When working over road crossings at grade, how long should crossings not be blocked?

When working over road crossings at grade, the established guideline is that crossings should not be blocked for more than 10 minutes. This rule is in place to ensure that vehicular traffic can flow smoothly and safely, minimizing delays for road users and preventing potential accidents. Blocking a crossing for an extended period could create unsafe situations where vehicles gather on the tracks, increasing the risk of collisions or disruptive traffic buildup.

It's crucial for conductors and railroad employees to adhere to this 10-minute limit, not only to comply with regulations but also to maintain good relationships with the communities they serve. This practice emphasizes the responsibility of the railroad to be considerate of road users while also allowing for operational efficiency. The other time frames mentioned would either be excessively long or too brief to accommodate typical operations efficiently while maintaining public safety.