A male railway safety worker has died after being hit by an oncoming train between Purley and Coulsdon South stations on the mainline between London and Brighton
The member of railway safety staff was carrying out protection duties for engineering work on the line, when he was struck by the passenger train travelling at 70 mph.
He was placing red lamps and explosive warning devices up and down the tracks as part of his safety work at around 12:27am on 6th November.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has said it will look into the incident with a full investigation to identify the cause of the collision.
The investigation will consider:
- the reasons why the member of staff was in the place where he was struck
- the arrangements in place for his protection while he was carrying out his duties
- the risks associated with the protection of engineering work on the line
- any underlying management factors
The RAIB said: “Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry, the Office of Rail and Road, or the British Transport Police.
“We will publish our findings, including any safety recommendations, at the conclusion of our investigation.”
