CN-Exo Collision: Rail Safety & ATC in Canada

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Introduction

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) released its investigation report on the November 21, 2023, collision involving a CN train and an Exo commuter train at the St-Leonard-Montreal-Nord station in Montreal.

Collision Investigation

The TSB’s investigation revealed that the CN train crew had passed a restricting signal, which mandated reduced speed and readiness to halt. Despite this, the crew accelerated the train, assuming the track ahead was clear. The collision occurred when the stationary commuter train became visible, leaving insufficient time to prevent impact and subsequent derailment, according to TSB officials.

Safety Recommendations

The TSB emphasized the “urgent need” for Canadian railways to implement physical fail-safe train controls. These systems are designed to automatically slow or halt trains when crews fail to recognize or correctly interpret signal indications.

Incident Details

The accident took place on November 21, 2023, at the St-Leonard-Montreal-Nord station in Montreal. The collision involved a CN train and an Exo commuter train.

Findings Summary

The investigation concluded that the CN train crew’s actions, specifically disregarding a restricting signal, led to the collision. The absence of automatic train control systems contributed to the severity of the incident.

Conclusion

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) investigated the November 21, 2023, collision between a CN train and an Exo commuter train. The investigation highlighted the crew’s failure to adhere to signal indications and the need for automatic train control systems.

Company Summary

Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB): The TSB is an independent agency responsible for investigating transportation occurrences to advance transportation safety.

CN: CN is a major Canadian railway company.

Exo: Exo is a commuter rail service.

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