The ATSB is investigating a low-speed collision between BHP trains 5519A and 5519B at Finucane Island Balloon Loop (Port Hedland), Western Australia, on 2 March 2024.
At about 0445 local time, as train number 5519A was waiting to unload at the Finucane Island Balloon Loop, the driver of train 5519B was authorised to move forward and stop short of train 5519A. However, the driver of train 5519B was unable to stop in time and collided with the rear of train 5519A.
There were no reported injuries, and there was minimal damage to rollingstock.
The draft report internal review process has been completed. The draft report has been distributed to directly involved parties (DIPs) to check factual accuracy and ensure natural justice. Any submissions from those parties will be reviewed and, where considered appropriate, the draft report will be amended accordingly.
Following the external review process, any submissions and amendments to the draft report are internally reviewed. Once approved, the final report is prepared for publication and dissemination and released to DIPs prior to its public release.
The final report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.