What must a qualified person under 213.7a have demonstrated to their track owner?

A qualified person under section 213.7a is required to have demonstrated one year of supervisory experience in track maintenance to their track owner. This requirement ensures that individuals responsible for the oversight of track maintenance possess the necessary leadership skills, as well as a comprehensive understanding of maintenance procedures and safety regulations. Supervisory experience reflects an individual's ability to manage teams, enforce standards, and ensure compliance with operational protocols, thereby promoting the safety and efficiency of railway operations.

Moreover, while knowledge in ticketing regulations, track inspection protocols, and expertise in locomotive operations are all valuable skills in the broader context of railway management and safety, they do not specifically fulfill the qualifications mandated by 213.7a. The emphasis on supervisory experience highlights the importance of leadership within the maintenance context, which is critical for maintaining safety and integrity on the tracks.