An investigation has commenced into the derailment of freight train number 5WB7 at Casino, New South Wales, on 17 March 2022.
At about 2230 on 17 March 2022, an axle in the rear part of train 5WB7 broke as the train entered Casino Yard, derailing the wagon. As the train passed through the yard it travelled over a set of points for the closed Murwillumbah Branch (set for the mainline), at which point the derailment worsened with the rear four wagons derailing and becoming detached from the rest of the train. The train then passed through a second set of points (also set for the mainline) and came to a stop. A further four wagons at the rear of the train were derailed. A significant amount of track and signal infrastructure was damaged within Casino Yard, however there were no injuries.
This investigation is being led by the NSW Office of Transport Safety Investigations (OTSI). OTSI conducts rail investigations in NSW on behalf of the ATSB under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003 (Cwlth). OTSI investigators have begun collecting evidence from involved and other interested parties to determine the factors contributing to the accident. This evidence will include:
- CCTV footage
- data logger information
- recent track inspection and maintenance works
- wagon build and maintenance history
- asset handover process and supporting documentation
- metallurgical analysis of the broken axle.
A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. However, should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, OTSI and the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate and timely safety action can be taken.
