FL S0224

Requires railroad companies to provide reasonably safe and adequate walkways adjacent to tracks by January 1, 2017, where employees regularly walk (at least 2 days per week or one shift per day), including all switching areas.

Walkways must be minimum 2 feet wide and surfaced with asphalt, concrete, planking, grating, native material, or crushed material meeting specific size requirements (100 percent passing 1 1/2-inch sieve, at least 90 percent passing 1-inch sieve).

Walkways must be maintained in safe condition free of debris, hazards, and obstructions, with vegetation controlled to 8 feet from track center and 18 feet overhead, and without wastewater or process water flow.

Department of Transportation may grant waivers from requirements for good cause upon application by a railroad company.

Requires good faith attempts to address alleged violations before formal complaints can be filed; Department may impose fines up to $20,000 per violation, with each day of violation counted separately.