Recommendation: 2016-004

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Ref # 2016-004
Status Closed
Occurrence Investigation into SPADs on the IÉ network from January 2012 to July 2015
Occurrence Date 01 August 2015
Date Closed 01/12/2017

Basis for Recommendation

The RAIU have made a number of observations in relation to the occurrence of Category A Signals Passed At Danger (SPADs), namely in relation to the prevalence of SPADs:

  • In the afternoon/evening;
  • At the start of driver’s shifts;
  • For drivers with 3-5 years driving experience.

As the RAIU could not determine any definite causes for these findings, the RAIU make the following safety recommendation:

Recommendation

Iarnród Éireann (Railway Undertaking) should commission an independent review, in terms of human factors, to determine why there is a prevalence for the occurrence of Signal Passed At Danger (SPADs): at certain times of the day; at certain times of drivers shifts; and for drivers with three-five years driving experience.