2015 Q5 Accident causes, precautions, investigation

[dorothy.pipet]

An attempt for comments please.
This was done under timed conditions but with some notes to hand.

[Jerry1237]

Dorothy

The basis of an answer is there with some good points raised. The paper seems light - is P2 missing?

Nowhere is the accident described. Also, many have suggested using infamous accidents is not always an ideal solution. The reasoning being most people are very familiar, have their own opinions on causes and it is hard under exam techniques to cover all the bases. An example is the first driver stopped when he saw an unexpected aspect. Rules didn't require this and the track he stopped on effectively made the train disappear. If he stopped at Clapham platform and reported as per the rules, it is possible the accident that did happen wouldn't have! I've used Staplehurst (1865) previously but it wouldn't be apt for this question as it is an ops/process based accident. It is clear that you have listed some of the root causes but more emphasis on fatigue would be recommended. One of the outcomes, which partial answers part 2, is the IRSE Licenses which were part of the Clapham fall-out, as were working hour restrictions, clearer design and test processes...

Part 3 - Interview should be all staff not just train staff, i.e. signallers, track workers, ops. Initial interviews should rapidly undertaken post-accident. It is imperative to record the scene: photos; sketches, as well as gather evidence.

Hope you find the above useful.

Jerry