GWA policies, procedures and training had little if any guidance for employees quantifying the duration, consequential dangers and responses to severe weather events.
GWA has proposed new policies/procedures, training and systems to mitigate risk of a similar recurrence.
GWA is currently reviewing the FreightLink Extreme Weather Event Monitoring and Response Procedure FL-PRO-06-010E with the aim of developing a GWA document which incorporates features of this procedure and learnings from the Edith River Bridge derailment. GWA is also reviewing its Cyclone Response Plan (RS-PRC-017) in conjunction with Network Users, once again with the aim of incorporating learnings from the derailment into the document.
Work has also commenced on developing an awareness package for delivery to all GWA train crews which details the recommended response to flooded track, storms and associated extreme wind events and line side fires. It is envisaged that the package will also be delivered to Transport Controllers, operational staff, track inspectors and members of senior management involved in the decision-making process.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is satisfied that the action proposed by Genesee & Wyoming Australia Pty Ltd will adequately address the safety issue.
