By Steve Nicastro, Account Manager, All Steel Structures, Inc.

CHOO-CHOO!

There’s a lot to consider when installing a billboard—or in my case, replacing lottery boards on an existing structure—inside a railroad yard. I wanted to share some key steps and lessons from my recent experience.

First off, you can’t just show up at a rail yard with your crew, equipment, and heavy machinery and start working. There are important steps and lead times you need to account for:

Step 1: Apply for a Right of Entry (ROE)

This is your first step and it can take up to three weeks to process. You’ll need to submit:

• A Certificate of Insurance (COI)
• A map showing the exact work location
• Payment for the ROE (this will vary depending on which railroad you are entering)

Step 2: Request a Flagman and/or Cable Locate

Once your ROE is approved and executed, the next step is to request flagging support and any necessary cable locates. This must be submitted at least 10 business days before your proposed start date.

You’ll need to submit:

• The executed ROE
• Your COI
• A completed flagman request form
• A map showing the exact work location
• Proof of payment (this step also requires a fee and will vary based on how many days flagmen are needed)

Step 3: Safety Training and Photo ID Badges

Every crew member who will enter the site must complete Safety Training and receive a Photo ID badge. There is also a cost associated with this process.

Pro tip: Have a few backup dates ready. The railroad will assign you a date based on flagman availability, which may not align with your preferred schedule. Overall, give yourself plenty of time to work through the process from start to finish.

Hope this helps anyone navigating railroad yard work for the first time.

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