The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into a collision between a train and a road vehicle on the M20 overline bridge at Aylesford on 05 February 2007.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below -
Summary
On Monday 05 February 2007 a bridge inspection unit working at the M20 was deployed over a railway bridge between Maidstone Barracks and Aylesford stations. The gantry on the bridge inspection unit was struck by a scheduled Southeastern service, causing significant damage to the leading carriage and wrecking the gantry. The train driver and the sole passenger were injured. Nobody was on the gantry at the time.
The railway line was open for normal rail services at the time and no possession had been granted to work on the railway. The incident was caused by a misunderstanding between the bridge inspector and the operator of the inspection unit.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made six recommendations, all targeted at the contractor working on the highway. These are aimed at:
- staff briefing processes;
- site supervision systems;
- safety induction systems; and
- staff training.
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: 26 September 2007
