Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) Chief Commissioner Greg Hood has reinforced the 2016 Rail Safety Week message that rail safety is everyone’s responsibility.
The 11th Rail Safety Week will take place nationally from 15–21 August 2016.
“Rail safety is ultimately everyone’s responsibility, whether you are a member of the public, rail worker or rail operator,” Mr Hood said.
“If you are a passenger, stand behind the yellow or white line on the platform at all times. When on board a train, hold on to something, be sensible, pay attention and be alert—and courteous.
“At level crossings, trains can come at any time and from either direction so pedestrians and drivers—commercial and others—need to be fully aware of their surroundings.
“Mobile devices occupy much of our time these days, but getting that text away in a flash can result in tragedy.”
Mr Hood said the ATSB would be happier having fewer rail accidents to investigate, such as the fatal level crossing collision between a train and truck at Narromine in NSW in 2015. From its investigation, the ATSB identified areas of potential improvement related to road design, especially curved approaches before railway crossings.
Mr Hood said Rail Safety Week was not just about the public taking greater responsibility, but rail workers too.
“Rail workers have a right to come home every night after work but they need to be absolutely vigilant when working on or near tracks,” he said.
“This means effective communications amongst all workers at all times. Trains can’t stop quickly and any breakdown in the communication or management of a worksite can leave workers extremely vulnerable.”
Mr Hood said the ATSB was united with the rail industry, government, road safety and police partners in promoting safety in and around the rail network.
Death and injury on rail networks are avoidable if people obey the rules and remain aware and alert at all times.
For more information visit Rail Safety Week 2016 or the ATSB’s Safe Work on Rail You Tube video.