February 2024
Rule 15. When possible avoid walking through escaping steam.
The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, Safety Rules, Effective May 1, 1920
January 2024
S. 94. A train which overtakes another train so disabled that it cannot proceed, may pass it, if practicable, proceed to the next open telegraph office, and there report to the Train Despatcher.
Grand Trunk Railway System, Operating Rules and General Regulations, effective June 18, 1911
NOTE: We are aware the word “Despatcher” appears to be incorrectly spelled. The rule is printed the same way that it appears in the original rule book.
December 2023
Handling of United States Mail
Rule 530. When passenger trains handling mail cars are run in two or more sections, mail cars will, if practicable, be placed in the first section.
Northern Pacific Railway Company, Rules and Regulations Operating Department, Effective June 1, 1899.
November 2023
Air Brakes
Rule 552. Before commencing the descent of steep grades and approaching locations where failure of brakes would be attended with hazard, Engineers must make sufficient application to ascertain that brakes are in operating condition.
Northern Pacific Railway Company, Rules and Regulations Operating Department, Effective June 1, 1899.
October 2023
Rule 16. Avoid dangling wires, as they may be charged with electricity. If necessary to lift a broken wire, use some non-conducting substance—such as a dry board.
The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, Safety Rules, Effective May 1, 1920–
September 2023
Movement of Trains
Rule 301. Freight trains authorized to carry passengers will be designated by bulletin, or by special order of Superintendent.
Northern Pacific Railway Company, Rules and Regulations Operating Department, Effective June 1, 1899.
August 2023
Movement of Trains
Rule 315. Whenever train or engine is run over any portion of road without a Conductor, the Engineer will be regarded and act as both Engineer and Conductor and will make and return the Conductor’s running reports.
Northern Pacific Railway Company, Rules and Regulations Operating Department, Effective June 1, 1899.
July 2023
Safety Precautions and Casualties
Rule 68. In case of extraordinary storms or high water, trains must be brought to a stop and a man sent to examine bridges, trestles, culverts, or other places liable to damage, before proceeding. Conductors and Engineers will make careful inquiry at all stopping places and, if necessary, make extra stops to ascertain extent and severity of storms, protecting themselves as provided by the rules and taking no risks. When in doubt as to safety, train will be placed upon a siding until it is ascertained it is safe to proceed.
Northern Pacific Railway Company, Rules and Regulations Operating Department, Effective June 1, 1899.
June 2023
Requirements for Employment
Rule 44. No person defective in hearing, sight or color perception shall be employed in any branch of the service involving the use of signals or the movement of trains and engines. All persons thus employed will be required to pass examination by one of the authorized specialists or examiners as to hearing, sight, and ability to distinguish colors. Reexamination will be required as follows:
a. Once in every four years.
b. After acute affection of the eyes or eyelids, or of the ears.
c. After any protracted or serious illness, on the recommendation of a Beneficial Association Surgeon.
d. When deemed necessary by the Superintendent.
Northern Pacific Railway Company, Rules and Regulations Operating Department, Effective June 1, 1899.
May 2023
Rule 11. No person will be permitted to ride on the pilot, pilot beam, or on the step attached to the pilot or pilot beam of a locomotive, except when their duties actually require them to do so.
The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, Safety Rules, Effective May 1, 1920