The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has today published its detailed investigation into a runaway track trolley incident at North Rode, Cheshire, on 26 May 2024. The incident, which occurred around 05:00, involved a trolley running uncontrolled downhill at approximately 20 mph (32 km/h), ultimately colliding with equipment at a worksite. Fortunately, no injuries occurred, though both the trolley and equipment sustained damage.
Investigators identified that the runaway occurred because the trolley’s braking system was deliberately disabled by its operator, who was reportedly unaware of the specific risks posed at the location. The design allowed easy disabling of a safety-critical failsafe mechanism, exacerbated by ergonomically challenging brake controls that may have encouraged this unsafe practice.
Further contributing factors highlighted by the RAIB included shortcomings in Network Rail’s product acceptance procedures, which failed to adequately manage risks associated with the trolley’s design. Additionally, unclear site leadership roles contributed to ineffective risk management on-site. The RAIB also noted a known issue regarding the disabling of such braking systems, which had not been adequately addressed by the industry.
In response, RAIB has issued two safety recommendations aimed specifically at Network Rail. Firstly, in collaboration with the Rail Safety and Standards Board and the M&EE Networking Group, Network Rail must urgently implement controls to prevent disabling of trolley braking systems. Secondly, Network Rail should improve how safety lessons from accidents are communicated and implemented.
Two key learning points were emphasised: ensuring staff fully understand the dangers of disabling trolley brakes, and reinforcing the essential role of controllers of site safety in observing and advising trackside workers directly.
The RAIB’s comprehensive report seeks to enhance future railway safety standards and practices, emphasising that the purpose of their investigations is not to assign blame but rather to prevent recurrence.
