By Railfan & Railroad Staff

WASHINGTON — The Federal Railroad Administration is ordering railroaders across the country to mask up. Late last week, the FRA issued an emergency order requiring the use of face masks to combat the spread of COVID-19. The order went into effect on March 1. 

While some railroads, including Amtrak, were already asking employees to wear masks when social distancing was not possible, FRA officials say the policies have been inconsistent. Officials say the emergency order was necessary because of new variants of the virus that have been found to be more transmittable than previous versions. 

Railroads whose employees do not wear masks could be fined up to $118,826 for each day the violation continues.

“America’s railroad transportation system is essential—not only for public health but also for America’s economy and other bedrocks of American life,” the order states. “Railroads carry life-saving medical supplies and medical providers into and across the nation to our hospitals, nursing homes, and physicians’ offices. Trains bring food and other essentials to our communities and bring America’s workforce to their jobs. Requiring mask use on our railroads will protect railroad employees.”

Exceptions to the rule will be made for those who cannot wear a mask for long periods of time due to disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.