OAR 741-300-0041: Applications for Variances and Operation Restrictions

(1) An application for a variance from standard clearances shall contain a statement of the condition(s), the reason(s) for the request, and the estimated cost of bringing the facility involved into full compliance with the clearance standards. Application forms may be obtained from the Department, or online at “www.oregon.gov/odot/rail/railemployeesafety.shtml”. Applications must be filed with the Department within 30 days of the date the Department documents the nonstandard condition(s). Incomplete applications will be returned. (2) In lieu of requesting a variance from the clearance standards, if railroad employee safety will not be impaired, the owner or lessee of a track on which service is provided to no other businesses may restrict operations over any portion of the track by posting an operation restriction sign, conforming to OAR 741-330-0010(2). Signs shall be located on each side of the track, facing incoming railroad movements, at a point beyond which no railroad employee may go or move equipment. The person posting the signs shall notify the Department and each railroad that provides service over the track of the intent to restrict operations. Notification shall be furnished in writing to the Department and to each railroad at least two weeks in advance of installation of the operation restriction signs. (3) In lieu of requesting a variance from the clearance standards, if neither railroad service to another rail user nor railroad employee safety will be impaired, the owner or lessee of a track on which service is provided to one or more other businesses may apply to the Department (copy to the affected railroad) for written approval to restrict operations over any portion of the track by use of an operation restriction sign conforming to OAR 741-330-0010(2). Signs shall be located on each side of the track facing incoming railroad movements, at a point beyond which no railroad employee may go or move equipment. Following railroad comment the Department may act upon the application as circumstances warrant. If the application is approved, the person permitted to install such signs shall notify the Department and each affected railroad in writing of the fact of installation at least two weeks in advance of intended operation. (4) Upon receipt of the foregoing notification of installation, each affected railroad shall immediately instruct its operating employees in writing, by special instruction or timetable bulletin, not to go or move equipment beyond the point at which the operation restriction signs are posted. (5) An owner or lessee of a track shall not remove an operation restriction sign unless the facility is in full compliance with the clearance rules or unless the Department has approved an application for a variance.