The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into the near miss of two track persons by a tram on the Manchester Metrolink at Radcliffe on 08 November 2005.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below
Summary
On Tuesday 08 November 2005 two track workers were working on the Manchester Metrolink between Bury and Manchester Victoria. They were given inadequate warning of the approach of a tram but reached a place of safety. The tram then struck a large tool that the track workers had had insufficient time to retrieve. After the incident, communications between the control room, tram drivers and the track workers became confused. No party reached a clear understanding and neither trams nor the worksite were protected whilst the work was completed.
The immediate cause of the incident was the inadequate safe system of work that was adopted, particularly the insufficient time available for a lookout to sight an approaching tram and give warning. There were several contributing factors and underlying causes to the incident.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made nine recommendations to Serco Metrolink as a result of its investigation. They cover:
• Adequacy of safe system of work arrangements
• Control room staffing and links to work sites
• Mentoring and supervision of staff
• Board level supervision and review of working procedures
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: 17 July 2006
