The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released a report including video footage of a near-miss between a c2c train and a lorry at Mucking level crossing in Essex.
On Wednesday 13th March 2019 around noon a c2c passenger train went through Mucking level crossing in Essex just a few seconds after a partially loaded concrete delivery lorry reversed clear.
The lorry was trying to enter a Network Rail construction site, and the lorry driver followed hand signals from a railway worker after red stop lights had begun flashing. The barrier came down onto the lorry. The level crossing barrier was lifted clear by site staff before the truck then reversed off the crossing. The train passed over the level crossing a few seconds later.
Following the incident the Amey Inabensa joint venture modified procedures following a briefing note issued by Network Rail.
What did the officials say?
Simon French, Chief Inspector of Rail Accidents said:
“This report describes a near-miss that could so easily have turned into a disaster. Safety at automatic level crossings depends on users following the Highway Code, and not entering the crossing after the flashing lights and audible signals have started. In this case the driver of a lorry loaded with concrete followed hand signals from a railway worker and drove his vehicle onto the crossing as the lights began to flash. The lorry reversed clear just six seconds before a train passed.
“The interface between railway companies and contractors can create significant risks if it is not properly managed. It is important that railway staff, who should know how to do the job safely, take the lead in making contractors aware of the hazards that go with working near the track. No matter how small the job or the site, it only takes one concrete mixer to create the conditions for a catastrophic accident. Although the road vehicle driver had a legal duty to stop at the red flashing lights, in this case he should not have been put in such a position by taking his lead from a railway worker waving him on. Proper planning prevents poor performance.”
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That level crossing near Mucking is very notorious for accidents waiting to happen. Even the pedestrian level crossing at Grays some 7 miles away towards London Fenchurch Street.