Report 21/2007: Derailment of a tram, Seaton
Derailment of a tram on the Seaton tramway, Devon, 18 March 2007.
A tram was approaching Seaton station on the Seaton tramway when it derailed at the points at the entry to the station. There were no injuries as a result of the incident.
The immediate cause of the derailment was the left-hand switch of the point lying open, possibly caused by unknown persons placing an object in the points. Contributory factors were a lack of visual indication to the driver of the position of the points, and the design of the points.
RAIB has made two recommendations aimed at:
- the design of the point lever at Seaton station; and
- the provision of visual indicators for drivers on the position of the points.
Response to recommendations:
- RAIB will periodically update the status of recommendations as reported to us by the relevant safety authority or public body.
- RAIB may add comment, particularly if we have concerns regarding these responses.