FRA Issues Proposed Rule to Improve Federal Track Safety Standards. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued a proposed rule to improve federal track safety standards regarding continuous welded rail (CWR) which consists of long sections of track that are welded rather than bolted together. The FRA proposal would establish specific requirements for the qualification of persons designated to inspect or supervise the installation, adjustment, or maintenance of CWR track. In addition, it proposes to: clarify the procedures for track owners to submit CWR maintenance plans to FRA for review and approval; require that a written copy of the CWR procedures manual is at all job sites where such work is occurring; and require a comprehensive annual training program for the application of written CWR procedures, among other items. Public comments may be submitted by January 15, 2009. For a copy of the full and complete proposal, click here: http://www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/1013 Contact: Rob Kulat (202) 493-6024.