Extension without change of a currently approved collection
No
Regular
07/30/2024
table that charts list comparision
Requested
Previously Approved
36 Months From Approved
07/31/2024
219,123
222,386
46,608
49,761
1,053,500
1,070,591
This information collection is used by FRA to monitor regulatory compliance with 49 CFR Part 242. Specifically, FRA uses the collection of information to ensure that railroads adopt and implement a formal program for certifying conductors so that only qualified persons serve as railroad conductors and passenger conductors in order to enhance the safety of daily railroad operations. The information collected will also be used to verify that railroads establish a formal program for training prospective and experienced conductors in order to determine that these individuals are competent before permitting them to serve in these safety-sensitive positions.
This collection of information is mandatory and it involves both reporting and recordkeeping requirements. The collection frequency of the required information occurs on an annual basis as well as an occasional basis.
This is a extension without change (with changes in estimates) to a currently approved information collection request (ICR). The current OMB inventory for this ICR shows a total burden of 49,761 hours and 222,386 responses, while the requesting inventory estimates a total burden of 46,608 hours and 219,123 responses.
Overall, the burden for this submission has decreased by 3,153 hours and 3,263 responses. The decrease in burden is a result of the reduced amount of time per response for § 242.115(e) certification review for prior alcohol/drug conduct. The average time reduced from 10 minutes to five (5) minutes providing a more accurate analysis of the time needed to complete the review. The SMEs determined that §§242.115(e)(4) and 242.405 did not create any additional burden under the PRA and were removed. §242.113 was removed as it was determined that the estimated paperwork burden for this requirement is included under §242.117; and §242.407(b)(5) was also removed as it is covered under §242.407(c). Additionally, FRA determined that fewer employees were changing employers, therefore, reducing the number of prior safety records being reviewed.
FRA also found that the associated burdens related to substance abuse and medical conditions have decreased as fewer employees have medical conditions that require further evaluation or positive drug and alcohol tests. As a result of this, the number of certification denials, due to medical conditions and substance abuse has also decreased.
$331,574
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Kevin Lewis 918 557-0651
Reginfo record details
No
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.
July 30, 2024, FR Notice (30-Day).pdf
2130-0596_Conductor Certification SJ Final.docx
49 CFR 242.doc
Process for revoking certification (§ 242.407)