InnoFreight HardTop System Lacked Homologation, UTK Halts Operations

A detached HardTop cover lying in the path of a PKP Intercity train travelling at 151 km/h has already raised serious safety concerns in Poland. Now, however, attention is shifting toward another issue linked to the incident: questions surrounding the homologation and regulatory status of the system involved.

UTK Points to Homologation-Related Issues

As RAILTARGET previously reported, the incident took place on 5 April 2025 on the Susz–Prabuty section of the Polish railway network, where a detached HardTop cover from an InnoFreight MonTainer XXM container was struck by a PKP Intercity passenger train despite emergency braking. According to the published findings, the collision caused temporary lifting of the locomotive, severe pantograph damage and additional infrastructure destruction.

While the investigation identified strong side winds and operational factors among the causes of the incident, part of the discussion is now focusing on the technical approval status of the HardTop system itself.

"The investigation identified that the HardTop cover involved in the incident did not have a separate homologation, while the platform and the container itself was authorised for placing in service," UTK stated for RAILTARGET.

The statement has opened questions over how removable freight transport systems and additional loading components are assessed before entering railway operation, especially in cases where such systems are used internationally and operate alongside high-speed passenger traffic.

Questions Over Approval Procedures

According to information provided to RAILTARGET, UTK and the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) discussed the case within the Joint Network Secretariat framework. However, the JNS Panel ultimately concluded that no formal European-level procedure would be launched.

ERA stated that the panel considered existing European legislation sufficient and argued that proper implementation of current rules would have prevented the accident. At the same time, the Polish authority confirmed that the investigation also identified issues related to operational responsibility for checking the condition of the HardTop system before departure.

Safety Measures Already Introduced in Poland

Following the incident, UTK issued a Safety Alert and recommended suspending the operation of gravity-based HardTop systems in Poland until an appropriate mechanical securing solution is implemented and tested.

According to the authority, preventive recommendations have already been introduced and implemented at national level, while supervisory activities remain within UTK’s competence as the National Safety Authority.

RAILTARGET repeatedly attempted to contact InnoFreight regarding the findings of the investigation and the measures being considered following the incident. Despite multiple requests for comment, the company did not respond to our questions by the time of publication. Given the seriousness of the incident and the safety concerns raised by the investigation, the lack of communication is notable and raises further questions about the company's approach to addressing the matter publicly.