KiwiRail has assured passengers and staff that it is safe for trains to continue running through the Remutaka Tunnel after reports of visible dust in carriages.
The operator appointed independent air quality experts to carry out tests last week, with the results showing “very low” levels of respirable dust including silica.
KiwiRail said the dust, which had been reported by train managers working on the Wairarapa Line, was likely disturbed by construction activity in the Remutaka Tunnel earlier this year.
Based on the evidence so far, KiwiRail Chief Metro and Capital Programme Officer David Gordon said that they do not believe that there is any risk to passengers and staff.
However, they have agreed with the experts’ recommendation for further monitoring to be carried out, which will take place next week.
“Silica is a material that has always been present in ballast and was disturbed when we replaced kilometres of ballast during our tunnel upgrade last summer,” said Gordon.
“KiwiRail proactively commissioned the independent report. We are following the guidance of air quality experts by doing further monitoring to ensure we have a comprehensive range of data and are clear on next steps.
“KiwiRail will also arrange an independent review of its dust management procedures.”
The experts have recommended personal monitoring, with onboard staff temporarily wearing equipment that measures the air quality in their breathing zone and collects data over a range of days, times and areas of the train.
Metlink group manager Samantha Gain said Metlink is increasing the cleaning schedule of all Wairarapa trains and checking that all seals are working correctly.
“Passengers may notice personal monitoring equipment being worn by staff over the coming weeks, and we want our passengers to know that we have confidence in the safety of our services,” Gain said.
KiwiRail and Metlink rail operator Transdev take health and safety seriously, a spokesperson said.
“With the support of the Rail and Maritime Transport Union (RTMU), [we are] taking this step to monitor air quality in the carriages and trains, as well as looking at other medium to long term actions that might reduce the presence of dust,” they said.
“KiwiRail, Transdev and Metlink will continue to work together in consultation with the RMTU, to ensure the continued safety of staff and passengers and will share the results of the testing.”
Rail and Maritime Transport Union spokesperson Karen Fletcher said the source of the dust needs to be addressed to prevent it from getting into the train carriages and cab.
“Servicing, maintenance, cleaning staff and workers who enter the tunnel to fix faults will all need to wear respiratory protection until the source of the dust is contained.”
