Since its inception, the OPWG has comprised senior managers of all U.S. rail transit properties and has been charged with developing operations standards that deliver consistency in approaches to managing rail operations across the industry. TRA has led the OPWG in the development of 22 original standards focusing on such foundational topics as rule book introduction and authority, accident investigation, and rule compliance programs. This also includes urgent industry safety needs, such as train operator hours of service and roadway worker protection.

TRA has worked with leaders from heavy and light rail systems to develop meaningful and updated standards on a regular basis, ensuring they reflect industry needs and raise the consistency and quality of operating practices to deliver safer and more efficient rail operations.