The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into the cutting of a rail from a line that was still open to traffic, near Thirsk station, on the East Coast Main Line on 11 January 2006.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below.
Summary
On Wednesday 11 January 2006 a gang of track workers started to remove a rail on the line just north of Thirsk station. It was then discovered that the rail had been severed on a line that was still open to traffic, and that the worksite had been established outside of an engineering possession.
A range of causal factors and two contributory factors to this incident have been identified.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made eight recommendations as a result of its investigation:
• One recommendation to the RSSB to covering forms used during possessions
• Seven recommendations to Network Rail covering staff briefings, procedures and documentation
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.
