Aurizon’s procedures and guidance for two-driver operation during situations such as a condition affecting the network (CAN) did not facilitate the effective sharing of duties and teamwork to minimise the potential effects of degraded conditions on driver workload and fatigue.
The ATSB recognises that Aurizon has been in the process of addressing this safety issue through improved and specific guidance to rail traffic crew, and other types of rail safety workers, about the hazards of different types of weather conditions and recommended ways of responding. The ATSB is satisfied that this guidance, when finally implemented, will reduce the risk of this safety issue. The ATSB also recognises that other safety action undertaken by Queensland Rail and Aurizon has also reduced the risks associated with operating in severe weather conditions.
In June 2020, in response to the draft report, Aurizon advised:
Aurizon will review its procedures for the management of workload in two-driver operations in circumstances where Conditions Affecting the Network may impact on driver workload.
The ATSB acknowledges Aurizon’s intent to review its procedures for the management of workload in two-driver operations, and the ATSB will seek updates on the progress of Aurizon’s activities to address this issue on a regular basis.
Update 13 May 2022
In August 2021, Aurizon advised that the consultation and publication of changes to its Standard for Operation of Rail Traffic in Adverse Weather Conditions was scheduled for November 2021. However, due to various factors, it was prioritising other change activities at this time.
In May 2022, Aurizon advised that, due to other tasking, it had not progressed its review of the document.
Update 5 July 2024
In July 2024, Aurizon advised that it was embarking on a large change project involving its safety management system (SMS). As part of that project, it will be conducting internal consultation on a draft guideline for adverse weather preparedness and response. The consultation will occur later in 2024.
Update 20 June 2025
On 20 June 2025, Aurizon provided an updated draft version of its Guide for Preparing and Responding to Adverse and Severe Weather Conditions. The document outlined guidance for several different types of workers for several different types of weather conditions.
The document included a page of guidance for operating rolling stock during adverse weather. Key messages included that prolonged or continuous operation of rolling stock at a restricted or controlled speed presented risks and challenges to rail traffic crew. More specifically, the document stated:
Driving under these conditions increases workload and the likelihood of fatigue. There is also a risk that rail traffic crew will still make incorrect determinations of the following:
Over time, risk perception of rail traffic crew erodes during prolonged controlled/restricted speed operation, resulting in ineffective application. This can be managed by:
In addition, the guidance in the operational weather tables for rail traffic crew and heavy rain and flooding also noted (under 'anticipate') 'prolonged periods of slow speed resulting in impaired risk perception, higher workload, fatigue'. It also stated (under 'respond') 'where flooding is suspected, reduce speed to controlled speed and manage risks', with a link back to the section on the hazards of controlled speed.
Aurizon advised that the guideline was still undergoing some consultation activities, and not yet fully published. It expected that it would be published prior to the next summer season in Queensland.
Aurizon also advised that it was currently piloting a Training Academy in Jilalan, where simulators were being used to more comprehensively train and assess emergency response.
