The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) released its report today into two trains being in the same section of track at Aylesbury on 27 August 2007. The incident caused disruption to services but did not lead to any damage or casualties.
The full report into the incident is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below:
Summary
An operating irregularity occurred at 10:38 hrs on 27 August 2007 on the single line between Aylesbury and Claydon L&NE Junction. A freight locomotive was standing on the single line without the necessary authority. A passenger train was then signalled onto the same line. The passenger train driver saw the locomotive ahead in time to stop without significant risk of collision.
The RAIB investigation identified a mistake by the shunter, a member of the freight train staff, as the immediate cause of the incident. The causal factor was poor safety-critical communications between the train staff and signaller. Contributory factors included issues relating to the training and rostering of local staff and a conflict between the local instructions for the line and the rule book.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made two recommendations to English Welsh and Scottish Railway (EWS) and other freight operators. These recommendations concern instructions for operating single lines and the rostering of staff to locations.
The RAIB has made one recommendation to Network Rail and the operators who use the line. This recommendation concerns the operating instructions for this line.
In addition, the RAIB has made one recommendation targeted at the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB). This recommendation concerns the dissemination of lessons learnt from operating incidents.
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 3248.
Newsdate: 11 June 2008
