Safety concern regarding provision of critical safety information
The reporter has raised a safety concern regarding the reluctance of some train controllers within the operator’s network to provide, (intentionally or unintentionally), critical safety information to train drivers.
The reporter provided an example of approaching a crossing at [Location] with a yellow signal. The reporter asked the controller for information regarding the next signal, and the reason for the signal. The reporter states that the controller reluctantly advised that there was an approaching train and just to follow the signals. The reporter queried what type of train was approaching and no further response was received.
The reporter is an experienced driver and states that this is becoming more common and not just limited to one or two controllers. However, the reporter advises that many of the controllers are very professional and forthcoming with safety information.
The reporter is unsure if there has been a change of procedures within network control, or if training processes for controllers have changed in recent times. The reporter advises that following [a recent] accident, the operator initiated a critical communication course that became mandatory for anyone operating on their network; however, does not believe this is mandatory for [Operator's] train controllers.
In response to the de-identified information detailed in the report, Operator advises the following:
1. It is mandatory for all Network Controllers to undertake Safety Critical Communications in a Rail Environment. This course is nationally accredited and is a unit of competency within the Operator's Certificate IV in Rail Network Control.
2. Operator's network safeworking rules and procedures require that a train driver must drive to the signal aspect displayed on the track once the driver has received the appropriate authority to travel on the network.
3. In accordance with the relevant rules and procedures established under the critical communications training, the particular information requested by the driver as detailed in the report is not considered to be 'critical' information.
4. Operator is of the view that the network controller has provided all information that the controller is required to provide to the driver in the circumstances.
5. Persistent requests for non-critical information, being information that a network controller is not required to provide to a driver, could potentially cause distraction for a controller, who is undertaking a safety critical role on the rail network.
ONRSR has reviewed the reporter’s concerns and operator’s response. Safety critical communication is a current national priority for ONRSR and future regulatory interactions will include an examination of the operator’s network control operations and training processes. Further information regarding ONRSR’s national priorities can be found at ONRSR’s website at the following link: https://www.onrsr.com.au/safety-essentials/onrsrs-national-priorities”.