Which organization is responsible for setting safety regulations in rail operations?

The organization that is responsible for setting safety regulations in rail operations is the Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT develops and enforces regulations that ensure safe transportation practices across all modes of transport, including railroads. Within the DOT, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) specifically oversees railroad safety and compliance with federal regulations. These regulations are crucial in maintaining safety standards that protect both railroad workers and the public.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) focuses on workplace safety for employees in various industries, including rail, but it does not directly set regulations governing rail operations as a whole. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) deals with environmental regulations, including those that affect transportation but does not focus on rail safety per se. The NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) investigates transportation accidents and makes recommendations but does not create regulations. Understanding the role of these different organizations helps clarify why the DOT is the authoritative body for rail safety regulations.