Risk Assessment Buffer Stop or Arresting Device Collision

1
Risk Assessment Buffer Stop or Arresting Device
Collision

• Arresting Device and Buffer Stop
• Arresting Device An assembly provided at the end
  of a track to arrest an overrunning train, other
  than a buffer stop
• Buffer Stop An assembly provided at the end of a
  track to arrest an overrunning train, designed to
  take the impact of the train at buffer or
  coupling height
• Types of buffer stops
• Fixed mass concrete, steel,
• Single mode energy absorbing friction,
  hydraulic, visco -elastic
• Dual mode energy absorbing friction hydraulic,
  friction visco -elastic
• Risk Assessment
• Consider the different effects of a buffer stop
  collision
• Average approaches per day
• Risk to workforce on train
• Hazardous products
• Historical buffer stop collisions
• Normal stopping position distance from buffer
  stop
• Permissible speed on approach to buffer stop
• Gradient on approach to buffer stop
• Visibility, good illumination, countdown markers,
  type and age of buffer
• Driver distraction (e.g. noise)
• Weather conditions and low adhesion

2
Required checklist

• Is there a risk assessment done on the buffer
  stops and arresting devices of all terminal
  tracks?
• Is there a necessity for end impact walls on
  site?
• Are the buffer stops compatible with the buffers
  of the cars?
• Are mobile buffer stops used and is there a
  procedure for using them?
• Are there specific rules and speed limits for
  approaching buffer stops or arresting devices?
• Are impact marks visual on buffer stops or
  arresting devices?
• Are collisions reported?
• During the driver training, buffer stops and
  arresting devices are discussed?
• Do all terminal tracks have buffer stops (BS) or
  arresting devices (AD)?
• Is there an inspection on BS and AD?

This document has to be used as a help before
starting the work or performing a SFA