Guidance issued on ECM regulations following Llangennech RAIB report
Project number:
2023-STN-011
Reduced freight wagon risk with new guidance on maintenance regulations
The challenge
In 2020, a freight train carrying diesel fuel and gas oil in tank wagons derailed near Llangennech, South Wales. The formal accident report recommended that guidance is produced to support the practical application of legal requirements on the maintenance of wagons.
The current legislation for entities in charge of maintenance (ECM) is in the Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Safety) Regulations 2006 (Schedule 10). This was adopted from EU Regulation 445/2011. Great Britain is a signatory to the convention for international traffic (COTIF); this mirrors the updated EU ECM Regulation (EU) 2019/779. Vehicles in cross-border service are required to hold a British maintenance certificate, and it is difficult for organisations to understand this legislation.
What we did
The current legislation for entities in charge of maintenance (ECM) is in the Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Safety) Regulations 2006 (Schedule 10). This was adopted from EU Regulation 445/2011. Great Britain is a signatory to the convention for international traffic (COTIF); this mirrors the updated EU ECM Regulation (EU) 2019/779. Vehicles in cross-border service are required to hold a British maintenance certificate, and it is difficult for organisations to understand this legislation.
To create the document, RSSB prepared the document in consultation with the freight sector, including the Wagon Condition Programme Workstream V. RSSB technical leads worked with industry colleagues through workshops. Feedback was reviewed and addressed and formal industry consultation undertaken. The Rolling Stock Standards Committee then approved publication.
Benefits delivered
GMGN2697 Issue one is an easy-to-read guidance note for maintainers, railway undertakings, manufacturers, and suppliers. It highlights Office of Rail and Road guidance and addresses issues in maintenance and ECM certification systems.
The document offers an industry-agreed approach to clarify roles and reduce the time needed to understand legal duties. It aims to lower the risk of freight wagon incidents and improve railway performance. Estimated benefits include more than £1.2m in savings over five years.