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Flaw in Caution Order form
Date issue released
Safety Issue Description

A caution order instrument was used that lacked a specific requirement for train crews to check the points along their route. This requirement becomes critical under circumstances of signalling system degradation.

Issue number
RO-2013-027-SI-02
Transport Function
Rail: Infrastructure
Issue Owner
Australian Rail Track Corporation
Mode of Transport
Rail
Proactive action
Organisation
Australian Rail Track Corporation
Action date
Action Status
Closed
Action description

ARTC has made changes to the Signalman’s Caution Order (Form number 2377). The changes include a requirement for the NCO, when issuing a Signalman’s Caution Order, to ensure the following actions are undertaken:

  • That route-setting is checked as to its compatibility with the gauge of the train about to receive the Signalman’s Caution Order
  • That route integrity has been verified by reference to the Phoenix display
  • That the driver of the train has been advised to ensure that all points to be traversed are correctly set
  • That confirmation is to be noted in the new check box area provided on Form 2377 adjacent to each of these requirements.
ATSB Response

The ATSB is satisfied with the action taken by ARTC to address the safety issue.