The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into the collision of a locomotive with carriages at Great Central Railway's Loughborough Central station on 4 February 2006.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below
Summary
On Saturday 4th February a steam locomotive was travelling at low speed towards Loughborough Central station when it collided with the rearmost of six carriages berthed at platform 1. Two members of GCR staff sustained minor injuries. The locomotive and one carriage sustained damage.
The immediate cause of the collision was that the driver did not apply the locomotive break. Factors that contributed to the incident were the driver and fireman being distracted from looking out, reduced visibility due to a concentration of steam, and the driver's reduced visual acuity when not wearing spectacles.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made four recommendations to Great Central Railways as a result of its investigation. They cover:
• revising its Rule Book and training
• ensuring members of staff comply with the requirements of their medical certificates
• ensuring its policy on medical certification and recertification is properly applied
• ensuring a first aid kit is provided and clearly indicated in all locomotive cabs
Notes to Editors
1. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch started operation on 17 October 2005. 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 6984.
Newsdate: 10 July 2006
