What can a Hi-Rail Inspection Comprise of?
What can a Hi-Rail Inspection Comprise of?
Here is a breakdown of what inspectors may look for when examining a truck during a hi-rail inspection—starting with what this specific inspection means.
A Hi-Rail inspection may include examining a rail truck's many different parts and components.
The truck is already made up of many elements alone, and with rail equipment attached, it must undergo a thorough inspection for safety purposes. Legally, all rail equipment must undergo a safety inspection to ensure all parts and elements meet the expected safety requirements before, during, and after traveling on the railroad.
What is a Hi-Rail Inspection?
A hi-rail inspection examines all hi-rail gear to ensure it meets the safety requirements. These inspections are required annually, with no more than 14 months in between each exam.
What is Inspected During a Hi-Rail Exam?
During a hi-rail examination, the inspector will analyze the tram, wheel wear, and gauge by measuring each component and making any necessary adjustments to ensure the vehicle can operate safely.
A hi-rail truck should be equipped with:
- An automatic change of direction alarm or backup alarm that provides an audible indicator lasting at or around three seconds
- An alarm distinguishable from other alarms within the vehicle
- An operable 360-degree intermittent warning signal mounted outside the vehicle
Other components and examinations include:
- Inspecting Hi-Rail assemblies for loose or missing parts
- Checking the warning light
- Checking the backup alarm
- Inspecting the guide wheels and their wear
- Checking the guide wheel gauge
- Confirming the annual inspection report is properly placed within the vehicle
What is a Hi-Rail Truck?
A hi-rail truck is labeled a dual-mode vehicle because it can operate on a railroad and on the road. These truck types usually have a set of steel wheels that are flanged to allow the vehicle to travel on the railways as well.
A hi-rail truck may consist of various system types. For instance, propulsion—meaning driving or pushing forward—can occur with a hi-rail truck equipped with roadway tires or a hydraulic system.
Often, the flanged wheels will free roll if powered by a directional control system, which is contingent upon the railroad construction. This system eliminates the need to steer the vehicle. Usually, steering locks are implemented to prevent derailment.
What Happens When a Hi-Rail Truck Doesn't Meet Safety Requirements?
When a hi-rail and its parts do not meet the necessary safety requirements due to faulty, poorly functioning, or missing parts, the inspector will require those parts to be repaired or replaced before the vehicle is allowed to operate.
They may also:
- Tag and date the issue
- Keep a record of it to be given to a designated official
Examples of conditional operation:
- A vehicle with poorly performing headlights may operate for up to 7 days during daylight only
- A vehicle with a non-working horn may operate for no more than 7 days
- A faulty change of direction or backup alarm system may allow temporary use for 7 days
- A defective fire extinguisher must be replaced within 7 days
A hi-rail vehicle is only allowed to operate with poorly performing parts for a limited time. All issues must be rectified promptly after discovery by an inspector.
The inspection ensures safety protocols are met by requiring railway vehicles, like pick-up trucks, to meet or exceed expectations.
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