PATT 1.2.3

The Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) 49 CFR Part 219, Control of Alcohol and Drug Use, establishes essential requirements for post-accident testing under specific conditions. This application serves as a vital resource for railroads and their contractors in identifying qualifying accidents that mandate compliance with Part 219 Subpart C testing protocols. The FRA’s post-accident testing program has been fundamental to the agency's drug and alcohol testing initiatives since its inception in 1985, preceding the implementation of most other aspects of Part 219 and the USDOT’s testing procedures outlined in 49 CFR Part 40.

Part 219 Subpart C delineates the thresholds for train accidents and incidents that necessitate testing. This protocol is crucial for FRA accident investigators in assessing whether the consumption of drugs or alcohol by involved railroad employees or contractors may have influenced the causation or severity of an accident. The overarching objective is to ensure that all regulated employers—be they railroads or contractors—are adequately prepared to execute post-accident testing swiftly following a rule-triggering event. Such decisions must be made promptly, based on reasonable inquiries and sound judgment from an on-site supervisor.

Furthermore, blood and urine samples from surviving employees or contractors need to be collected within four (4) hours post-accident using the appropriate supplies and documentation. Additionally, collections from fatally injured individuals should be conducted as soon as possible. This application also aims to safeguard employees' rights to privacy, mitigating risks associated with erroneous testing practices.