FL H0855

Railroad companies must provide walkways at least 2 feet wide adjacent to tracks where employees regularly walk (at least 2 days per week or one shift daily) by January 1, 2017, including all switching areas.

Walkways must be surfaced with asphalt, concrete, planking, grating, or crushed material meeting specified sieve opening requirements (100 percent through 1.5-inch sieve, 90 percent through 1-inch sieve for crushed material).

Walkways must be maintained in safe condition free of trash, debris, fuel oil, and other hazards, with vegetation controlled to 8 feet on sides and 18 feet overhead, and cross slopes not exceeding 1 inch elevation per 8 inches horizontal length.

The Department of Transportation may grant waivers for specific installations upon railroad application demonstrating good cause.

Parties must attempt to resolve alleged violations with the railroad company before filing formal complaints, and the department may impose fines up to $20,000 per violation per day.