How we investigate incidents

When an incident or accident occurs, we are most likely to conduct an investigation. Our team of inspectors works in collaboration with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) and British Transport Police (BTP) in order to share information.

RAIB carries out the investigation into rail accidents and incidents without apportioning blame or liability, with a view to enabling lessons to be learned to improve safety on railways and prevent similar accidents and incidents. We also carry out our own investigation.

RAIB and BTP make recommendations to us, as the National Safety Authority. We consider their recommendations and pass them on to dutyholders who are required to take them into consideration and where appropriate act upon them.

If deemed appropriate, we have the power to prosecute under health and safety law. More information can be found in our enforcement section.

Our health and safety strategy

We have a health and safety strategy to ensure that safety of passenger, and that appropriate risk management policies of dutyholders are in place. The term 'dutyholders' means railway operators such as Network Rail, the train and freight operating companies and contractors who have responsibilities under health and safety law.

We have developed specific key safety topics to ensure that risks are being adequately managed by duty holders.

Last updated: 10 September 2008