Published: 10.08.2026.

What is Peer Review?

Peer Review is a professional evaluation process carried out by the national railway accident investigation bodies of European countries. Its purpose is to assess the effectiveness and independence of an investigation body by examining its organisation, working processes and outputs, including investigation reports, safety recommendations and annual reports.

The review is based on a questionnaire completed by the investigation body, an assessment of relevant documents and internal procedures, as well as an on-site visit by international experts and interviews with the organisation’s management and staff. The purpose is not to conduct a comprehensive audit, but to identify strengths, examples of good practice and areas for potential improvement, while also promoting the exchange of experience among European national investigation bodies.

On 19 and 20 May 2026, a Peer Review of the railway accident safety investigation function of the Transport Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (hereinafter – TAIIB) was carried out in Latvia. It was organised within the framework of the common Peer Review programme of the European Network of National Investigation Bodies in accordance with the requirements of Article 22 of Directive (EU) 2016/798 on railway safety.

The assessment was carried out by experts from the national investigation bodies of Romania, the Czech Republic and Germany. Representatives of the European Union Agency for Railways and investigation bodies from other countries also participated in the process as observers.

During the Peer Review, the legal framework governing TAIIB’s activities and its institutional independence were assessed, together with the organisation of investigation work, available resources and staff competence, accident notification and decision-making procedures, practices for collecting and analysing evidence, preparation of investigation reports, monitoring of safety recommendations, as well as investigator training and occupational safety.

The expert panel concluded that TAIIB effectively performs the functions assigned to it by legislation, operates in practice with a high degree of independence, and produces high-quality investigation reports and safety recommendations. Particular strengths identified included the accident notification system, the ability to respond promptly and attend accident sites, the quality of investigation reports, cooperation between the Bureau’s departments, professional development opportunities for investigators, and the initiation of a thematic investigation into accidents at railway level crossings.

At the same time, the experts recommended improving the legal framework by establishing more specific criteria for the appointment and dismissal of the head of TAIIB, as well as considering the recruitment of a permanent human factors specialist who could support safety investigations across all modes of transport.

Full Peer Review Report in English:

Ziņojums 2026