Train operator fined for safety failings

Melvyn Cox, a train driver with 40 years’ experience, has also received a four-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months.

ORR investigated an incident involving a steam locomotive operated by WCRC between Bristol and Southall, which passed a signal at danger near Wootton Bassett junction in Wiltshire. The train stopped almost 700 metres after the signal, across a busy junction on the Great Western main line.

ORR inspectors found significant failings in WCRC’s managerial controls. The company had not implemented appropriate procedures, training or monitoring of staff to stop intentional misuse of the Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS) equipment.

Our evidence showed the train’s driver Melvyn Cox directed a colleague to turn off this essential safety system, designed to automatically apply an emergency brake.

WCRC and Melvyn Cox both pleaded Guilty at Swindon Crown Court today.

Ian Prosser, HM Chief Inspector of Railways said:

Train operating companies and their drivers hold positions of great responsibility, with a duty to protect the safety of colleagues and passengers. Almost all undertake their roles in accordance with the rules and their training.

West Coast Railway Company’s (WCRC) ineffective management led to their train driver deliberately misusing a key safety system on a train travelling between Bristol and Southall.

This prosecution has led to WCRC taking significant steps to improve its management of safety, with support from the regulator.

Rail safety remains one of the regulator’s key priorities and we will always take action against companies or individuals if failings are found.

Notes to editors

1. The Office of Rail and Road is the UK’s rail regulator and strategic roads monitor for England. Follow us @railandroad.
2. ORR protects the interests of rail and road users; improving the safety, value and performance of railways and roads, today and in the future.
3. West Coast Railway Company (WCRC) was fined £200,000 and ordered to pay costs of £64,000.
4. The train’s driver, Melvyn Cox received a four-month custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months.
5. ORR prosecuted West Coast Railway Company Limited for a breach of Section 2(1) and Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA) and Melvyn Cox for breaches of Section 7(a) and Section 8 of the same Act.
6. In July 2016, ORR will be publishing latest health and safety data and analysis in our annual health and safety report.