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A safety net when all else fails

50735 ‘Poor mobility’ of the Driver’s seat on Class 156 units

July 2012 in Train Operations

tagged Rolling stock Work environment Not Specified

Drivers are concerned about the mobility and positioning of the Driver's seat and Driver Safety Device (DSD) pedal on Class 156 units. This follows CIRAS report 41255 and the Northern response received last year. The response mentioned the intention to carry out an ergonomic assessment, but the reporter believes this is yet to be done.

Following changes made to the Driver's seat, those who are above average height were having difficulties with leg room. In order to resolve this, the DSD pedal was lowered on one unit. Despite this, taller Drivers are still having problems finding a comfortable driving position. This has also created problems for Drivers below average height who find they can no longer reach the pedal.

The reporter recognises that it is difficult to cater for Drivers of differing heights, but it is felt that the Driver's seat needs to be more adjustable if lowering the DSD pedal is to be entirely successful. If the seat could be fully lowered and raised, along with the arm and back rests, Drivers of all heights would be able to find a more suitable and comfortable driving position.

Could Northern comment on:

  • The reporter's suggestion regarding the seats?
  • The ergonomic assessment mentioned in the earlier response

Response from Northern Rail

Northern actively engage with Train Crew via the Cab Improvement Group (CIG) and the modifications to 156 Driver Safety Device (DSD) are discussed on a regular basis. The feedback received indicates that a high proportion of Drivers are positive about the modifications. That said efforts have been made to engage with those who do not feel comfortable with the new set up. This has been done on an individual basis with a representative of the CIG and technical staff.  

The reporter has suggested that an improved range of seat movement and the location of the arm rests will reduce the difficulties experienced.  The current arrangement of the cab is key to this request.  Northern are removing arm rests from the cab wall and attaching them to the seat frame on a rolling program.  The vertical movement of the seat is restricted by the cab heater.  The feedback from CIG will be monitored to determine the effectiveness of this alteration.

The ergonomic assessment of the driving cab was undertaken during the original modification.  The assessment referenced in CIRAS response 41255 applies to Drivers that still experience difficulties.  This should be addressed to local management as this will then be dealt with locally with support from occupational health.  

It is requested that any issues with cab seats or environment are entered into repair books to allow a timely resolution to problems.  Representatives of the CIG should also be informed of trends so that full discussions can be held in this dedicated forum to cab environment.
50735