Announcements

FTA Issues Special Directives on Risk-Based Inspection Program

Published on: October 23, 2022

Today, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) issued 31 Special Directives to require all State Safety Oversight Agencies (SSOAs) to develop and implement a risk-based inspection program of the Rail Fixed Guideway Public Transportation Systems (RFGPTS) they oversee in accordance with changes to FTA’s Public Transportation Safety Program as required by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. SSOAs must submit documentation to FTA to demonstrate their inspection programs address the requirements in accordance with their relevant Special Directive by October 21, 2024.

A risk-based inspection program uses qualitative and quantitative data analysis to inform ongoing inspection activities. Risk-based inspection programs are designed to prioritize inspections to address safety concerns and hazards associated with the highest levels of safety risk. A risk-based inspection program will require SSOAs to use data to inform their inspection practices, with the goal of addressing the highest risk elements and safety conditions.  ​

Links:
FTA Special Directives
State Safety Oversight (SSO) Program
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Safety