R2021-E2 Collision between train units during shunting operation at Tampere station on 12 December 2021

The preliminary investigation into the collision between two Sm3 train units during shunting work at the Tampere railway station on 12 December 2021 has been completed. At the time of the accident, the train unit was being transferred from the storage siding to the departure track. The accident happened when the train unit collided with another unit that was standing on the tracks at the speed of 21 km/h. In the collision, the noses of the units collapsed, and the first bogie of the second carriage from the south of the unit that was standing on the tracks was derailed.

No personal or environmental damage was caused by the accident. The material damage caused by the accident was extensive. Clearing the units took until the evening of 15 December, which caused changes to the rolling stock storage sidings at the Tampere railway station and made it more difficult to move the stock.

During the preliminary investigation, it was found that the collision was caused by insufficient preliminary information and a wrong situation picture when moving units. The train driver and the shunting work supervisor carrying out the transfer were not aware that there were two Sm3 train units on the track, and placed themselves in different units by mistake. Making observations was hindered by the visual obstructions created by the other rolling stock at the railway yard. The rush caused by the delay in other transfers of rolling stock earlier during the same shift also had its share of impact on the events.

Even though the instructions were followed during the transfer, it was not noticed during the situation that one unit was moving while the other was staying in place. The instructions do not require identifying the unit to be transferred, and it is not usually done during shunting work.

Based on the preliminary investigation, Safety Investigation Authority Finland has decided that there is no need for a full investigation.

No recommendations are issued in the preliminary investigation. However, the Safety Investigation Authority notes that there were similarities between the case and several of the individual cases investigated in the themed investigation R2019-S1, Themed investigation of shunting accidents and incidents. By paying attention to the matters highlighted in the themed investigation and the recommendations issued, the safety of shunting work can be improved significantly.