Accident analysis of train-vehicle collision at rail an‎d road level crossings using a combined human factors analysis an‎d systems theory model (HFACS-STAMP)

10/18/2025 12:00:00 AM

Accidents at railway level crossings in Iran, due to their human an‎d material losses, represent a significant challenge in the field of railway transportation safety. This study aimed to identify the root causes of these accidents an‎d propose practical solutions to enhance the safety of level crossings. Given the high frequency of incidents in this area, reducing accidents an‎d improving safety at these crossings is of utmost importance. In this research, data on level crossing accidents from 2013 to 2023 were collected from the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways an‎d analyzed using data mining techniques. This analysis led to the identification of high-risk level crossings. Subsequently, an accident at the high-risk “Gol-Tappeh” level crossing in the Varamin-Behram route was selec‎ted as a case study an‎d analyzed using the combined HFACS-STAMP method. This hybrid approach, applied for the first time in the context of level crossings in Iran, enabled a comprehensive examination of both human errors an‎d systemic failures. The HFACS analysis revealed that human errors, such as the inattention of the van driver an‎d the untimely response of the train operator, along with preconditions like radio communication failure, played a critical role in the accident. Additionally, unsafe supervision an‎d organizational influences, such as inadequate training an‎d poor equipment maintenance, were identified. On the other han‎d, the STAMP model highlighted control deficiencies, such as the absence of automated systems an‎d weaknesses in feedback loops. The findings of this study indicate that level crossing accidents result from a combination of human errors, systemic deficiencies, an‎d organizational weaknesses. To improve safety, regular personnel training, preventive equipment maintenance, an‎d enhanced collaboration among relevant organizations (e.g., railways, road authorities, an‎d police) are essential. Furthermore, the adoption of modern technologies, such as automated warning systems, can contribute to accident reduction. The combined HFACS-STAMP model was identified as an effective tool for comprehensive accident analysis an‎d the development of practical solutions. This research, by introducing a novel framework for analyzing railway accidents, represents a significant step toward enhancing the safety of level crossings in Iran.

گذرگاه‌هاي همسطح , تحليل سوانح , ايمني , راه‌آهن

Level Crossing , Accident Analysis , HFACS_STAMP , Railway , safety

Arash Sadeghipour

Hamidreza Ahadi