All WSDOT trained inspection personnel, including consultants hired for the purpose of conducting inspections, are granted authority under the state safety oversight program to conduct both announced and unannounced inspections of the rail fixed guideway public transportation system (RFGPTS). Each RFGPTS must allow WSDOT and/or consultants to do all things reasonable and necessary to conduct their inspections including, but not limited to, entering RTA facilities and other relevant locations, and inspecting infrastructure, equipment, records, personnel, and data, including the data that the rail fixed guideway public transportation agency collects when identifying and evaluating safety risks. It is expected that the RTA will provide the WSDOT inspection staff with the resources and information necessary to conduct the inspection in an effective and efficient manner.

WSDOT, in consultation with each rail fixed guideway public transportation agency that it oversees, will establish policies and procedures regarding the access to each RFGPTS for the purpose of conducting inspections of the rail fixed guideway public transportation system, including access for inspections that occur without advance notice to the rail fixed guideway public transportation agency.