Network Rail Fined £3.75M for Safety Violations Leading to Worker Deaths

Network Rail has been fined £3.75M for breaching health and safety regulations in 2019. Two railway workers tragically lost their lives near Port Talbot after being struck by a train. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Network Rail Fined for Critical Safety Failures

The workers had begun maintenance work on an active railway line without adequate precautions. No lookout was assigned to provide advance warning about approaching trains or other potential hazards.

Don’t miss…Alstom Faces Issues: Delivery Delays and Technical Malfunctions

Following a prosecution by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), Network Rail admitted responsibility. A Swansea Crown Court ruling imposed the fine on Friday, with additional legal costs of £175,000.

Gareth Delbridge, 64, and Michael “Spike” Lewis, 58, were fatally struck by a London-bound train. A third worker at the scene narrowly avoided the same fate, escaping serious injury.

Both victims were wearing ear defenders, which prevented them from hearing the train’s warning horn. Investigators determined that unsafe working practices and poor safety enforcement contributed to the accident.

The inquiry revealed that safety procedures outlined by site supervisors were disregarded. Over time, informal practices replaced official guidelines, increasing risks for railway workers on active tracks.

Safety Reforms After Network Rail’s Failures

Regulators identified systemic safety issues, echoing concerns raised in previous railway incidents. ORR enforced stricter protocols, requiring immediate improvements in worker protection across the railway network.

Since the accident, officials claim safety measures have significantly improved, reducing risks for maintenance crews. Railway companies have adopted enhanced safety technology to prevent similar tragedies.

Richard Hines, Chief Inspector of Railways, underscored the severity of Network Rail’s failures. He called for continued vigilance, stressing the need for proactive measures and industry-wide reforms.

“The railway industry must prioritize safety to prevent future accidents,” Hines emphasized. He urged all operators to invest in worker protection and enforce comprehensive safety policies.

Over the past five years, officials have provided ongoing support to the victims’ families. Network Rail extended condolences, acknowledging the profound impact on friends, colleagues, and loved ones.

Since the tragedy, railway safety has evolved through the implementation of advanced monitoring systems. Authorities claim these innovations have minimized the necessity of trackside work during live train operations.

Network safety officials introduced planning tools that prevent dangerous maintenance work near moving trains. These measures ensure workers are protected from unnecessary risks while performing essential duties.

Regulators continue monitoring safety improvements, ensuring compliance with updated industry standards. Authorities stress the importance of maintaining rigorous oversight to prevent future railway accidents.

Despite progress, safety advocates argue additional reforms are necessary to protect maintenance crews. They call for increased investment in advanced technology to further enhance railway worker safety.

Industry leaders recognize the importance of continuous safety improvements to reduce fatalities. Experts emphasize that stricter regulations and comprehensive training are key to long-term accident prevention.

Families affected by the Port Talbot tragedy demand accountability and lasting changes. They urge industry leaders to enforce stricter regulations to prevent similar devastating incidents.

Regulators remain committed to enforcing compliance, ensuring railway companies adhere to safety laws. Authorities emphasize that preventing future accidents requires relentless focus and proactive safety strategies.

The Port Talbot tragedy highlights the urgent need for stronger safety measures. Experts stress that industry-wide reforms are essential for preventing further railway workplace fatalities.

Authorities continue refining regulations to address systemic failures in worker protection. Increased oversight aims to ensure long-term compliance with improved safety standards and operational protocols.

Source: www.theguardian.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Dubai Rail Bus: The Transport of the Future