Applied Rail Accident Investigation

Core content

The workshops build on theFundamentals of Accident Investigationcourse to develop specialist skills for the investigation of rail accidents. Over the four workshops, experienced presenters from industry and accident investigation organisations will cover the following subjects:

Workshop 1: Essential rail accident investigation skills

This workshop covers the essential skills required to conduct rail accident investigation and builds on theFundamentals of Accident Investigationcourse. It includes rail accident site management and risk management, practical evidence collection and photography, applied interviewing skills, accident analysis tools, report writing and developing safety recommendations. The workshop also discusses organisational aspects and SMS investigations.

Workshop 2: Investigating Derailment Accidents

This workshop focuses on the investigation approach of derailment accidents. It covers an overview of the mechanisms and factors contributing to derailment, such as collecting, inspecting, and interpreting evidence.  Practical exercises will be conducted on a track, including dynamic modelling of wheel/rail interface response, relevant human, and organisational factors. The workshop will partly be held on site at Northampton & Lamport Railway.

Workshop 3: Investigating Railway Operations Accidents

This workshop covers investigation approach of all other aspects of railway operations investigations such as level crossing accidents, Signal Passed at Danger, overspeeding, track worker/maintenance staff fatalities and near-misses, platform safety including platform-train interface and train door irregularities, train/vehicle runaways and authorised movements, and train/rail vehicle collisions. The workshop will also address investigations related to light rail (tram) and driverless operations. Relevant human factors aspects will be covered on first day of the workshop.

Workshop 4: Rail accident investigation simulation*

A five-day practical exercise in a simulated accident investigation scenario where delegates can apply the skills and knowledge acquired in theFundamentals of Accident Investigationcourse and other workshops in the Applied Rail Accident Investigation series. The simulation takes the delegate through the entire investigation process from notification, site investigation, interviews, analysis, report writing and formulating recommendations.

*Currently this workshop is only for applicants who have completed theFundamentals of Accident Investigationcourse or have an appropriate background, initial training and experience.