24.07.12
UK railway one of the safest in Europe – ORR
Passenger safety is improving on the railways, with the rate of harm reduced to the lowest level ever recorded, the ORR has reported. The UK network was praised for being “one of the safest railways in Europe”.
The data is published today in the 2012 Health and Safety Report, and shows the overall rate of passenger harm has decreased by 12% over the past year.
On London Underground, Overground and the Docklands Light Railway, there were no workforce or industry-caused deaths in 2011/12. Recorded harm from level crossings was also reduced by 15% overall.
However, the number of potentially higher risk train accidents increased from 18 to 34, and the level of harm to train drivers and crew increased by 4%.
ORR’s director of rail safety, Ian Prosser, said: “Our 2012 health and safety report shows thatBritaincontinues to have one of the safest railways inEurope. Indeed, safety on our railways is improving in key areas, with latest data highlighting that passenger harm has reduced to its lowest ever recorded level.
“However, over the past year we have had to step in to ensure safety on mainline and heritage lines, and train and freight services. It is vital that the whole rail industry continues to work together, builds on its successes, and tackles areas where there is room for improvement.”
Prosser explained the focus for the next year would be to make greater use of “proactive, forward-looking safety systems”, implementing organisational change safely and embedding a professional culture that promotes health and safety.
He concluded: “This will be the key to long-term sustainable success.”
To view the report, visit: www.rail-reg.gov.uk/upload/pdf/health-safety-report-2012.pdf
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]
Image c. Alvey and Towers