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.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau advises that Pacific National should consider the implications of this safety issue and take action where considered appropriate.
Minor Safety Issue
Examination of RailBAM® data established that under PN's existing maintenance guidelines there was no requirement to take wagon RQJW 22034D out of service. However, inspection of the data showed that there was a growing problem with the 2L axle-box.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau advises that Pacific National should consider the implications of this safety issue and take action where considered appropriate.
Minor Safety Issue
An examination of wheel impact (WILD) data established that under PN's existing maintenance guidelines there was no requirement to take wagon RQJW 22034D out of service. However, running a trend analysis of WILD data clearly showed that there was a growing wheel impact problem.