Union Hails New Rules Governing Railroad Camp Cars

FRA Backs Several Recommendations By BMWED

WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) issued new regulations today to improve conditions of rail camp cars, backing several recommendations by the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) of the Teamsters Rail Conference.

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The often cramped and unsanitary sleeping and eating quarters installed in former freight rail cars or trailers will now have to comply with the rules issued by the FRA, including requirements for potable hot and cold water for bathing and washing, an increase in minimum square footage of living space per occupant, improved sanitation provisions, and restrictions against locating camp cars in the immediate vicinity of switching and humping of placarded rail cars carrying hazardous materials.

The Norfolk Southern Railroad is the only Class I railroad in the country still utilizing camp cars.   All other Class I railroads have abandoned camp cars in favor of utilizing hotels to house BMWED members working away from home.

"Our members who maintain and build track and related infrastructure for Norfolk Southern should see significant and sustained improvements in camp car conditions," said Fred Simpson, President of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division and Teamsters International Vice President.  "I've experienced the cramped and unsanitary conditions inside railroad camp cars.  I am pleased that FRA has promulgated minimum health and safety standards so BMWED members on Norfolk Southern will finally have a safer and more healthful place to sleep after a hard day's work."

The new rule can be found here: http://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2011/10/31/2011-27818/safety-and-health-requirements-related-to-camp-cars

The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division represents 32,000 men and women who work to maintain and build rail track and related infrastructure on freight and commuter rail lines in the United States. Founded in 1903, the Teamsters Union represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information.

SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters