Road (Highways Safety) related deaths

Noted (AI summary) National Highways expresses sympathy and highlights existing measures to improve safety, including public awareness campaigns and the Smart Motorway Safety Evidence Stocktake and Action Plan. They urge road users to inform themselves about emergency procedures and who to contact.

Noted (AI summary) GMP is creating a training schedule to deliver an Initial Pursuit course (IPP) to traffic officers over the next 6-9 months, a 4-day tactical phase commanders' course in the final stages of design, and training for Team 3 dispatch operators, which is planned to take place within the next 6-9 months. No content in response. Cheshire Constabulary, as lead force of the NWMPG, will deliver a training package regarding command protocols for cross-border pursuits and will monitor GMP's training package to disseminate best practices. Cheshire Police (on behalf of the NWMPG) and GMP have revised the managing pursuits protocol and produced a clearer document which removes the previous ambiguity on the issue of Command and Control. Cheshire Constabulary, as lead force of the NWMPG, will deliver a training package regarding command protocols for cross-border pursuits and will monitor GMP's training package to disseminate best practices. Cheshire Police (on behalf of the NWMPG) and GMP have revised the managing pursuits protocol and produced a clearer document which removes the previous ambiguity on the issue of Command and Control.

Noted (AI summary) The Department for Transport explains that there is no legal requirement to hold a driving licence to register a vehicle, or to become the keeper of an already registered vehicle, and outlines circumstances where this might occur.

Noted (AI summary) Mercedes-Benz clarifies its role as a supplier of a 'cowl' chassis and states that the modifications to the vehicle were the responsibility of Firma Sommer, who converted it into a complete vehicle. The driver was dismissed, and UPS details its driver training and assessment procedures, including a 'Space and Visibility' program. The company refutes that it provides no feedback.

Noted (AI summary) The Department for Transport outlined existing GB domestic and working time regulations for drivers of light goods vehicles. They stated that if the driver fell asleep due to inadequate rest, existing regulations would apply, and offered to coordinate with DVSA for an investigation if employer details are provided. NHS Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has communicated to all Registered Nurses (RNs) and senior staff via matrons and safety huddles, reiterating the importance of active monitor alarms and staff visibility. Senior nursing teams have also provided initial training on transferring data from monitors to modules, which will be added to medical equipment training.

Noted (AI summary) 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. 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. 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 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. 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 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.

Noted (AI summary) The Department for Transport clarified that local authorities are responsible for hazard signage and highway maintenance, and that existing guidance is available but not mandatory.

Noted (AI summary) Suffolk County Council Highways has assessed the report and agreed to install a pair of hidden dip signs north of the Wallers Farm access, facing southbound traffic and will now proceed to design suitable locations, leading to the erection of new posts and signs in due course. National Highways states that they are not responsible for the A137 and cannot comment, advising the coroner to contact Suffolk County Council instead.