Aurizon’s procedures and guidance for two-driver operation during situations such as a condition affecting the network (CAN) did not facilitate the effective sharing of duties and teamwork to minimise the potential effects of degraded conditions on driver workload and fatigue.
In June 2020, in response to the draft report, Aurizon advised:
Aurizon will review its procedures for the management of workload in two-driver operations in circumstances where Conditions Affecting the Network may impact on driver workload.
In August 2021, Aurizon advised that the consultation and publication of changes to its Standard for Operation of Rail Traffic in Adverse Weather Conditions was scheduled for November 2021. However, due to various factors, it was prioritising other change activities at this time.
In May 2022, Aurizon advised that, due to other tasking, it had not progressed its review of the document.
In July 2024, Aurizon advised that it was embarking on a large change project involving its safety management system (SMS). As part of that project, it will be conducting internal consultation on a draft guideline for adverse weather preparedness and response. The consultation will occur later in 2024.
The ATSB acknowledges Aurizon’s intent to review its procedures for the management of workload in two-driver operations, and the ATSB will seek updates on the progress of Aurizon’s activities to address this issue on a regular basis.
