The Railroad Safety Board (RSB) reviews, and approves or denies, waiver petitions, block-signal applications, and requests for special approval submitted by railroads and other parties subject to the railroad safety regulations. For specific procedures pertinent to requests for relief, see 49 CFR Part 211 and relevant provisions of the specific regulations in question. 

The Board meets periodically to consider these cases. The Board consists of the following officials: FRA's Associate Administrator for Safety or a Deputy Associate Administrator for Safety (chair and deciding official); an attorney designated by the Chief Counsel; and three FRA safety managers, including at least one individual who is currently serving or has served as Railroad Administrator or Deputy Railroad Administrator.

Regulations
(Title 49 CFR)

• 211 - FRA's Rules of Practice
• 211.45 - Petitions for Emergency Waiver of Safety Rules