the safe classification, packaging, labeling, and transport of hazmat shipments.
How to Avoid It:
Ensure all employees are up to date on FRA and PHMSA hazmat training. Conduct regular hazmat audits and verify documentation and placarding before any shipment.
3. Signal Inspection Regulations
Signals are the nervous system of rail operations. Violations in this category are tied to inadequate inspection, testing, or documentation of critical warning systems.
How to Avoid It:
Follow a structured signal inspection calendar and use qualified personnel to perform and log all inspections.
4. Locomotive Standards
Covered under 49 CFR Part 229, these rules ensure locomotives are safe, well-maintained, and suitable for service. Violations often involve skipped inspections or failure to repair known defects.
How to Avoid It:
Maintain a preventative maintenance schedule, use digital recordkeeping for inspections, and train operators to report mechanical concerns early.
5. Freight Car Safety Standards
These regulations ensure that freight cars are structurally sound and mechanically safe before and during service.
How to Avoid It:
Perform thorough pre-departure inspections and tag defective cars for immediate removal from service.
The Best Way to Avoid These Violations?
Use an FRA-approved training provider to ensure your workforce is properly qualified.
Keep thorough, cloud-based documentation and inspection records.
Conduct routine audits and correct compliance issues before the FRA finds them.
Partner with a company like Axiom Rail Services—we deliver hands-on training, complete compliance systems, and proactive inspections tailored to your operation.
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