Railway related deaths

Noted (AI summary) Bombardier Transportation (now Alstom) has completed a door vulnerability assessment, performed design reviews for current and future tram door systems, and engaged with suppliers regarding enhancements. They plan to finalize improvement actions and recommendations for door strengthening for both in-service and new tram fleets by March 2022, and engage with authorities to review UK regulation for light rail doors by April 2022. Transport for London has already procured, developed, and installed a bespoke Physical Prevention of Overspeed System (PPOS) on the London Tram network, reducing the risk of overturning by 76%. They are also investigating the feasibility of strengthening tram doors and will incorporate learnings into future fleet specifications. Tram Operations Ltd is already a member of CIRAS (Confidential Reporting for Safety) for anonymous staff reporting and publicises this to staff. Regarding passenger ejection through doors, they confirm they do not own the trams but welcome discussions with London Trams and would support implementation of strengthening if feasible. Transport Focus clarifies its limited remit and resources to initiate a centrally funded national tram passenger safety group. They state they will engage with operators on passenger safety issues brought to their notice and support any such group initiated by another body. The Department for Transport reports that the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB) has published guidance on driver inattention and speed management, and all tram networks in England now subscribe to the Confidential Incident Reporting & Analysis System (CIRAS). DfT is also consulting on establishing a national tram safety group and supports LRSSB's planned work on automatic braking systems, door strengthening standards, and promoting CIRAS. The Light Rail Safety and Standards Board is engaging with European Standards working groups to inform regulation on tram door security and crashworthiness, and plans to consult with TfL/London Trams to determine remedial actions. LRSSB will then publish a briefing or guidance note for the sector, with timelines to be confirmed. The LRSSB has published new Light Rail Guidance on Driver Inattention (LG3) and Light Rail Standards on Speed Management Systems (LS4), incorporating RAIB recommendations. They have also commissioned a trial of specific technology for driver inattention and speed management, with outcomes expected by January 2022. The Light Rail Safety and Standards Board confirms that all seven UK tramways already subscribe to the Confidential Incident Reporting & Analysis System (CIRAS). LRSSB further plans to produce a tramway-specific guidance note and communication campaign to promote the benefits of such schemes to front-line staff by March 2022.

Noted (AI summary) Nottinghamshire County Council asserts its duty to protect public highway rights regarding level crossings, clarifies the roles of Network Rail and the public in crossing closures, and states it has been supportive of safety improvements. Derbyshire County Council provides an explanation of their previous involvement in a 2003 proposal to divert Public Footpath No.7, and clarifies that they will work with other agencies to improve safety across the County. Network Rail acknowledged past unsuccessful attempts to change level crossings in the area and expressed willingness to work with local authorities to find potential solutions. Broxtowe Borough Council has scheduled a meeting with Network Rail to seek potential solutions to concerns raised, and will provide further information after the meeting. Erewash Borough Council stated that they previously supported Network Rail's Level Crossing Closures Programme, and would still not oppose the closure of the Barton Road crossing if Network Rail recommends it, though they prefer an accessible footbridge.

Noted (AI summary) Network Rail clarifies that Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) is responsible for signage at Preston Park station under the terms of their lease and that Network Rail supports safety awareness programmes, including the 'You vs Train' film, and runs seasonal publicity campaigns warning about the risks of excessive alcohol intake on the railway. GTR has enhanced training for Help Point Assessment, including functional tasks and a competency management system. Information resources now include access to a 'Track Access' system and the Stations Made Easy section of National Rail Enquiries.

Noted (AI summary) Network Rail states that instructions *are* provided to signallers, and closing the crossing would require agreement from the authorised user, for which compensation has been offered. They have also contacted the public rights of way officer at Gloucestershire County Council to consider the feasibility of extinguishing or diverting the bridleway.

Noted (AI summary) The Department acknowledges the concerns raised and explains the NHS's role in commissioning services and targets for psychological therapies. They reference guidance for therapists on managing client confidentiality and risk, emphasizing the importance of acting within their expertise and seeking advice when necessary. They highlight government initiatives for suicide prevention.