First two speakers confirmed for Rail Safety Summit 2014

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First Capital Connect’s (FCC) managing director, David Statham, and Network Rail’s programme director track, Steve Featherstone, are to speak at this year’s Rail Safety Summit.

Steve Featherstone_Nigel headshot
Steve Featherstone

The annual event, which this year will be held at the Royal College of Physicians in London, will see a series of leading industry figures debate some of the key issues affecting track worker and passenger safety in the UK.

Steve Featherstone, who is responsible for Network Rail’s track renewal programme, will explore how different tiers of suppliers manage conflicting safety policies.

David Statham will look at managing passenger behaviour to improve safety, having led the development of FirstGroup’s strategy for the expanded Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern franchise.

[pullquote]Rail Safety Summit will provide us with an opportunity to talk about how we can continue to put safety at the forefront of everything we do.[/pullquote]In its 2013 health and safety report, the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR) presented an improving picture of rail safety but urged the industry not to become complacent following serious incidents in Spain, France and Canada in the past year.

Rail Safety Summit 2014 will explore issues such as the developing focus on occupational health, the role of new technology and the principles of safety by design.

Tom O’Connor, managing director of event organiser Rail Media, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to announce the first two speakers for this year’s event. Between them, David and Steve are responsible for ensuring the safety of both those who work on the track and those who ride over it.

David Statham
David Statham

“What has happened at Dawlish and in other parts of England in the last couple of months are examples of the mammoth challenges that can test those who maintain and construct Britain’s railway. Throughout it all, safety has remained the central concern and the Rail Safety Summit will provide us with an opportunity to talk about how we can continue to put safety at the forefront of everything we do.”

The Rail Safety Summit is being held at the Royal College of Physicians, London, on April 28. Click here for more information.

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