The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into two near misses at Crofton Old Station No. 1 level crossing near Wakefield on the 01 and 18 May 2006.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below -
Summary
On Monday 01 May 2006 a train passed over Crofton Old Station No.1 level crossing whilst the crossing gates were open to the road. The gates had been open for approximately two minutes prior to the arrival of the train and a car had used the crossing around a minute before the train passed over the crossing.
On Thursday 18 May 2006 a train passed over the same level crossing while one crossing gate was open to the road. At the time the train passed, the crossing keeper was attempting to close the gates to the road.
There were no injuries or damage caused in either incident.
The immediate cause of both incidents was that the signal protecting the level crossing showed clear aspect for the passage of trains whilst the level crossing gates were open to the road. Two causal factors were the lack of interlocking between the signals and the level crossing's gates, and human error in failing to follow the procedure for working the crossing. The report also identified four contributory factors to the incidents.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made six recommendations aimed at:
- provision of interlocking at Crofton No 1 Level Crossing (already carried out by Network Rail);
- assessment of risk at Crofton No1 Level Crossing, and at other similar crossings nationwide;
- standards for level crossings; and
- ensuring that the requirements of level crossing orders are complied with.
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 6984.
Newsdate: 29 May 2007
