49 C.F.R. § 213.237 Inspection of rail.
Title 49 - Transportation
(a) In addition to the track inspections required by §213.233, a continuous search for internal defects shall be made of all rail in Classes 4 through 5 track, and Class 3 track over which passenger trains operate, at least once every 40 million gross tons (mgt) or once a year, whichever interval is shorter. On Class 3 track over which passenger trains do not operate such a search shall be made at least once every 30 mgt or once a year, whichever interval is longer. (This paragraph (a) is applicable January 1, 1999. (b) Inspection equipment shall be capable of detecting defects between joint bars, in the area enclosed by joint bars. (c) Each defective rail shall be marked with a highly visible marking on both sides of the web and base. (d) If the person assigned to operate the rail defect detection equipment being used determines that, due to rail surface conditions, a valid search for internal defects could not be made over a particular length of track, the test on that particular length of track cannot be considered as a search for internal defects under paragraph (a) of this section. (This paragraph (d) is not retroactive to tests performed prior to September 21, 1998. (e) If a valid search for internal defects cannot be conducted for reasons described in paragraph (d) of this section, the track owner shall, before the expiration of time or tonnage limits— (1) Conduct a valid search for internal defects; (2) Reduce operating speed to a maximum of 25 miles per hour until such time as a valid search for internal defects can be made; or (3) Remove the rail from service.
Title 49: Transportation
PART 213—TRACK SAFETY STANDARDS
Subpart F—Inspection
§ 213.237 Inspection of rail.
