Standard

Electronic Device Distraction Policy Requirements

Abstract

This standard provides electronic device distraction policy requirements for rail transit agencies to ensure that transit employees remain focused on their tasks without distraction.

Document History
Document Number Version Publication Date Publication Related Information
APTA RT-OP-S-017-11 Rev. 2 09/11/2025 Published Current
APTA RT-OP-S-017-11 Rev. 1 10/08/2018 Published Superseded

Keywords

distraction, electronic device, mobile phone

Summary

Though the use of electronic devices can be helpful in many transit situations, their use must be controlled in order to keep transit employees focused on their duties while performing safety-critical tasks. This standard establishes requirements for a policy that provides direction as to when and where rail transit agency employees may and may not use electronic devices. Though descriptions of safe areas may vary from agency to agency, the intent of the meaning of “safe use location” remains consistent. This standard also requires that each rail transit agency must monitor compliance and address noncompliance in accordance with its electronic device distraction policy.

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