Quote:
Originally Posted by TRP
......on the Train Truckers TV series following the work of Allely's, I recall that most of the loading and unloading was undertaken using only the winch cable.
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Yep I agree Tony.
Not really a problem if it's done in a quiet corner. But it shouldn't occur where there's a chance, however slight, of the vehicle rolling into an area where there are people or out onto a running line.
I have a modicum of sympathy for the truck drivers. They turn up to a site in order to collect or deliver a heavy loco or a carriage, and are effectively at the 'mercy' of whatever the railway provides them with. The Rulebook should make the railway operators provide a SAFE environment.
H&S regs already require this, but it should be written into every preserved railway's operating procedures.
I think also that the railway should designate a qualified 'Movement Supervisor' (or whatever) with full authority & responsibility for the rail vehicle. They should know about train rigging and brakes - the truck driver is only there to get the the loco/carriage on and off his trailer.
Trains are far more complicated than the layman realises, and they require specialist knowledge. It's not rocket science, but even a 'little' carrriage can weigh 20 tonnes and if it moves when you didn't want it to, people can get hurt.
Fortunately this accident (which it technically is since barrier gates were damaged) has highlited the inadequate procedures that are widespread, before anybody got hurt. That's a good thing.
Cheers, John