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Message from Simon French, Chief Inspector of Rail Accidents

RAIB's response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis - update

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Image of Simon French, Chief Inspector of Rail Accidents sitting in office

Simon French, Chief Inspector of Rail Accidents

Since the start of the coronavirus lockdown, our team has been working effectively from home and, when essential, on railway sites and premises. We have continued to fulfil all of our investigative functions, adapting our operational processes as necessary for the safety of our staff and others.

Our offices have now reopened for business, although some of our colleagues will continue to work from home. Additional measures are in place to make the workplace COVID-secure, in accordance with government guidelines.

The railway industry should continue to notify RAIB of accidents and incidents, via the normal channels, in accordance with the Railways (Accident Investigation and Reporting) Regulations 2005. We will respond to this information as usual.

The next few months will be challenging and we will continue to adapt our operations in line with any changes to the guidance. Our site activities will remain limited to those which are absolutely necessary for investigations and we will continue to minimise contact between our staff and others. We will also be conducting more interviews and consultation meetings by phone or other remote means. As the situation evolves I will keep you updated.

Please contact us via enquiries@raib.gov.uk if you have any questions.

I wish you all the very best.

Simon French

Updates to this page

Published 26 March 2020
Last updated 6 July 2020 + show all updates
  1. Updated COVID-19 statement from RAIB's Chief Inspector

  2. First published.