Recommendation: 2019004-17

Basis for Recommendation

The RRVC can control more than one RRV under the certain conditions, however, there is no limit set for the number of RRVs which a RRVC can control at one time, meaning that, in theory the RRVC can control any number of RRVs at one time. The RAIU investigation has found that the RRVCs struggle with controlling large convoys and an informal system of having an RRVC in the front and last RRVs of the convoy (i.e. two RRVCs present) has been adopted by some areas. In addition, the RAIU found that the lack of supervision of RRVs was contributory to a number of accidents, through either the lack of direct supervision, breaking the rules of the IÉ Rule Book. The issue with the number of RRVCs was identified as in problem in 2014, by both the CRR and IÉ-IM, with both parties making recommendations, however, they were never implemented. As a result, the RAIU make the following safety recommendation:

Recommendation

IÉ-IM should clearly define, document and explain the role and function of the RRVC in the management of RRVs in Section Q of the IÉ Rule Book and/or relevant CCE Plant and Machinery Standards. This should include:

• Location of RRVC when on-tracking, during work, and off-tracking;
• The sighting requirements of RRVCs (i.e. an RRVC should be able to see RRVs in their control at all times);
• The allocation of RRVCs per quantity RRVs (i.e. how many RRVs per RRVs).