Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into the derailment of a freight train near Waterside, East Ayrshire, on 21 January 2006.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below;
Summary
On Saturday 21 January the rear six wagons of a freight train travelling from Chalmerston to Carlisle derailed near Waterside. There were no injuries, but over two miles of the freight-only track was damaged in the incident.
The immediate cause of the incident was a fracture on the running rail within a section of track owned by Scottish Coal, which allowed the leading wheelset of one wagon to derail. The following five wagons remained on the track but derailed as the train came to a stand. There were four causal factors and six contributory factors to the incident.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made seven recommendations as a result of its investigation, covering the arrangements for the management of the track.
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: 30 January 2007
