The reporter has raised safety concerns in relation to communications and training for non-emergency de-training procedures.
The reporter states, on the [date], [Operator] passenger service [Service A] operating from [Location 1] to [Location 2] experienced multiple delays due to local flooding and mechanical issues resulting in the eventual transferring of passengers and crew from [Service A] onto the following service [Service B].
The reporter states, shortly after departing [Location 3], the train stopped and the Passenger Attendants (PA) were advised the front engine had now failed and the driver was unable to start both the front and rear engine which had failed earlier at [Location 4]. It was fortunate the train was located on a loop section of the main line. It was then arranged that the following northbound train, [Service B], would stop alongside allowing passengers and crew to be transferred onto this service to continue their northbound journey.
The reporter states that after [Service B] had stopped beside their train, the PA started to climb down the side of the train to commence setting up for the passenger transfer. At the same time, the driver of [Service B] was then directed to move the train a short distance further forward in order for the doors of both trains to be perfectly aligned to assist with the transfer of baggage from one train to the other. Once [Service B] had stopped a second time, the transfer of passengers and baggage commenced.
The reporter queries the following points in relation to the track closure communication and detraining processes:
- Non-emergency training is not provided to train crews particularly in the use of ladders for de-training purposes and individual crew duties.
- Equipment for emergency use is not maintained, providing an example of the availability of only one torch with a dim battery in the emergency kit.
- Track closures appear to be communicated to passengers before train crew which contributes to crew fatigue with passenger frustration.
- No debriefing was provided to train crew at sign off.
Finally, the reporter states there was some confusion among the train crews regarding the decision to de-train. At the time crew were fatigued, it was dark, wet and not an emergency situation. There was power, food and water available and there was nil danger to passengers or crew.
I refer to the REPCON Request RR2024-00023 in relation to the confidential report about the detrainment of [Service A] on [date]. Thanks for the opportunity for [Operator] to review and respond. Below is a summary of the actions [Operator] has taken or will undertake to ensure continuous improvement.
- Review of expiry dates for batteries in the emergency kits. This activity was undertaken by the [Position title] to inspect all emergency boxes to ensure currency of kit contents, including torch batteries and spare batteries. - Complete
- Implement an audit program to ensure currency of the kits that ensures 6-monthly checks are undertaken at a minimum frequency of every 6 months.- Complete
- Review courseware to include the management of a range of situations such as medical emergencies and security incidents. There is also a range of practical evacuation exercises from de-training from a disabled train to derailments and fires. - Complete
- [Operator] is in the process of re-developing the [staff safety refresher training] which will include similar practical exercises for a range of non-emergency and emergency situations. - In progress
Review current processes and protocols with a view of improving communication with train crew, including responsibilities for conveying on-board communication between drivers and on-board staff. - To be completed in next six months
ONRSR confirms receipt of ATSB REPCON report number RR2024-00023, regarding inadequate communication and training for non-emergency de-training procedures. ONRSR has reviewed the reporter’s concerns and operator’s response. ONRSR will include the matters raised in the REPCON report in the scope of a regulatory activity scheduled as part of the ONRSR National Work Program.