The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) released its report today into an incident on the Nene Valley Railway (NVR), 16 February 2008.
The full report into the incident is available here.
A summary of the key points from the report is included below-
Summary
On 16 February 2008, a child fell from a carriage forming part of the 11:20 hrs train from Wansford to Peterborough on the Nene Valley Railway. The child sustained minor injuries. The train was travelling at approximately 20 mph (32 km/h) at the time of the incident.
The accident happened because the carriage doors are fitted with internal handles. The carriage was of Danish origin, and the NVR is the only UK operator of such carriages. The child was probably able to open both the door deadlock and slam lock handles. There were no warning signs about the risk posed by the door handles.
Recommendation
The RAIB has made one recommendation to NVR; the NVR have taken action. The recommendation relates to measures to reduce the risk of accidental opening of doors on their ex-Danish carriages and any others in their fleet employing internal door handles, such as modifying the handles and posting warning signs.
The RAIB has also notified the European Rail Agency of its findings so that other railways in Europe that might use carriages with these door handles are aware of the risks from them.
Notes to Editors
1. The sole purpose of RAIB investigations is to prevent future accidents and incidents and improve railway safety. The RAIB does not establish blame, liability or carry out prosecutions.
2. For media enquiries please call 020 7944 3108.
