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Communication protocols at the Melbourne Freight Terminal
Date issue released
Safety Issue Description

The practice of using a third party (the shunt planner) to facilitate communication between Network Control Officers and train drivers at the Melbourne Freight Terminal prevented an effective response to the emergency.

Issue number
RO-2013-020-SI-02
Transport Function
Network Operations
Issue Owner
Pacific National
Mode of Transport
Rail
Issue Status Justification

The ATSB is satisfied that the action taken by Pacific National addresses this safety issue.

Proactive action
Action number
RO-2013-020-NSA-098
Organisation
Pacific National
Action date
Action Status
Closed
Action description

Pacific National has formally communicated the requirements of ARTC Train Notice 1983 - Shunting for Train and Locomotive Movements at Melbourne Freight Terminal to all Melbourne Freight Terminal (MFT) Shunt Planners, through the issue of Local Safety Notice LSN-Melb-13/01 - Short Shunting Movements between Opposing Fixed Signals. The notice reiterates the following:

  • All communications with ARTC Network Controllers are to be undertaken in accordance with ARTC Train Notice 1983;
  • All MFT Shunt Planners are to contact the ARTC Network Controllers to request access and nominate departure signals for shunting movements entering the ARTC network from the MFT; and
  • Once the shunting movement has entered the ARTC network the Network Controller is to contact the Locomotive Driver directly regarding any issues or to provide further instructions in relation to the shunting movements.

To ensure the protocols are followed as required, Pacific National has formally advised ARTC of its requirements for communications between MFT and the ARTC Network Controller.