Re: Georgetown Loop, Now this:

"You said that he was hired as an engineer, conductor, fireman and carman. Don't you think that you're slicing the time of one employee a bit thin?"

At our railroad, we have several members qualified in all crew positions. That does not mean that work all positions at the same time. They work where needed. I suspect that is what he meant. And, they do not work more than 12 hours without time off of at least 8 hours per FRA rules. I do not know the work rules at GTL.

"I also know that the Loop is insular and can thumb its nose at the FRA regs if it wishes."

I may be wrong on this, but I think the FRA is charged with overseeing insular if they cross public roads as well as non-insular. This does not preclude the FRA from getting involved if they so choose on any railroad. Especially if there are safety considerations. Remember lasts season's derailment at GTL? The FRA came out to inspect on that incident.

JMO,
dan