The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into the derailment of a London Underground Northern line tube train at Archway on 02 June 2006.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below -
Summary
On Friday 02 June 2005 a Northern Line tube train became derailed while entering the reversing siding at Archway station in north London. The rear bogie of the last car was derailed, and the car became wedged across the entrance to the siding tunnel. The only person on board, the train operator, was unhurt but damage was caused to the track and services suspended for the rest of the day.
The immediate cause of the derailment was a broken switch rail in the points leading to the reversing siding. A causal factor was a defect in the surface of the rail at the back end of the switch rail and the lack of a chamfer on this edge, which together created the conditions for a fatigue crack to develop. There were three contributory factors.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made three recommendations as a result of its investigation. They cover:
- the design and continued use of bullhead switch rails;
- the track inspection system.
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: 11 December 2006
