Confidential Close Call Reporting System (C3RS)
As of 2026, over 2,000 NJT train service employees can confidentially report C3RS close call incidents.
To initiate a Close Call report, use the electronic reporting form at:
https://c3rs.arc.nasa.gov/
https://c3rs.arc.nasa.gov/
Q1 What are the boundaries of the NJ Transit C3RS program?
All New Jersey Transit owned and/or operated territory, including the Southern Tier and Pascack Valley Line and Amtrak (excluding Conrail, which is not covered by C3RS).
Q2 Will relief crews working within the boundaries be covered?
Yes.
Q3 Are Peer Review Team members permanent?
The Peer Review Team (PRT) is made up of union members appointed by their respective General Chairmen. There is no requirement for periodic replacement, but members have been replaced.
Q4 What close call events are accepted by C3RS?
| Event Category | Example |
|---|---|
| Event occurs frequently with low consequences | A run through yard switch, other than main track switch, that does not result in a train accident, improper blocking, or missed repeat of NORAC Rule 241 |
| Event with potential for high consequences | Train proceeding beyond its authority in non-signal territory |
Q5 How do I report a close call?
- Visit c3rs.arc.nasa.gov to report a close call electronically.
- Submit the form to NASA within three calendar days of the incident (not counting weekends and Federal Holidays).
Q6 What happens after I submit my report?
- A NASA team member passes your report to long-time railroaders with special training for further analysis.
- NASA conducts a telephone interview with you to learn about the event.
- NASA determines if the event qualifies as a close call.
- NASA mails you a receipt with a C3RS event confirmation number confirming receipt, qualification, and your eligibility for protection.
- NASA de-identifies the report and enters the event into a database.
- NASA sends a summary report to the carrier’s Peer Review Team (PRT).
- PRT identifies contributing factors and recommends corrective action to the carrier.
- Carrier reviews recommendations and implements corrective action.
- NASA shares information with the reporting employee upon request.
Q7 Are there conditions for receiving protection?
Yes. For an employee to receive protection, all of the following conditions must be met:
- The employee’s action (or lack of action) was not intended to damage carrier operations, equipment, and/or personnel.
- The employee electronically reports the unsafe condition to NASA within 3 business days of noting it, and NASA accepts the report.
- The employee’s carrier has an active IMOU with FRA.
- The employee violated a law, regulation, or operating rule under a direct order from a supervisor.