Train Protection Systems
The Joint Inquiry was established shortly after the Ladbroke Grove accident and during the course of the Southall Inquiry.
The Joint Inquiry into Train Protection Systems was established following the Ladbroke Grove rail accident on October 5, 1999. This inquiry was conducted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and aimed to examine broader safety issues on the railways, particularly focusing on train protection systems and signals passed at danger (SPAD).
The inquiry was a response to both the Ladbroke Grove and Southall rail accidents, and it sought to identify common factors and recommend improvements to enhance railway safety. The findings and recommendations from this inquiry contributed to the development and implementation of the Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS) to prevent similar accidents in the future1.
Key numbers at a glance
36
Recommendations
13
Months to complete
Cost in millions (if known)
Deaths (direct)
Recommendations
Finding | Description |
Inadequate Train Protection | Existing train protection systems were found to be inadequate in preventing accidents like SPADs. |
Need for TPWS | There was a strong recommendation for the implementation of the Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS). |
Safety Culture Issues | The inquiry identified a lack of a safety culture within Railtrack, contributing to accidents. |
Signal Passed at Danger (SPAD) | SPAD incidents were a significant cause of rail accidents, highlighting the need for better protection systems. |
Recommendations for Improvement |
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