Report 13/2009: Investigation into safety at user worked crossings
Investigation into safety at user worked crossings
The RAIB investigation used data from a series of accidents and incidents which occurred at user worked level crossings between June 2006 and December 2008, and other information on crossing use, research programmes and current initiatives gathered by the RAIB from level crossing operators, train operators, and crossing users. The report looks at possible measures to reduce the risk at user worked level crossings.
As a consequence of this investigation, the RAIB has made a submission to the Law Commission and the Scottish Law Commission in connection with their current joint project to review the law relating to level crossings. These propose changes to the law in connection with:
- consultation on planning applications which may affect level crossings
- rights of way over private crossings
- protection measures for level crossings
- duties of crossing users
- the mechanism for permanent closure of crossings
The RAIB has also made eight recommendations, which are targeted at Network Rail, Northern Ireland Railways, the Heritage Railway Association, and the Department for Transport, covering the following areas:
- involvement of the crossing user in the preparation of risk assessments
- additional factors that should be included in risk assessments
- marking of the point from which a decision to cross should be made
- improved protection at crossings where adequate sighting is not achievable
- closure of crossings not adequately protected
- assessment of alternative methods of crossing protection
- review of the requirements for signs at crossings
Response to recommendations:
- RAIB will periodically update the status of recommendations as reported to us by the relevant safety authority or public body
- RAIB may add comment, particularly if we have concerns regarding these responses.