The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into a fatal accident involving a shunter at Dagenham Dock on 17 July 2006.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below -
Summary
On Monday 17 July 2006 a shunter employed by Freightliner Heavy Haul Ltd was crushed between a locomotive and a wagon during a shunting move at Dagenham Dock yard. There were no immediate witnesses.
The shunter sustained fatal injuries when he fell between the buffers of the locomotive and the wagon. He had been standing or walking close to the train alongside a siding, and as the train passed he collapsed or tripped, and so fell into the gap between the buffers. If the shunter tripped, a causal factor was the damaged condition of the trackside walkway, which presented a hazard. There were also seven contributory factors.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made seven recommendations as a result of the report, aimed at:
- the management of identified risks;
- ensuring compliance with the rule book;
- methods of working; and
- the establishment of safe walking routes.
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: 12 July 2007
