What key regulation governs conductor responsibilities in the U.S.?

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations are the primary governing body for conductor responsibilities in the U.S. These regulations establish safety standards and operational protocols that conductors must adhere to while performing their duties on freight and passenger trains. The FRA focuses on ensuring the safety of railroad operations, which includes defining the roles, responsibilities, and required qualifications of conductors.

This regulation includes guidelines on various aspects such as safety training, alcohol and drug use policies, and operating procedures, all of which are crucial for maintaining safe and efficient train operations. Compliance with FRA regulations helps ensure that conductors are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of rail transport safely.

While other options mention relevant organizations, they do not specifically govern conductor responsibilities in the same direct way that FRA regulations do. Department of Transportation guidelines generally cover broader transportation issues, National Safety Board policies deal more with accident investigations, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards focus primarily on workplace safety in general, rather than specifically addressing conductor duties within the railroad industry.