TM 55-2200-001-12
Change 1
Sec. 1-General Rules (Rev.-11-1978)
(d)
AAR Open Top Loading Rules Inspection Department.
1.
This department is responsible for inspecting and checking the mandatory requirements provided in the manual
Governing the Loading of Commodities on Open Top Cars and Trailers, to Insure compliance with the General Rules,
Section No. 1 and specific figures, Section Nos. 2 to 7, inclusive.
2.
Responsibilities and Duties of Open Top Loading Inspectors.
(a)
Inspect loads at railroads and interchange points; inspect loads at request of shippers, railroad interchange
bureaus and/or associations.
(b)
Assist shippers and railroads in setting up loading patterns for new commodities already covered by a
figure when a revision or alternate figure is desired; for loads not specifically covered in the figure; for overdimentional
loads and for irregular type loads.
(c)
Call on shippers, accompanied by railroad mechanical personnel to discuss loading procedures.
(d)
Discuss loading problems with railroad personnel.
(e)
Assist in settling disputes wvith shippers or amongst carriers.
(f)
Check on veracity of load adjustments and/or transfer charges at interchange points.
(g)
Determine that shippers, railroads, interchange bureaus and/or associations have and are using current
publications of the Rules Governing the Loading of Commodities on Open Top Cars and Trailers.
3.
Reporting.
(a)
Inspectors will submit report to the Manager, AAR Loading Rules and also advise verbally supervisory
personnel at points visited of exceptions taken.
(b)
When consistent violations of a specific figure and/or General Rule are found on loads originating on
individual railroads, the Director of Rules and Inspection will forward a report covering such violations, furnishing car
numbers, dates and shipper and/or shippers to the Chief Mechanical Officer of the carrier involved. If noted violations
persist after the initial notification, a second report will be promptly forwarded requesting that advice be promptly
furnished on corrective action to be taken.
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