Under federal regulations, what is the maximum allowable time a train employee can be in covered service without a rest period?

The correct answer is based on federal regulations that govern the hours of service for train employees. According to these regulations, a train employee is allowed to be in covered service, meaning they are engaged in their work duties, for a maximum of 12 hours before they must receive a mandatory rest period.

This rule is important for ensuring safety not only for the employees themselves but also for the passengers and the overall operation of the rail system. Proper rest periods help prevent fatigue, which can significantly impair judgment and reaction times, ultimately reducing the risk of incidents or accidents.

Other response options represent times that exceed the limit set by federal regulations. For example, allowing a train employee to work 16 or 24 hours without a rest period would pose serious safety risks, as fatigue would likely compromise their ability to operate train functions effectively and respond to any emergencies that may arise. Thus, the adherence to the 12-hour limit is critical for maintaining a safe working environment.