Reporting a Close Call

Who can report close calls?

• Carrier employees
• Carrier managers

How do I report a close call?

1. Call in the report to BTS within 48 hours after the event occurs to receive protection from discipline.
2. Complete and mail the written report to BTS within three calendar days of the event (not counting weekends or federal holidays).
3. Complete a telephone interview with BTS.

What kinds of close calls can be reported?

• Events occurring frequently with low consequences (lifting of objects that puts employees at risk for minor injuries, such as sprains)
• Events occurring infrequently with the potential for high consequences (train in dark territory proceeds beyond its authority)
• Events below the FRA $8,500 reporting threshold (a minor derailment)
• Events above the FRA reporting threshold:
  • With the potential for a far greater accident, and
  • Where the IMOU does not protect employees (slow speed collision with minor damage to equipment but exceeding $8,500)

What happens to a close call report?

1. BTS reviews the report and schedules an interview.
2. BTS interviews the reporting employee and enters the information into a database.
3. BTS summarizes the information and prepares a report.
4. BTS shares the report with the Peer Review Team (PRT).
5. PRT identifies factors contributing to the accident and recommends carrier corrective action.
6. Carrier reviews and implements corrective action(s).
7. PRT reviews effective use of corrective action(s) and reviews with BTS.
8. BTS forwards information to close call reporting employee on request.

What does a close call report look like?

• View a sample completed C³RS report.
• Download a blank C³RS report.