MN HF2460

Railroad common carriers must maintain lighting between sunset and sunrise above switches and in areas where cars, locomotives, or employees frequently work on ground performing switching, inspection, and repair activities in railroad yards.

Lighting must conform to American Railway Engineering and Manufacturing Association (AREMA) guidelines, include at least one light source per two-yard track switch segment, and be displayed from at least 30 feet above the railroad yard lead-track area.

Damaged or nonoperative lighting must be replaced within 48 hours after damage is reported to the carrier; railroads are exempt from requirements during maintenance activities, derailments, heavy weather, and reasonable recovery periods.

Commissioner of Transportation may order railroads to construct or modify lighting to conform with AREMA standards if employees are exposed to hazards from inadequate lighting, with appeals available under chapter 14; violations are subject to penalties not exceeding $500 per violation.

Requirement applies only to Class One and Class Two railroad common carriers as classified by the Federal Railroad Administration; railroad yards with existing lighting as of July 1, 2014 are deemed compliant; requirement for "Made in Minnesota" solar photovoltaic modules applies to railroad projects involving solar installation.