History

The Decoration for Meritorious Railway Workers was established by the Council of State in 1954 and revised in 1973. It was administered by the Minister of Railways until it was discontinued following the collapse of the communist regime in 1989. A similar award was later established by the Republic of Poland in 2000.

From 1954-1973, the Decoration was awarded in a single grade to railway workers in recognition of 25 years of meritorious service. It could also be awarded in recognition of high productivity, the implementation of new technology, exceptional moral standing and discipline, and the implementation of health and safety measures. After 1973, it was awarded in two grades in recognition of 5 and 10 years of meritorious service.

The II Class Decoration features initials that stand for "Polska Rzeczpospolita Ludowa" (Polish People's Republic) and an additional inscription that can be translated to "Leading Railwayman."