Statements

ORR response to Rail Accident Investigation Branch report

12 November 2020
ORR response to Rail Accident Investigation Branch report

Statement from HM Chief Inspector of Railways, Ian Prosser CBE.

HM Chief Inspector of Railways, Ian Prosser CBE said:

"Our thoughts continue to be with the families and friends of Gareth Delbridge and Michael Lewis, who were struck and killed by a train at Margam in July last year.

"Track worker safety is paramount and in the 18 months prior to the incident at Margam we undertook additional inspections following our growing concerns that Network Rail was not doing enough to control risks to track workers. 

"These inspections had resulted in formal enforcement action being taken. Network Rail responded by forming a significant task force to bring about much needed improvements.”

"Our investigation into this tragic incident continues, however the recommendations in this report are welcomed."

Background

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  • Some recommendations may go beyond what the Office of Rail and Road could enforce in law but we will ensure that recommendations are duly considered and where appropriate acted upon.
  • We had already decided to take enforcement action prior to the incident at Margam. Network Rail must comply with the Notices by July 2022. 
  • We have long had a vision for the industry to achieve zero industry-caused workforce fatalities. Network Rail has achieved this occasionally, but until it is sustained we will continue to prioritise work in this area.
     
Related links
RAIB Report: Track workers struck by a train at Margam