Safety issue

Safety issue description

Safety controls were ineffective in mitigating against a train arriving at Ballarat Railway Station travelling at excessive speed and being unable to stop before colliding with the crossing gates closed against rail traffic.
Issue number RO-2020-007-SI-01
Issue owner V/Line
Transport function Rail: Passenger - regional
Issue status Closed – Adequately addressed
Date issue released 28/10/2022
Issue status justification

The ATSB is satisfied that the action taken by V/Line has reduced the risk of this safety issue.

Safety action

Action type Proactive action
Action number RO-2020-007-PSA-01
Organisation V/Line
Action description

V/Line advised the ATSB of the following interim safety actions:

  • A train speed restriction of 80 km/h (reduced from 160 km/h) has been introduced on the approach to Ballarat Railway Station.
  • The Lydiard Street North level crossing has been fitted with active crossing protection including boom barriers, flashing lights and bells.
  • Speed monitoring has been installed at the Humffray Street level crossing. The Lydiard Street North level crossing protection is initiated when a train is travelling above the design threshold.

The ATSB is aware that at time of publishing there remained ongoing dialogue with stakeholders regarding the level crossing configuration. While the described interim safety actions taken by V/Line close this safety issue, any subsequent changes and controls reside with the rail operator.
Action status Closed