# Labor and Employment (GLE)

## Title 5.5. Railroad Safety and Health

### Subtitle 1

#### Section 5.5-110

(a) A railroad company may not transport an employee to or from work on a caboose or locomotive unless the railroad company provides a fixed seat with a back support for the employee.

(b) To protect the health and safety of employees, a railroad company shall:

  (1) install and maintain water or chemical toilet facilities on each caboose used for service beyond a 15-mile radius from a point of dispatchment within the State for use by employees, unless the caboose is a temporary substitute for one regularly used for the service; and

  (2) enclose all toilet fixtures, within the caboose, in a separate compartment of sufficient dimensions that is ventilated properly.

(c)

  (1) This subsection does not apply to any caboose:

    (i) operated on tracks of less than standard gauge;

    (ii) normally used only during daylight hours;

    (iii) operated only within a 20-mile radius from point of dispatchment; or

    (iv) temporarily substituted for a regular caboose.

  (2) To protect the health and safety of employees, the Commissioner shall require each railroad company to install and maintain:

    (i) two or more electric marker lights on the rear of each caboose in service; and

    (ii) one electric light for clerical work within each caboose in service, for which the railroad company shall determine the source of electricity and type of appliance.

(d) A railroad company may not have a common towel or common drinking cup available for use on property of the railroad company.

(e)

  (1) In this section, "railroad train" has the meaning stated in Sec. 21-101 of the Transportation Article.

  (2)

    (i) This subsection applies to a railroad train used in connection with the movement of railroad freight that shares the same rail corridor as a high-speed passenger or commuter train.

    (ii) This subsection does not apply to a railroad train used in connection with the movement of railroad freight involving:

      (1) hostler service; or

      (2) utility employees in yard service.

  (3) A railroad train used in connection with the movement of railroad freight may not be operated in the State unless the railroad train has a crew of at least two individuals.

  (4)

    (i) Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a person who willfully violates this subsection is subject to a civil penalty assessed by the Commissioner of:

      (1) except as provided in item 2 of this subparagraph, a fine not to exceed $10,000; or

      (2) if the person previously committed a willful violation within the immediately preceding 3 years, a fine not to exceed $25,000.

    (ii) A railroad company shall be solely responsible for the actions of the agents or employees of the railroad company that violate this subsection.

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Md. Code Ann., Lab. & Empl. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)