Qube’s operational procedure for train management between Moss Vale and Inner Harbour did not account for locomotive configurations that maintained locomotive dynamic braking during emergency applications. This increased the risk of the train driver avoiding the use of the emergency brake during a runaway event.
The safety issue was raised with Qube after static testing on 4 May 2022. It was apparent the dynamic brake was not cutting out when emergency brakes were applied. Qube conducted further dynamic tests on 13 May 2022 and found the dynamic brake was not cutting out when emergency application was made.
Qube gave a verbal undertaking to commence assessing what they would need to do to rectify the safety issue.
Following release of the first draft report, Qube provided the following feedback;
Qube stated the initial results indicated that no further increase in brake cylinder pressure or brake force would have been experienced in emergency application.
When ATSB requested these tests be run again in the presence of ATSB, Qube stated they would not be spending any more time on this testing.
Qube has since ceased any further testing.
Qube has updated their procedures to address the safety issue.
The safety issue was raised with Qube, with initial response to assess what they would need to do to address the safety issue. Qube acknowledged there was an industry lack of knowledge of how particular emergency brake systems operated.
