Basis for Recommendation
In relation to the near miss with the patrol ganger, a certain element of risk seems to be acceptable in relation to track patrolling; given that known dangers are not being challenged or adequately mitigated by patrol gangers or their manager. Also, given the numbers of patrol lengths being foot patrolled on a weekly basis (approximately 200) without any change in process over the years, despite improvements to the railway (Continuous Welded Rail) and increased risks due improvements in rolling stock (e.g. quieter trains). The mechanisation of plain line inspection would remove patrol staff from a large proportion of their exposure to risk and should be considered. As a result, the RAIU make the following safety recommendation: