Shunting accidents and hazards are regrettably common – the overall safety of shunting operations can be improved

The Safety Investigation Authority has completed its themed investigation into accidents and hazards occurring during shunting work. The investigation studied shunting accidents and hazards that occurred between 1 January 2019 and 30 April 2020. Of these incidents, 13 accidents and hazards from 1 September 2019 to 30 April 2020 were selected for more detailed investigation. Determining what impact the involved individuals as well as the activities and safety management of organizations had on the incidents was a key part of the study.

“Many accidents and hazards occur in connection with shunting operations every year. Even though speeds are low during the actual shunting work, trains passing at high speed can collide with cars that have been derailed or have rolled too far in the switching area”, says Investigator-in-Charge Esko Värttiö.

“The financial impact of shunting accidents is significant precisely because of the large number of annual incidents. The Safety Investigation Authority wanted to survey these accidents and hazards to identify gaps in safety that could be addressed to improve the overall safety of shunting work”, Head of Investigation Team Lasse Laatta adds.

The investigation revealed that many factors, such as the large number of operators involved, different operational cultures, guidelines and the compatibility of instructions, communications, the compatibility and usability of railway information systems, training practices in the industry, along with conditions on rail yards, such as poor lighting, contribute to the high incidence of shunting accidents and hazards.

The Safety Investigation Authority issues a total of nine recommendations for improving the safety of shunting work, addressing the aforementioned non-conformities in safety. The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency should ensure the implementation of these recommendations.

Further information:

Esko Värttiö, Investigator-in-Charge, tel. +358 2951 50708

Lasse Laatta, Head of Investigation Team, tel. +358 2951 50709