Final_Order_No_35474.pdf

ORDER NO. 35474 1
Office of the Secretary
Service Date
August 1, 2022
BEFORE THE IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
IN THE MATTER OF COMMISSION
STAFF’S PETITION TO UPDATE THE
COMMISSION’S SAFETY AND ACCIDENT
RULES BY SPECIAL ORDER
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CASE NO. GNR-U-22-04
ORDER NO. 35474
On June 17, 2022, the Staff of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (“Staff”), petitioned
the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (“Commission”) for an order updating the Commission’s
Safety and Accident Rules. Staff requested the amended language become effective August 15,
2022.
On June 22, 2022, the Commission issued a Notice of Petition and Notice of Modified
Procedure establishing comment deadlines to all Title 61 regulated utilities. Order No. 35441. No
comments were submitted.
Having reviewed the record in this matter, we now issue this Order granting Staff’s Petition
to amend the Safety and Accident Reporting Rules.
BACKGROUND
On June 30, 2021, the Commission adopted Safety and Accident Reporting Rules
(previously IDAPA 31.11.01) by order instead of promulgating the rule chapters under the Idaho
Administrative Procedures Act. See Order No. 35095. Recently, Staff proposed amendments to
the “Fatality and Hospitalization Reporting” requirements in Safety and Accident Reporting Rule
301.01 to require regulated utilities to notify the Commission Secretary by telephone and email
within 24 hours of a fatality or hospitalization to modernize the reporting requirements.
PETITION
Staff petitioned the Commission to amend the “Fatality and Hospitalization Reporting”
requirements in Safety and Accident Reporting Rule 301.01 to require regulated utilities to notify
the Commission Secretary by telephone and email within 24 hours of a fatality or hospitalization.
COMMISSION FINDINGS AND DECISION
The Commission has statutory authority to promulgate safety regulations. Idaho Code §
61-515. These safety regulations may be promulgated “by general or special orders, regulations,
or otherwise….” Id. The scope of the Commission’s safety regulatory authority is broad: the

ORDER NO. 35474 2

Commission may “require every public utility to maintain and operate its line, plant, system,
equipment, apparatus and premises in such manner as to promote and safeguard the health and
safety of its employees, customers and the public….” Id.
The Commission has reviewed the record, including Staff’s Petition. Consistent with
authority to adopt safety regulations under Idaho Code § 61-515, we find it reasonable to approve
the proposed amendment to the Safety and Accident Reporting Rule 301.01. We believe that the
expectation to report fatalities by both telephone and email modernizes the fatality and
hospitalization reporting requirements for utilities regulated by this Commission and will reduce
instances of delayed notification to the Commission.
ORDER
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the amended “Fatality and Hospitalization Reporting”
requirements in Safety and Accident Reporting Rule 301.01 is approved, as petitioned for,
effective August 15, 2022. The amended “Fatality and Hospitalization Reporting Requirements”
are attached as Appendix A.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Commission Secretary shall post these rules prominently
on the Commission’s website to facilitate easy access for the public and utilities.
THIS IS A FINAL ORDER. Any person interested in this Order may petition for
reconsideration within twenty-one (21) days of the service date of this order about any matter
decided in this Order. Within seven (7) days after any person has petitioned for reconsideration,
any other person may cross-petition for reconsideration. Idaho Code § 61-626.

ORDER NO. 35474 3

DONE by order of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission at Boise, Idaho this 1st day of
August 2022.

ERIC ANDERSON, PRESIDENT

JOHN CHATBURN, COMMISSIONER

JOHN R. HAMMOND JR., COMMISSIONER
ATTEST:

Jan Noriyuki
Commission Secretary

I:\Legal\MULTI-UTILITY\GNR-U-22-04\orders\GNRU2204_final_cs.docx

ORDER NO. 35474 4

APPENDIX A
SAFETY AND ACCIDENT REPORTING RULES FOR UTILITIES
REGULATED BY THE IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION

These temporary rules are necessary to protect the public health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Idaho and
confer a benefit on its citizens. These previously approved and codified rules implement the duly enacted laws
of the state of Idaho, provide citizens with the detailed rules and standards for complying with those laws, and
assist in the orderly execution and enforcement of those laws. The expiration of these rules without due
consideration and processes would undermine the public health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Idaho and
deprive them of the benefit intended by these rules. Eliminate reference to current year of adoption, and d elete
reference to street address of 472 W. Washington.

000. LEGAL AUTHORITY (RULE 0).
These rules adopt by reference national safety codes and require the reporting of certain accidents under the general
authority of the Public Utilities Law, Chapters 1 through 7, Title 61, Idaho Code, and under the specific authority of
Sections 61-515 and 61-517, Idaho Code. (7-01-21)

001. TITLE AND SCOPE (RULE 1).
The name of this chapter is “Safety and Accident Reporting Rules for Utilities Regulated by the Idaho Public Utilities
Commission.” This chapter has the following scope: All electric and telephone corporations subject to the regulation
of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission are required to abide by the safety regulations adopted in Rule 101; all gas
and pipeline corporations are required to abide by the safety regulations adopted in Rules 201 through 203; and all
electrical, gas, pipeline, telephone, and water corporations are required to abide by the safety and accident reporting
requirements of Rules 301 and 302. (7-01-21)

002. WRITTEN INTERPRETATIONS – AGENCY GUIDELINES (RULE 2).
For rulemakings conducted before July 1, 1993, written interpretations to these rules in the form of explanatory
comments accompanying the order of proposed rulemaking and review of comments submitted in the order adopting
these rules are maintained in the files of the Secretary of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission and are available from
the office of the Commission Secretary. The Commission Secretary may be contacted in writing at the Idaho Public
Utilities Commission, PO Box 83720, Boise, Idaho 83720-0074, or may be reached by telephone at [phone].
For rulemakings conducted after July 1, 1993, written interpretations to these rules in the form of explanatory
comments accompanying the notice of proposed rulemaking that originally proposed the rules and review of comments
submitted in the rulemaking decision adopting these rules are published in the issues of the Idaho Administrative
Bulletin proposing or adopting the rules. (7-01-21)

003. ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS (RULE 3).
Any person requesting a waiver from any provision of these safety rules or accident reporting rules may petition the
Idaho Public Utilities Commission for a waiver pursuant to the Commission’s Rules of Procedure, IDAPA
31.01.01.000 et seq. (7-01-21)

004. PUBLIC RECORDS ACT COMPLIANCE (RULE 4).
Notes of telephone reports required by Rule 301 and written reports required by Rule 302 are public records subject
to inspection, examination and copying. Further investigative reports by the Commission or the Commission Staff are
investigatory records exempt from disclosure. See Sections 74-101(6) and 74-105(1), Idaho Code. Reports required
by these rules and the results of further investigations by the Commission are by statute prohibited from admission
into evidence in any action for damages based on or arising out of the loss of life or injury to the person or property.
See Section 61-517, Idaho Code. (7-01-21)

005. DEFINITIONS (RULE 5).

01. Utilities. The terms “electrical corporation,” “gas corporation,” “pipeline corporation,” “telephone
corporation,” and “water corporation” have the meanings given to them by statute in Chapter 1, Title 61, Idaho Code;
ORDER NO. 35474 5
orders of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission; and decisions of the Idaho Supreme Court construing these statutes.
(7-01-21)
02.Serious Damage. Damage to natural gas facilities caused by a natural disaster or terrorism that
results in a loss of or reduction in pipeline throughput or storage deliverability. (7-01-21)
03.Serious Interruption of Service. Interruptions of natural gas pipeline service to communities,
major governmental installations, and large industrial plants outside of communities or any other interruption that is
significant in the judgment of the natural gas pipeline. Interruptions of less than three (3) hours or planned maintenance
outages need not be reported. (7-01-21)
006.CITATION (RULE 6).
The official citation of these rules is IDAPA 31.11.01.000 et seq. For example, this rule is cited as IDAPA
31.11.01.006. In documents submitted to the Commission or issued by the Commission however, these rules may be
cited by their short title Safety and Accident Reporting Rules (SARR) and the parenthetical rule number. For example,
this rule may be cited as SARR 6. (7-01-21)
007.EFFECTIVE DATE – HISTORY OF RULES (RULE 7).
The predecessors to these rules (in particular earlier adoptions by reference of previous versions of safety codes) have
been adopted many times over the years. The history of these rules preceding the initiation of the publishing of the
Idaho Administrative Bulletin and the Idaho Administrative Code is available from the Commission Secretary.
(7-01-21)
008.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE – CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS (RULE 8).
Rules 101, 201, and 302 incorporate by reference various national safety codes and federal gas pipeline safety
regulations. Each applicable rule identifies the issuing entity for each code or regulation and indicates where the
incorporated materials may be obtained. Incorporated materials are also available for inspection and copying at the
offices of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission and the Idaho State Law Library. (7-01-21)
009.-- 100.(RESERVED)
ELECTRIC AND TELEPHONE UTILITIES
RULES 101 THROUGH 200
101.NATIONAL ELECTRICAL SAFETY CODE (NESC) (RULE 101).
The Commission adopts by reference the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) C2-2017 National Electrical
Safety Code (NESC), current edition. All electrical and telephone corporations subject to the Commission’s
jurisdiction are required to abide by applicable provisions of the NESC. (7-01-21)
102.-- 200.(RESERVED)
TRANSPORTATION OF NATURAL GAS BY PIPELINES --
LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS FACILITIES -- TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS
BY PIPELINE -- INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE --
INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE
RULES 201 THROUGH 300
201.FEDERAL NATURAL GAS SAFETY REGULATIONS (RULE 201).
The Commission incorporates by reference Part 260.9, Title 18 (April 1, 2017) and Parts 191, 192, 193, 195, and 199,
Title 49, the Code of Federal Regulations (October 1, 2017), except that federal accident reporting requirements
contained in the rules adopted by reference in Rule 201 are replaced for state reporting purposes by orders of the
Commission or rules of the Commission. These regulations are found in the Code of Federal Regulations, available
on the web from the U.S. Government Bookstore, http://bookstore.gpo.gov, and click on “Code of Federal
Regulations,” or by calling toll-free 866-512-1800. The incorporated CFR Parts are also available in electronic format
ORDER NO. 35474 6
at https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys. All gas and pipeline corporations subject to the Commission’s jurisdiction are required
to abide by applicable provisions of these federal regulations adopted by reference. (7-01-21)
202.-- 300.(RESERVED)
REPORTING OF ACCIDENTS AND SERVICE INTERRUPTIONS
(Rules 300 through 400)
301. IMMEDIATE REPORTING OF FATALITIES AND CERTAIN ACCIDENTS AND MAJOR NATURAL
GAS INTERRUPTIONS (RULE 301).
01. Fatality and Hospitalization Reporting. Whenever any employee of an electrical corporation, gas corporation,
pipeline corporation, telephone corporation, or water corporation or any member of the public dies or requires in-
patient hospitalization as a result of contact with or proximity to utility operating property, the utility must notify the
Commission Secretary of the fatality or hospitalization by email and telephone within 24 hours following discovery
of the fatality or reporting of the hospitalization. Reports must be made to the Commission Secretary at both (208)
334-0338 and [e-mail]. (08-15-22)
02.Operating Property -- Motor Vehicle Accident Exception
03.Major Service Interruptions or Damage to Natural Gas Pipelines
302.WRITTEN REPORTING OF ACCIDENTS AND NATURAL GAS INTERRUPTIONS (RULE 302).
01.Reporting Required
a.
b.
c.
02.Submitting the Written Report
ORDER NO. 35474 7
[e-mail]. (7-01-21)
03.Contents of Written Accident Report. There is no standard form for written reports prescribed by
this rule. Gas companies may file copies of reports submitted to federal regulators under 49 C.F.R. Part 191. All
reports submitted shall contain the following information: (7-01-21)
a.Name of person(s) involved in the accident;(7-01-21)
b.Status of persons involved in the accident (e.g., employees, children, contractors, etc.); (7-01-21)
c.Time of day, day of the week and month, and location of the accident or discovery of the accident;
(4-2-08)
d.Description of the accident and events leading up to the accident; and (7-01-21)
e.The company name, contact person, e-mail address and direct telephone number of the reporting
official. (3-29-10)
04.Contents of Written Report Involving Damage or Interruption to Natural Gas Facilities. All
written reports shall provide the following information: (7-01-21)
a.The location and cause of the service interruption or damage to natural gas pipeline or storage
facilities; (4-2-08)
b.The nature of the serious damage to pipeline or storage facility;(7-01-21)
c.The specific identification and location of any facilities damaged;(7-01-21)
d.The time the service interruption or damage to facilities occurred;(7-01-21)
e.The customers affected by the interruption of service or damage to facilities;(7-01-21)
f.A brief description of emergency actions taken to maintain service;(7-01-21)
g.An estimate of the time (if available) when pipeline throughput or storage deliverables are expected
to be restored; and (7-01-21)
h.The company name, contact person, e-mail address and direct telephone number of the reporting
official.
(7-01-21)
303.USE OF REPORTS (RULE 303).
The Commission may find that reports required by Rules 301 and 302 constitute an adequate investigation of the
accident reported, may direct the utility to provide further information to the Commission, or may direct its Staff or
others to conduct further investigations. Reports required by Rules 301 and 302 and the results of further investigations
by the Commission are by statute prohibited from admission into evidence in any action for damages based on or
arising out of the loss of life or injury to the person or property. See Section 61-517, Idaho Code.
(7-01-21)
304.-- 999.(RESERVED)

ORDER NO. 35474 8

31.71.01 – RAILROAD SAFETY RULES

000. LEGAL AUTHORITY (RULE 0).
These rules are adopted under the general authority of the Idaho Public Utilities Law, Chapters 1-7, Title 61, Idaho
Code, Chapter 3, Title 62, Idaho Code, and Chapter 12, Title 62, Idaho Code, and specific authority of Sections 61-
110, 61-111, 61-129, 61-302, 61-501, 61-507, 61-510, 61-512, 61-512, 61-515, 61-517, 62-301 through 62-308, and
62-1201 through 62-1207, Idaho Code. (7-1-93)

001. TITLE AND SCOPE (RULE 1).
The title of these rules is “Railroad Safety Rules.” The scope of these rules is that they determine railroad clearance
standards for all railroad track located in Idaho, and set safety, and accident reporting standards for railroads operating
in Idaho. (3-20-20)

002. WRITTEN INTERPRETATIONS – AGENCY GUIDELINES (RULE 2).
Written interpretations to these rules can be obtained from the Secretary of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission and
are available from the office of the Commission Secretary. (3-20-20)

003. ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS (RULE 3).
There are no administrative appeals under these rules. All requests for exemptions or waivers should be submitted
directly to the Commission in accordance with the Commission’s Rules of Procedure, IDAPA 31.01.01.000 et seq.
(7-1-93)

004. (RESERVED)

005. DEFINITION (RULE 5).

01. Height of a Freight Car. “Height of a freight car” is the distance between the top of rail and the
highest point of the car. (7-1-93)

02. Icing Platform. “Icing platform” includes structures used in performing the service of icing,
cooling, heating, ventilating and servicing of cars used in the handling of commodities requiring these services.
(7-1-93)

03. Overhead Clearance. “Overhead clearance” is that distance measured along a line which is
perpendicular to and joins a horizontal plane passing through the top of the highest rail and the lowest point of the
structure of obstruction overhead. (7-1-93)

04. Side Clearance. “Side clearance” is the shortest distance from centerline of track to a structure or
obstruction at the side of the track. (7-1-93)

05. Track Clearance. “Track clearance” is the shortest horizontal distance between the centerlines of
adjacent tracks. (7-1-93)

06. Width of a Freight Car. “Width of a freight car” is twice the distance from the center line of the
car to its extreme outside part. (7-1-93)

006. (RESERVED)

007. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE (RULE 007).
The Commission adopts, and incorporates by reference into these rules, the following national codes and standards as
electronically published:
(3-20-20)

01. Code of Federal Regulations. Rules 700 and 701 reference the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR),

ORDER NO. 35474 9

and specifically 49 CFR Parts 107, 171, 172, 173, 174, 178, 179, 180, 209, 215, and 225
(https://www.ecfr.gov.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B). The annual volumes of the CFR may be obtained on the web
from the U.S. Government Bookstore, http://bookstore.gpo.gov/ and click on “Code of Federal Regulations,” or by
calling toll-free 866-512-1800. Whenever a federal regulation is adopted by reference in theses rules, subsequent annal
recompilations are also adopted by reference. As theses Rules are revised by the appropriate federal agencies, the
Commission stipulates to incorporating the revised versions as they become current. (3-20-20)

02. National Electric Safety Code. Rules 52 and 312 reference the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) C2-2017 National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), 2017 Edition. The NESC is published by the
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc., and is available from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers, Inc., 3 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5997 and may be ordered by calling 1-800-678-IEEE.
(3-20-20)

008. WAIVERS (RULE 8).
The Commission may waive the requirements of these rules. To request a waiver, a carriers or other interested persons
will file an application that fully explains why the waiver is requested. A waiver is limited to the particular case
covered by the application. (3-20-20)

009. EMERGENCIES (RULE 9).
A restricted clearance under these rules does not apply to: (3-20-20)

a. Falsework, shoo-fly tracks, or other temporary emergency conditions caused by derailments, wash-
outs, slides, or other unavoidable accidents or disasters; (3-20-20)

b. Ballast, track material or construction material unloaded on and next to tracks for use there or in the
immediate vicinity; or (3-20-20)

c. Falsework or temporary construction necessary on any construction project. (3-20-20)

010. MODIFICATIONS (RULE 10).
The Commission may permit deviation from these rules when it finds complying with them is impractical,
unnecessary, or not in the public interest. (3-20-20)

011. -- 050. (RESERVED)

APPLICABILITY OF CLEARANCES
Rules 51 through 100

051. OVERHEAD CLEARANCE -- APPLICABILITY (RULE 51).
Overhead clearances authorized in these rules are applicable to tracks on which freight cars having a height from the
top of the rail to the highest point of the car of fifteen feet six inches (15’6”) or less are transported. In the case of cars
or loads exceeding fifteen feet six inches (15’6”), the overhead clearance provisions and excess height provisions of
Rules 501 through 502 and 601 through 607 must be complied with unless the railroad prohibits its personnel from
occupying the top of freight cars in train service. (7-1-93)

052. EXCEPTION TO OVERHEAD CLEARANCE RULES (RULE 52).
Overhead impairments will be granted without application or a hearing upon consent of the operating railroad,
provided that the NESC is not violated. Overhead impairments created by the railroad, not violating the NESC will
not require a variance from this Commission. Notice of the impairment and condition must be given to the Commission
by letter. (3-20-20)

053. SIDE CLEARANCES (RULE 53).
Side clearances authorized in these rules are applicable to tracks on which freight cars having an overall width not
greater than ten feet ten inches (10’10”) are transported. In the case of cars or loads exceeding ten feet ten inches
(10’10”), Rules 501 through 502 and 601 through 607 must be complied with. (7-1-93)

ORDER NO. 35474 10

054. -- 100. (RESERVED)

SPECIAL PROVISIONS
Rules 101 through 200

101. FACILITIES EXISTING BEFORE APRIL 1, 1955 (RULE 101).
Structures, operating appurtenances, pole lines, service facilities and track arrangements existing before April 1, 1955,
are exempt from these rules except as provided by these rules. (3-20-20)

102. CHANGES IN EXISTING TRACKS (RULE 102).
No change in track location or elevation may reduce existing vertical or horizontal structural clearance below the
minimums specified in these rules. (3-20-20)

103. REPAIRS TO EXISTING STRUCTURES (RULE 103).
No repair or maintenance work may be done on structures, operating appurtenances, pole lines, service facilities, or
track arrangements if the repair or maintenance work would reduce existing vertical or horizontal structural clearance
below the minimum specified in these rules. (3-20-20)

104. EXISTING STRUCTURES NOT COMPLYING WITH THESE RULES (RULE 104).
Where a structure existing before April 1, 1955, does not provide clearance equal to the minimum that is required by
these rules, the portion of the structure producing the impaired clearance may be repaired and maintained by partial
replacements. In no case shall the clearance available after April 1, 1955, be reduced. (7-1-93)

105. REPLACEMENT OF STRUCTURES NOT COMPLYING WITH THESE RULES (RULE 105).
When the owner replaces the part of a structure that violates the clearance standards of these rules, the replaced portion
must satisfy the clearance standards unless otherwise ordered by the Commission. (3-20-20)

106. EXISTING TRACKS (RULE 106).
Existing tracks of all kinds may be maintained by reballasting, resurfacing and replacing rails and ties. Where existing
yards are completely replaced or are partially replaced as a unit or section of a master plan, the arrangement must meet
the provisions of these rules both as to track centers and clearance to structures and other facilities being built in
connection with and as a part of such plan. Existing structures which are to remain and which do not provide the
minimum clearance with respect to the proposed new tracks must be approved by the Commission for exemption from
the terms of these rules. (7-1-93)

107. EXISTING TRACKS NOT MEETING CLEARANCE STANDARDS (RULE 107).
Tracks laid before April 1, 1955, having less vertical clearance than required by the rules may be maintained, but the
top of rail may not be raised without raising the overhead structure an equal distance to maintain the existing available
clearance. Tracks laid before April 1, 1955, having less horizontal clearance between them than required by these
rules for new construction, or having less horizontal clearance to structures than required by these rules, may be
maintained, but they may not be shifted horizontally to reduce either the existing track centers or the existing structural
clearance. (7-1-93)

108. ENGINE HOUSE AND SHOP FACILITIES (RULE 108).
The clearances in these rules do not apply to railroad’s engine houses, engine house facilities or shop buildings.
(3-20-20)

109. -- 200. (RESERVED)

OVERHEAD CLEARANCES
Rules 201 through 300

201. OVERHEAD CLEARANCE IN GENERAL (RULE 201).
The allowable clearances are: (7-1-93)

ORDER NO. 35474 11

01. Begun, Installed or Constructed After April 1, 1955. For structures, operating appurtenances,
pole lines, service facilities and track arrangements begun, installed or constructed after April 1, 1955, and before
September 1, 1980 twenty-two feet six inches (22’6”). (7-1-93)

02. Begun, Installed or Constructed After September 1, 1980. For structures, operating
appurtenances, pole lines, service facilities and track arrangements begun, installed or constructed after September 1,
1980, the vertical clearance required by the owner of the railroad tracks or twenty-two feet six inches (22’6”),
whichever is greater. (4-5-00)

03. Structures on Main Lines. For structures on main lines identified by railroad for possible
electrification: (7-1-93)

a. At twenty-five (25) kilovolts twenty-four feet three inches (24’3”); or (7-1-93)

b. At fifty (50) kilovolts twenty-six (26’) feet. (7-1-93)

202. OVERHEAD CLEARANCE IN BUILDINGS (RULE 202).
Overhead clearances in buildings must be at least eighteen (18’) feet. The overhead clearance inside an entirely
enclosed building may be reduced to eighteen (18’) feet with respect to tracks ending within the building or in the
immediate plant area if the track extends through an enclosed building. When an overhead clearance in the building
is less than twenty-two feet six inches (22’6”), all cars, locomotives or other equipment will stop before entering the
building. (3-20-20)

203. OVERHEAD CLEARANCE IN TUNNELS AND BRIDGES (RULE 203).
Minimum overhead clearance in tunnels and through bridges may be decreased to the extent defined by the half-
circumference of a circle having a radius of eight (8’) feet and tangent to a horizontal line twenty-two feet six inches
(22’6”) above top of rail at a point directly above the centerline of track. (7-1-93)

204. DECREASES IN OVERHEAD CLEARANCES PRESCRIBED IN RULE 201 (RULE 204).
Minimum overhead clearance as prescribed in Rule 201 may be decreased to the extent defined by the half-
circumference of a circle having a radius of eight feet six inches (8’6”) and tangent to a horizontal line at the height
prescribed by Rule 201 above the top of rail at a point directly over the centerline of track. (7-1-93)

205. -- 300. (RESERVED)

SIDE CLEARANCES
Rules 301 through 400

301. SIDE CLEARANCE IN GENERAL (RULE 301).
The general rule is that side clearances must be at least eight feet six inches (8’6”). To further reduce operational
hazards, it is recommended that, wherever practicable, all posts, pipes, warning signals and other small obstructions
be given a side clearance of ten (10’) feet. (7-1-93)

302. SIDE CLEARANCE AT PLATFORMS (RULE 302).

01. Eight Inches. Eight (8”) inches or less above top of rail -- four feet eight inches (4’8”). (7-1-93)

02. Four Feet. Four (4’) feet or less above top of rail -- seven feet three inches (7’3”). (7-1-93)

03. Four Feet Six Inches. Four feet six inches (4’6”) or less above top of rail when used principally for
loading or unloading refrigerator cars if constructed after April 1, 1955, but before September 1, 1980 -- eight (8) feet,
if constructed after September 1, 1980 -- eight feet six inches (8’6”). (7-1-93)

04. Platforms. Platforms complying with Subsection 302.01 of this rule may be combined with those

ORDER NO. 35474 12

complying with Subsections 302.02 and 302.03, provided that the lower platform presents a level surface from a point
not more than four feet eight inches (4’8”) from centerline of track to the face of the wall of the platform with which
it is combined. No other combinations will be permitted. (7-1-93)

303. ICING PLATFORMS AND SUPPORTS (RULE 303).
The minimum side clearance for icing platforms and supports is six feet eight inches (6’8”). The platform’s six feet
eight inch (6’8”) side clearance is measured from eave height of car. The platform’s supports must provide clearance
of eight (8’) feet if constructed after April 1, 1955, but before September 1, 1980, and eight feet six inches (8’6”) if
constructed after September 1, 1980. (3-20-20)

304. PLATFORMS OTHER THAN ABOVE (RULE 304).
The general rule is that platforms not listed in earlier rules must have side clearance of at least eight feet six inches
(8’6”). Retractable platforms, either sliding or hinged, which are attached to a permanent structure must be so
constructed that, when retracted or in nonworking position and firmly secured or anchored, the resulting clearance
shall not be less than the clearances provided in these rules. (7-1-93)

305. EXTENSION OF EXISTING PLATFORMS (RULE 305).
Platforms which were constructed at prevailing clearances or clearances then authorized by this Commission’s rules
may be extended at existing clearances. (7-1-93)

306. SIDE CLEARANCE -- BRIDGES AND TUNNELS (RULE 306).
The general rule is that side clearances for bridges and tunnels must be at least eight (8’) feet. (7-1-93)

307. BRIDGES AND TUNNELS -- UPPER SECTION (RULE 307).
Side clearance in through bridges and tunnels may be decreased to the extent defined by the half circumference of a
circle having a radius of eight (8’) feet and tangent to a horizontal line twenty-two feet six inches (22’6”) above top
of rail directly above centerline of track. See Rule 203. (7-1-93)

308. BRIDGES -- LOWER SECTION AND STRUCTURES FOUR FEET HIGH OR LESS -- GUARDS
AND CATTLE CHUTES -- HAND RAILS ON BRIDGES AND TRESTLES -- OIL COLUMNS -- WATER
BARRELS -- WATER COLUMNS (RULE 308).
Through bridges supporting track affected, hand rails, water barrels and refuge platforms on bridges and trestles, water
columns, oil columns, block signals, cattle guards and cattle chutes, or portions thereof, four (4’) feet or less above
top of rail, may have clearances decreased to the extent defined by a line extending diagonally upward from a point
level with the top of rail and five (5’) feet distance laterally from centerline of track to a point four (4) feet above top
of rail and eight (8’) feet distant laterally from centerline of track: Provided that the minimum clearance for hand rails
and water barrels shall be seven feet six inches (7’6”) and the minimum clearance for fences of cattle guards shall be
five feet nine inches (5’9”). Unless previously approved, the clearances authorized in this rule, except as provided for
hand rails and water barrels, are not permitted on through bridges where the work of trainmen or yardmen requires
them to be upon the decks of such bridges for the purpose of coupling or uncoupling cars in the performance if
switching service on a switching lead. (7-1-93)

309. SIDE CLEARANCE INTERLOCKING MECHANISM SWITCH BOXES, ETC. (RULE 309).
The minimum side clearance for interlocking mechanism switch boxes, etc., is three (3’) feet. Switch boxes, switch
operating mechanism necessary for the control and operation of signals and interlocks projecting four (4”) inches or
less above top of rail. (7-1-93)

310. SIDE CLEARANCE -- MAIL CRANES AND TRAIN ORDER STANDS WHEN NOT IN
OPERATIVE POSITION (RULE 310).
The minimum side clearance for mail cranes and train order stands when not in operative condition is eight feet six
inches (8’6”). (7-1-93)

311. SIDE CLEARANCE -- POLES SUPPORTING TROLLEY CONTACT (RULE 311).
The minimum side clearance for poles with conductors supplying motive power to track affected--of bracket
construction is eight feet three inches (8’3”). (7-1-93)

ORDER NO. 35474 13

312. SIDE CLEARANCE -- POLES OTHER THAN TROLLEY POLES (RULE 312).
The minimum side clearance for poles besides trolley poles is eight feet six inches (8’6”). The NESC governs the side
clearance for poles besides trolley poles that are described in the NESC. (3-20-20)

313. SIDE CLEARANCE SIGNALS AND SWITCH STANDS THREE FEET HIGH OR LESS ABOVE
THE TOP OF THE RAIL (RULE 313).
The minimum height of signals and switch stands when located between tracks where not practicable to provide
clearances otherwise prescribed in these rules is at least six (6’) feet. (7-1-93)

314. SIDE CLEARANCE -- SIGNALS AND SWITCH STANDS OTHER THAN ABOVE (RULE 314).
The minimum side clearance for signals and switch stands other than above is at least eight (8’) feet. (7-1-93)

315. SIDE CLEARANCE ON CURVED TRACK (RULE 315).
Side clearances on all structures adjacent to curved track shall be increased as necessary to give the equivalent of
tangent track clearances. As a general rule, the side clearance on curved track should be increased one and one-half
inches (1 1/2”) for each degree of curvature. (7-1-93)

316. SIDE CLEARANCES -- MATERIAL OR MERCHANDISE ADJACENT TO TRACKS (RULE 316).
No merchandise, material or other articles shall be placed or stored on the ground or platforms adjacent to any track
at a distance less than eight feet six inches (8’6”) from the centerline of track, except in cases of maintenance or
emergency when such material is to be used within a reasonable period of time or where local conditions make
compliance with this rule impossible. (7-1-93)

317. -- 400. (RESERVED)

TRACK CLEARANCES
Rules 401 through 500

401. TRACK CLEARANCES -- IN GENERAL (RULE 401).
The minimum distance between the center line of parallel standard gauge railroad tracks, which are used or proposed
to be used for transporting cars, engines, motors or like equipment, shall be fourteen (14’) feet, except as otherwise
prescribed in these rules. (7-1-93)

402. TRACK CLEARANCES -- MAIN AND SUBSIDIARY TRACKS (RULE 402).
The centerline of any standard gauge track, except a main track or a passing track, parallel and adjacent to a main
track or a passing track shall be at least fifteen (15’) feet from the centerline of such main track or passing track;
provided, however, that where a passing track is adjacent to and at least fifteen (15’) feet distant from the main track,
any other track may be constructed adjacent to such passing track width clearance prescribed in Rule 401. (7-1-93)

403. TRACK CLEARANCES -- PARALLEL TEAM, HOUSE OR INDUSTRY TRACKS (RULE 403).
Minimum clearances between centerlines of parallel team, house or industry tracks shall be thirteen (13’) feet.
(7-1-93)

404. TRACK CLEARANCES -- PARALLEL LADDER OR LADDER AND OTHER TRACK (RULE
404).
The centerline of any standard gauge ladder track, constructed parallel to any other track, shall have a clearance of not
less than twenty (20’) feet from the centerline of such other track. (7-1-93)

405. TRACK CLEARANCES -- EXISTING TRACKS (RULE 405).
Existing tracks laid at prevailing clearances then authorized by this Commission’s rules may be extended at these
clearances. (7-1-93)

406. -- 500. (RESERVED)

ORDER NO. 35474 14

MARKING OF CARS
Rules 501 through 600

501. CARS EXCEEDING FIFTEEN FEET SIX INCHES IN HEIGHT (RULE 501).
Each car of a height exceeding fifteen feet six inches (15’6”) from top of rail to the highest point of the car, the
movement of which is authorized by these rules, shall be marked, stenciled or placarded, and such markings
maintained in a legible condition to read:

This Car
EXCESS
HEIGHT

The words “EXCESS HEIGHT” must occupy the greater portion of a rectangular space seven by ten inches
(7” x 10”) enclosed within a three-quarter inch (3/4”) solid border. The markings required shall be made permanent
on owned cars before their use. Lettering and border of signs shall be of colors contrasting to that of the car body. All
such required marking and placarding shall be placed on the side adjacent to the ladder or handholds near the floor
line of the car at each of the four (4) corners. (7-1-93)

502. CARS EXCEEDING TEN FEET TEN INCHES IN WIDTH (RULE 502).
Each car of a width exceeding ten feet ten inches (10’10”), the movement of which is authorized by these rules, shall
be marked, stenciled or placarded, and such markings maintained in a legible condition to read:

This Car
EXCESS
WIDTH

The words “EXCESS WIDTH” must occupy the greater portion of a rectangular space seven by ten inches
(7” x 10”) enclosed within a three-quarter inch (3/4”) solid border. The markings required shall be made permanent
on owned cars before their use. Lettering and border of signs shall be of colors contrasting to that of the car body. All
such required marking and placarding shall be placed on the side or end adjacent to the ladder or handholds near the
floor line of the car at each of the four (4) corners. (7-1-93)

503. -- 600. (RESERVED)

OPERATIONS OF EXCESS DIMENSION LOADS
Rules 601 through 700

601. CARS CONTAINING LADING IN EXCESS OF FIFTEEN FEET SIX INCHES HIGH AND/OR
FIVE FEET FIVE INCHES FROM CENTERLINE OF CAR (RULE 601).
Each open-top car containing lading of height exceeding fifteen feet six inches (15’6”) above top of rail, or which
extends laterally more than five feet five inches (5’5”) from the centerline of the car, the movement of which is
authorized by these rules, shall be marked, stenciled or placarded, and such marking maintained in a legible condition
to read:
This car
EXCESS
EXCESS
HEIGHT
and/or This car
EXCESS
EXCESS
WIDTH

The words “EXCESS HEIGHT” and/or “EXCESS WIDTH” must occupy the greater portion of a space seven
by ten inches (7” x 10”) enclosed within a three-quarter inch (3/4”) solid border. Letters and border shall be of colors
contrasting to the car body. These required markings and placarding shall be placed on the side or end adjacent to the
ladder or handholds near the floor line of the car at each of the four (4) corners where practicable, and in addition one
of these signs shall be placed on each side of the load in a conspicuous position before the car is used.

ORDER NO. 35474 15

(7-1-93)

602. CARS CONTAINING LADING WHICH EXTENDS LATERALLY IN EXCESS OF FIVE FEET
FIVE INCHES (RULE 602).
The movement of open-top cars containing lading which extends laterally in excess of five feet five inches (5’5”) is
authorized if the lading is of such a nature that it cannot practically be reduced in dimensions. (7-1-93)

603. MOVEMENT AND NOTICE OF EXCESS HEIGHT AND/OR EXCESS WIDTH CARS AND
LOADS (RULE 603).
The movement of all open-top cars having lading in excess of fifteen feet six (15’6”) inches in height, or which extends
laterally in excess of five feet five inches (5’5”) from centerline of car, will be authorized by written notice to the train
crew stating the total number of such cars, and specifying that no member of the train crew will ride on top of such
high car or the side of any such wide car. (7-1-93)

604. WRITTEN NOTICE OF EXCESS HEIGHT OR EXCESS WIDTH RULE 604).
A written notice shall be delivered to every train containing any car, the lading of which extends laterally in excess of
five feet five inches (5’5”) from the centerline of the car or which is in excess of fifteen feet six inches (15’6”) in
height above top of rails, informing the crew of the train that the train includes such car or cars, stating the total number
of these cars and advising that no member of the train crew will ride on the side of any such wide car or the top of any
such high car. (7-1-93)

605. NOTICE TO YARD SUPERVISORS (RULE 605).
Yard supervisors shall be notified sufficiently in advance of the arrival of such wide loads as described in Rule 603 as
to enable them to take necessary precautions to safeguard employees in yard. (7-1-93)

606. LOADS WHICH CANNOT BE PASSED OVER BY EMPLOYEES (RULE 606).
Open-top cars containing lading having an overall height in excess of fifteen feet six inches (15’6”) above top of rail
or a width which extends laterally in excess of five feet five inches (5’5”), if otherwise in compliance with these
requirements, and the nature of which precludes the possibility of employees passing over the cars, are exempt from
the provisions of Rules 603, 604 and 605, but written notice must be given to all members of the train crew informing
them of the presence of such loads. (7-1-93)

607. EXEMPTIONS (RULE 607).
The common carrier railroads are authorized to move excess height loads and excess width loads, as described in Rule
601, over roads or portions thereof, without complying with the provisions of Rule 601, provided that clearances
equivalent to the minimum prescribed by these rules for cars having a height of fifteen feet six inches (15’6”) and
width of ten feet ten inches (10’10”) are maintained. (7-1-93)

608. -- 700. (RESERVED)

701. TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL BY RAIL (RULE 701).

01. Hazardous Material Defined. “Hazardous material” means a substance or material which has been
determined by the United States Secretary of Transportation to be capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health,
safety, and property when transported in commerce, and which has been so designated by the Secretary of
Transportation. The term includes hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, marine pollutants, elevated temperature
materials as defined in 49 C.F.R. Section 171.8, materials designated as hazardous under the provisions of 49 C.F.R.
Section 172.101, and materials that meet the defining criteria for hazardous classes and divisions in 49 C.F.R. Part
173. (3-20-20)

02. Adoption of Federal Safety Regulations. The Commission hereby adopts by reference 49 C.F.R.
Parts 107, 171, 172, 173, 174, 178, 179, and 180 (October 1, 2014). All customers offering hazardous materials for
shipment by rail and all railroads operating in Idaho that transport hazardous materials listed in, defined by, or
regulated by the adopted federal safety regulations must comply with 49 C.F.R. Parts 107, 171, 172, 173, 174, 178,
179 and 180. (3-20-20)

ORDER NO. 35474 16

03. Recognition of Federal Exemptions. Whenever a railroad or shipper has applied to a federal
agency and has been granted an exemption from the transportation or packaging requirements of the federal safety
regulations adopted in Subsection 103.02, the federal exemption will also be recognized under these rules. The
Commission shall not administer a program to duplicate consideration or approval of federal exemptions on a state
level. (3-20-20)

702. REPORTING OF RAILROAD ACCIDENTS (RULE 702).
The Commission incorporates by reference 49 C.F.R. Part 225 (October 1, 2014). Pursuant to 49 C.F.R. 225.1, all
railroads that are required to file a copy of any accident/incident report with the Federal Railroad Administration shall
also file a copy of such report with the Commission Secretary for accidents or incidents occurring in Idaho. Copies of
accident or incident reports will be mailed to: the Commission Secretary. (3-20-20)

703. -- 999. (RESERVED)