Understanding Total Time on Duty [Transportation]: A Comprehensive Guide

Definition & Meaning

Total time on duty (TTOD) refers to the total amount of time a railroad employee spends in service, including both covered service and commingled service. This time is calculated between qualifying off-duty periods of eight or ten hours or more. Activities that are mandatory but do not count as covered service, such as training sessions, are classified as limbo time. Limbo time does not contribute to the total time on duty calculation.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A railroad employee works for six hours, takes a ten-hour break, and then works for another five hours. The total time on duty would be eleven hours, as the break qualifies as an off-duty period.

Example 2: An employee attends a mandatory safety training session for two hours, which is considered limbo time and does not count towards their total time on duty. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Covered Service Time spent performing duties that are regulated under the Hours of Service laws. TTOD includes both covered service and commingled service.
Commingled Service Service time that may not be strictly regulated but is included in TTOD calculations. Commingled service is part of the total time on duty, while limbo time is not.
Limbo Time Mandatory activities that do not count as covered service. Limbo time is excluded from the total time on duty calculation.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a railroad employee or employer, it is crucial to accurately track total time on duty to ensure compliance with federal regulations. Consider using legal templates from US Legal Forms to help manage your documentation efficiently. If you encounter complexities or disputes regarding time calculations, seeking professional legal assistance may be necessary.

Quick facts

  • Typical off-duty periods: eight or ten hours.
  • Limbo time does not count towards TTOD.
  • Applicable regulations: 49 CFR 228.5.
  • Legal context: Transportation law, labor law.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Total time on duty is the total time a railroad employee spends in service, including both covered and commingled service, excluding limbo time.