Network Rail Diesel spill Inverness signal box

Our ref: HSR

Head Office Circular: NP/307/24

19^th December 2024

To: RMT Scotland

Relevant members and branches

 

Dear Colleague

 

NETWORK RAIL – DIESEL SPILL INVERNESS SIGNAL BOX

 

I write as regards a diesel leak in the boiler room adjacent to Inverness Signal room floor during week commencing 25th November 2025. When a significant volume of diesel leaked from an overflowing fuel tank causing significant discomfort for those working in the box - as staff were required to continue working in unsafe conditions despite the overpowering presence of diesel vapours.

Initially critical safety protocols, such as notifying emergency services and ensuring proper ventilation were not followed, early clean-up efforts were superficial, limited measures were taken to address the hazard and relevant authorities and safety protocols were not promptly engaged or implemented.

 

The Worksafe procedure was invoked twice, but still Network Rail failed to effectively address staff concerns and despite evident risks, staff faced undue pressure to resume duties. It was not until RMT escalated the issue to Network Rail's H&S lead that requests for air quality testing and ventilation equipment were met. 

 

RMT NWR lead rep, Chris Knibb visited the signalling centre on 4th December 2024 and wrote a report of his findings. 

 

In relation to my concerns as to how this incident was handled, I have written to:

• NWR demanding they take action to address outstanding issues and sought assurances that measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in future
• Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to find out their understanding of the incident and to ask whether they plan to visit or investigate the incident.

 

On 17^th December 2024, your NEC (National Executive Committee) met to consider these matters and agreed the following resolution:

                   

We note that a level 2 investigation is to be conducted by Network Rail, to be concluded by February 2025. 

 

We further note that Bro’ Chris Knibb our Lead National Operations Safety Representative is to meet with the ORR on 9^th January 2025 to discuss this matter further. 

 

We instruct the General Secretary to seek an updated report from the Lead Officer after the meeting and investigation had reported and for this to be placed before the NEC. 

 

RMT Scotland, relevant branches and affected members to be informed by text and email. 

 

I am acting in line with these instructions. 

 

Yours sincerely

 

 

 

Michael Lynch

General Secretary