(a) The operating practices compliance inspector is required, at a minimum, to be able to conduct independent inspections for the purpose of determining compliance with the requirements of the following:

(1) Operating Rules—blue flag (49 CFR part 218);

(2) Control of Alcohol and Drug Use (49 CFR part 219);

(3) Rear End Marking Device Regulations (49 CFR part 221);

(4) Railroad accidents/incidents: reports classification and investigations (49 CFR part 225); and

(5) Hours of Service Act (45 U.S.C. 61-64b) and implementing regulations (49 CFR part 228); to make reports of those inspections and to recommend the institution of enforcement actions when appropriate to promote compliance.

(b) The operating practices compliance inspector is required, at a minimum, to have at least two years of recent experience in developing or administering railroad operating rules. Successful completion of the apprentice training program may be substituted for the two year experience requirement.

(c) The compliance inspector shall demonstrate the following specific qualifications.

(1) A basic knowledge of railroad operations, duties of railroad employees and general railroad safety as it relates to the protection of railroad employees;

(2) A basic knowledge of railroad rules and practices;

(3) The ability to understand and detect deviations from the requirements cited in paragraph (a) of this section; and

(4) Specialized knowledge of the requirements of the Federal operating practices regulations listed in paragraph (a) of this section, including the remedial action required to bring defective conditions into compliance with the applicable Federal standards.