Derailment of freight train 5MP5, near Keith, South Australia, on 8 October 2010

RO-2010-010

Final report

Abstract

At about 0415 on 8 October 2010, freight train 5MP5 travelling from Melbourne to Perth reported having derailed on the Defined Interstate Rail Network (DIRN) between Wirrega and Keith in South Australia.

No one was injured and there was only minor damage to rolling stock during the derailment, however approximately 400 m of track required repairs before services could resume and 2900 concrete sleepers were subsequently replaced to restore track integrity.

It was established that the derailment was the result of a screwed journal on the 12th wagon (RQJW 22034D) in the consist behind the locomotives.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number RO-2010-010
Occurrence date 08/10/2010
Location near Keith
State South Australia
Report release date 28/09/2011
Report status Final
Investigation level Systemic
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Rail
Rail occurrence category Derailment
Occurrence class Incident
Highest injury level None

Train details

Train number Train 5MP5
Type of operation Freight train
Departure point Melbourne, Vic.
Destination Perth, WA
Train damage Minor