The accident in the Gotthard Base Tunnel on 10 August 2023 had far-reaching consequences for both Switzerland and SBB. Rail traffic was restricted over a long period, the damage was high at CHF 150 million. The final report by the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (STSB) concluded that an undetected crack caused a wheel to fracture. Such a breakage can reoccur. Various near accidents in Europe have demonstrated the risk factors that can lead to cracks and possible fractures: a too small wheel diameter, wheels overheating due to composite brake blocks, excessively long intervals between inspections.

Rail freight traffic is in principle one of the safest transport systems. However, the accident exposed a systemic problem. Systemic problems can only be resolved by the relevant authorities in Switzerland and Europe introducing appropriate regulations. Over recent months, SBB has been involved in dialogue with the freight traffic sector and, together with the partners involved, with the Federal Office of Transport (FOT).

FOT regulations reduce the risk of future accidents

SBB welcomes the new FOT regulations (see FOT press release). They reduce the risk of future accidents. Both railway undertaking (RUs) and firms involved in freight wagon maintenance are obliged to comply with these regulations.

Safety is SBB's top priority. That's why the company announced in June 2025 that it would no longer be transporting freight wagons fitted with LL brake blocks (Press release STSB report: «SBB demands action» | SBB News).

SBB will be implementing the regulations introduced by the FOT. They will allow SBB to continue transporting freight wagons whatever type of brake blocks they have fitted. These measures will improve the long-term safety of freight services, but SBB nevertheless intends to introduce more stringent inspections.

The new FOT regulations apply to all RUs and the freight wagons they transport on the Swiss rail network. The measures will have little effect outside of Switzerland, which is why SBB is encouraging the European authorities to also adopt the Swiss measures.

Moreover, in the medium to long term, SBB believes it will be necessary to change liability laws in railway freight traffic, particularly with regard to damage such as wheel fractures. An appropriate share of liability on the part of wagon keepers would further increase safety in the rail system: they would have a interest in investing more than the minimum required in monitoring, maintaining and modernising their wagons.