04.09.13
European project to boost station security
New European research is set to ensure the construction safer stations, considering how to reduce the risks of general crime, fire and even terrorism.
The first stage of the project is requesting public views on a range of issues, including: staffing levels, CCTV, lighting, public announcements, luggage restrictions and baggage screening. This will help to identify priorities for security.
SecureStations will be led by the University of Sheffield and include defence specialists, risk management consultants and TOCs across Europe. Research will cover modelling the flow of air and fumes in station environments, pedestrian behaviour during evacuation and shockwaves from explosions to better inform secure station design.
Dr David Fletcher from the University of Sheffield’s Faculty of Engineering, one of the UK partners in the project, said: “Changes to increase security often go unnoticed by the public, but some can be more intrusive, perhaps bringing delay or a loss of privacy.
“Working across the EU we’re finding out which station security options have greatest public acceptability, so we’re asking for input from transport users to find out what people really think.
“Although it’s easy to assume any measure is worth taking if it increases passenger security. The reality is that a balance has to be found to improve security while avoiding disproportionate impact on people’s daily journeys.”
Co-researcher from the University of Sheffield, Dr Emma Carter, explained: “Options such as increasing CCTV coverage, employing a greater number of security personnel or good station design are all ways to improve security. Each option will vary in cost, effectiveness and perceived loss of privacy by passengers. If the survey shows that privacy is more important to passengers than cost, for example, then this could influence how attractive particular security options are for the railway business.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]
Image c. BTP