Reasons for leaving track work objects on the line
Risk from objects left on the line, excluding earthworks and structure failures, accounted for around 15% of total train accident risk.
Furthermore, incidents involving objects, such as trolleys, on open lines were reported every 2 to 3 weeks on average, with no discernible improvement over time.
RSSB recognised the need to develop a deeper understanding of the cultures that manage on-track plant and ensure the safety of personnel involved in removing objects from rail lines.
The RSSB project team engaged with industry to understand track workers’ practices and the cultures that manage on-track plant.
Through interviews, observations, workshops, and attendance at several work sites and possessions, the team observed how work is carried out in practice. They focused on the management of engineering objects on or near the line, observing tasks, actions, and decision making from a human factors perspective.
The project was developed in collaboration with the Infrastructure Safety Leadership Group (ISLG). Their support was invaluable in helping focus on customer needs.
This project is a key enabler for the reduction of risk in this area, which currently accounts for 0.838 fatalities and weighted injuries per year.
The project report includes detailed guidance on practices that reduce the causes of objects left on the line as well as guidance about how to implement these in existing operations.
The findings inform the development of new ISLG Codes of Practice, which will lead the way in improving industry performance.
The work also provides detailed practical input to existing industry activities in areas such as geofencing and workforce fatigue.