At the end of 2024, a Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) investigation was launched looking into a trap and drag incident which occurred at Ealing Broadway in November 2024.

The doors of a westbound Elizabeth Line train closed on a passenger’s hand, which dragged them about 12 metres along the platform before they were freed.

An appeal was launched for witnesses to help them better understand the events leading up to the incident and what went wrong.

RAIB attempted to contact the passenger involved; however, was unable to do so, but it is likely that the passenger sustained minor injuries.

The investigation revealed that the doors were closed while passengers were still moving on and off the train, leading to the doors not detecting a blockage and for the driver to depart.

The control risk measures were ineffective at the station, and it may have been possible that a thorough enough risk assessment was not undertaken following the relocation of the waiting room.

Another indirect assessment was made regarding the lack of effective communication and poor connectivity between the driver, station staff and signaller, resulting in a lack of understanding of the situation.

RAIB has made the following recommendations:

• Improve understanding and control of trap and drag events
• Enhance views of the platform-train interface
• Investigate technological enhancements which could be put in place to reduce the risk of trap and drag incidents
• The Rail Safety and Standards Board is to ensure the rail industry standard for DOO CCTV incorporates the latest practice
• Ensure Elizabeth line station platforms have been evaluated accordingly