The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) today released its report into an incident at Greenhill Upper Junction, near Falkirk on 22 March 2009.
A full copy of the report is available here:
Summary
The incident occurred when the 09:17 hrs First ScotRail train from Alloa to Glasgow Queen Street traversed Greenhill Upper Junction. One of the sets of points forming the junction was in the incorrect position following work overnight by a contractor to renew a point machine on another set of points. Despite the points being in the incorrect position, the signalling equipment did not detect this and allowed the train to pass over the points.
The immediate cause of the incident was that the signalling system allowed a signal to clear with a set of points ahead in the incorrect position. The RAIB identified that this was because:
- while undergoing pre-site work in a workshop, extra wiring had been incorrectly installed in a point machine;
- the extra wiring was not discovered when the point machine was installed and then tested on site on 17/18 January 2009;
- there was a lack of clarity in the testing processes; and
- records were not kept up to date.
Recommendations
As a consequence of this accident, the RAIB has made six recommendations which are directed at Network Rail. These recommendations cover the following areas:
- testing of installation work that is carried out off site;
- planning the arrangements for testing the work in advance;
- clarifying the instructions in respect of testing points;
- the introduction of a new process covering small-scale enhancement works;
- reviewing the system by which records of testing are made; and
- revising the system of updating maintenance drawings where changes have been made.
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: 18 March 2010
