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WMSC issues finding: about 192 roadway workers flagged as improperly qualified; MetroRail must propose corrective action plan
Summary
As part of a track structures and roadway worker protection audit, the WMSC identified roughly 192 level‑4 roadway worker-in-charge records that did not meet MetroRail’s qualification requirements and issued a finding requiring MetroRail to retest, requalify and fix recordkeeping deficiencies.
The Washington Metrorail Safety Commission told commissioners Sept. 16 that an inspection of MetroRail training and qualification records found roughly 192 personnel previously identified as “level 4 qualified roadway workers in charge” who do not meet MetroRail’s written qualification requirements.
WMSC staff said the discrepancy was discovered during a July records inspection performed as part of the track structures and roadway worker protection audit and that it presents a safety deficiency because MetroRail “has no other basis for assuring that its roadway workers meet its own written qualification requirements.” The WMSC issued a standalone finding on Sept. 4 to allow MetroRail to begin addressing the issue ahead of the full audit report.
John (audit staff) described several nonconformances supporting the finding: manager override of course scores, incorrect or missing test score calculations, trainees who failed but were passed, on‑the‑job training not performed as required, incomplete retest forms, incomplete checklists and poor file organization. The WMSC reported that the 192 personnel are a subset of approximately 1,200 level‑4 personnel tracked in MetroRail’s records, with 130 staff having only completed initial training and 62 having only recorded refresher or requalification training that was insufficient.
Required corrective actions and interim measures
The finding requires MetroRail to propose a corrective action plan (CAP) that must, among other items, fully document the record review for all currently identified level‑4 personnel, retest and requalify those who do not meet requirements, ensure trainers are properly trained and qualified to administer training and qualifications, evaluate and revise recordkeeping processes and institute interim mitigations. Interim mitigations described by staff include removing affected workers from level‑4 duties or instituting significant direct oversight and monitoring while staff perform those duties.
Timeline and follow-up
MetroRail submitted an initial CAP on Aug. 27 (before issuance of the finding), provided a revised CAP on Sept. 8, and the WMSC provided feedback on Sept. 12. Staff reported they received another revised CAP version late on Sept. 15 and will review and provide additional feedback. The WMSC said it will continue expedited engagement with MetroRail to verify interim mitigations and the plan to retest and requalify affected personnel.
Ending
The WMSC told commissioners it appreciates MetroRail’s prompt engagement but emphasized the corrective steps are necessary because the level‑4 qualification is the primary mitigation for hazards posed by train movements and the electrified third rail when workers access the right‑of‑way.
