Collision between on-track machines near Strood
Investigation into a collision between on-track machines near Strood, Kent, 16 November 2023.
The site of the accident (courtesy of Babcock Rail).
At around 04:38 hrs on 16 November 2023, a railway multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) collided with a stationary tamper near Strood on High Speed 1. The collision occurred at around 12 mph (20 km/h). At the time of the collision, the tamper was being prepared for coupling to a second MPV, which was standing beyond it. An operator was positioned between the tamper and the second MPV as part of preparation for coupling.
The collision caused the two stationary vehicles to move along the track and to strike the operator, who sustained injuries requiring hospital treatment. Three of the staff on the vehicles were knocked over by the impact but did not sustain injuries. The MPV which initially collided with the tamper sustained minor damage.
Our investigation will seek to identify the sequence of events that led to the accident. It will also consider:
- the actions of those involved and anything which may have influenced them
- the management of the railway staff involved in the accident, including their training and competence
- the method of operation in use when the collision occurred and the policies and procedures in place for managing such operations
- any underlying management factors
Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the rail industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.
We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.
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