The Swiss Federal Office for Transport (FOT) indicated about two months ago that it would stick to its own wagon wheel safety rules and appeal an earlier court decision. This came in spite of commonly agreed European rules. The Swiss rules are more strict and more costly to implement. Wagon owners are not happy.
The rules stem from the derailment in the Gotthard Base Tunnel in August 2023. The Swiss Safety Investigation Board (SUST) documented that a broken wheel caused the incident. Following the event, the FOT tightened ultrasonic inspection frequency and tolerance thresholds. The European Union Agency for Railways (ERA), in contrast, advocates more flexible common standards.
Wagon owners say the Swiss rules impose additional maintenance costs and that the same wagon deemed adequate in the EU sometimes cannot enter Switzerland. The FOT, however, maintains that national safety authority prevails over EU acquis. The sector is calling on the European Commission to mediate between the EU and Switzerland. The divergence directly affects operational efficiency on north-south European corridors.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Swiss FOT has maintained its own wagon wheel safety rules despite commonly agreed European rules.
2. The rules were tightened after the August 2023 Gotthard Base Tunnel derailment.
3. The Swiss rules are more strict and more costly to implement.
4. Wagon owners complain about extra maintenance costs and cross-border friction.
5. The European Commission is being asked to mediate.
