RESUMPTION OF RAIL SERVICES THROUGH WALLAN

The RTBU has written to ARTC, Pacific National (PN), V/Line and NSW Trains firmly stating our position that rail workers must be consulted prior to the resumption of services through Wallan following last week’s fatal derailment.

Last night we received written responses from ARTC and PN.

ARTC advised that would be imposing a 20km/h speed limit through Wallan. It also advised that the signalling infrastructure through Wallan was now operational.

Pacific National has advised the RTBU that it has imposed an 80kmph speed restriction between Seymour and Albury, and drivers are being instructed to adhere to an ARTC’s temporary speed restriction of 20kmph.

Furthermore, the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) HAS inspected the corridor and consented to the recommissioning of the track.

PN has since resumed services on the track.

Meanwhile, the RTBU Victorian Branch is currently in discussions with V/Line,and NSW Branch has also commenced discussions with NSW Trains.

The correspondence we received from the operators has been posted on the RTBU National website site at http://www.rtbu.org.au/update_regarding_resumption_of_rail_services_through_wallan .

We are pleased that ARTC, PN, V/Line and NSW Trains have at least taken our concerns seriously. In particular, the companies have taken action on our concerns regarding track speed and signalling.

Nevertheless, there are still more many questions that need to be answered.

As such, it is important that all workers involved in services along the corridor are fully informed, and are able to raise any safety-related concerns.

All employees have the right to a safe work environment.  If you believe that your workplace is not safe, then you have the right to refuse to conduct your duties.

If you have any concerns, please raise them with your employer AND with your RTBU Delegate or Organiser.

Your safety is our number one priority.