Safety issue: RO-2010-012-SI-02 - Identification of severe weather events

Identification of severe weather events

Issue number:	RO-2010-012-SI-02
Who it affects:	All rail operators
Issue owner:	Genesee & Wyoming Aust Pty Ltd (GWA)
Operation affected:	Rail: Freight
Background:	Investigation Report RO-2010-012
Date:	20 December 2011

Safety issue description

Train drivers receive no formal training with respect to understanding severe weather events, the associated derailment risk and mitigation strategies.

Proactive Action

Action organisation:	Genesee & Wyoming Aust Pty Ltd (GWA)
Action number:	RO-2010-012-NSA-015
Date:	20 December 2011
Action status:	Closed

GWA will engage a specialist service provider to monitor and issue warnings of the formation of severe weather events which have the potential to impact on the railway network and operations.

In addition, GWA will develop an education program for delivery to its train crews which aims to provide them with the skills required to identify and respond appropriately to potentially severe weather events.

ATSB response:

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is satisfied that the action proposed by Genesee & Wyoming Australia Pty Ltd will adequately address the safety issue.