Latest industry figures suggest that both rail passengers and workers are benefiting from higher levels of safety.
The RSSB’s ‘Overview of safety performance for 2011‘ suggests that, rather than increasing in line with growth, the overall number of incidents is decreasing.
2011 was the fourth year in a row where there were no passenger or workforce fatalities in train accidents.
The report also shows the total number of fatalities occurring to members of the public, and not involving trespass or suicide, was equal to 2010.
Fatalities arising from trespass and suicide totalled 261 in 2011, compared to 259 in 2010.
Anson Jack, Director of Policy, Research and Risk said:
‘Trains continue to prove themselves a far safer mode of transport than cars, and the latest performance figures show rail’s natural ‘safety conscience’ continues to pay dividends to passengers, workforce and public alike.
‘There remain challenging issues – especially at level crossings and at the platform edge – and industry continues to explore opportunities to reduce risks in these areas.”
The rail industry is holding its annual Rail Safety Summit in April to ensure it keeps up to date with safety trends and new developments.
