The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is joining over 90 organisations around Australia in promoting the message of Rail Safety Week 2019: ‘Rail safety – it’s everyone’s responsibility’, across 12–18 August.
Now in its 14th year, Rail Safety Week is a nationwide initiative to remind the community to be aware when interacting with the rail network at all times – as road users and passengers – and to encourage safe behaviour.
The ATSB’s messages over Rail Safety Week will emphasise that potential dangers exist around a railway, including light rail.
The ATSB’s Chief Commissioner Greg Hood said Rail Safety Week was an important opportunity to bring the issue of rail safety to the attention of all Australians.
“As part of the ATSB’s efforts to promote Rail safety Week, we will be highlighting the safety messages of some of our investigations undertaken which tie directly to this year’s theme,” Mr. Hood said. “Rail safety is everyone’s responsibility, year-round. Please keep in mind this safety advice, not just for this week, but throughout the year.”
Please be patient and adhere to the signals and warnings signs at all level and pedestrian crossings.
The ATSB specifically reminds motorists, motorcyclists, cyclists, truck drivers, and pedestrians to take the utmost precautions when using level crossings.
“The ATSB has been called to investigate rail incidents and accidents that have resulted in serious injuries and the loss of life,” Mr Hood said. “Please be patient and adhere to the signals and warnings signs at all level and pedestrian crossings.”
The ATSB is the nation’s independent ‘no-blame’ rail safety investigator. Our investigations aim to determine what and why an accident happened, identify ongoing safety risks, and to influence safety actions to address those safety issues.
For more information, visit Rail Safety Week 2019’s website