❓ A parliamentary question addresses a near head-on train collision on the Kalgoorlie to Esperance line, seeking details on the incident, investigation, cause, and preventative measures. The Minister's response outlines the investigation, preliminary findings of human error, and immediate corrective actions taken.
AnsweredQoN 360Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
(1) Is the Minister aware of an incident in which two trains came close to a head-on collision on the Kalgoorlie to Esperance line in May 2005?
(2) What action has been taken to investigate the incident?
(3) What was the cause of the incident?
(4) What action has been taken to minimize the possibility of a similar incident recurring?
(2) What action has been taken to investigate the incident?
(3) What was the cause of the incident?
(4) What action has been taken to minimize the possibility of a similar incident recurring?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
21 September 2005
Responded by
Minister for Planning and Infrastructure
Response time
35 days
1. Yes, the incident was reported on 12 May 2005 to the Department for Planning and Infrastructure, Rail Safety Business Unit and immediate action implemented. 2. The accredited railway organisations involved in the occurrence, namely WestNet Rail (WestNet) and Australia Western Railroad (AWR) were directed on 12 May 2005 to conduct a joint investigation into the incident. The content of the Investigation Report is required to include the circumstances, contributing factors and recommended safety actions to prevent a recurrence. 3. Proven safe working rules and procedures for the safe passage of trains assisted by a computerised management system are in place over the Kalgoorlie - Esperance railway line. Preliminary findings indicate that these systems were accidentally circumvented through human error. 4. WestNet implemented immediate corrective action to prevent a recurrence. The person directly associated with the accidental system circumvention was moved from train control to undertake other duties. WestNet and AWR have reinforced the requirements of relevant safe working rules to all affected staff. Additionally, the investigation will include an examination of human factor issues associated with the event to identify where any further action is required to strengthen the safety management system.
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