8 station concerns
14 March 2024
Here’s what happened after these CIRAS reports at railway stations.
1. Sign hazard
Signs attached to stair railings were loosening and could have fallen onto tracks or hit a passenger. New wooden braces were used to strengthen them against the railings.
2. Lack of CCTV
Large areas of a station had no CCTV coverage, especially on platforms. A survey had already identified the need for more CCTV, but the work had been delayed. After receiving the report, the company resubmitted a work order to increase the amount of CCTV installed there.
3. Platform changes
Last-minute platform changes were often leading to crowding. Signallers were briefed to either reduce the number of platform changes or allow time for passengers to change platforms. They were advised to let station staff know before signalling a service into the station, and the process for this was refreshed.
4. Staff safety
Measures to protect staff from assault weren’t working. Staff had body-worn cameras, radios, and followed a policy to not intervene and retreat to the station office. After the report, the lone working risk assessment was redone. Extra controls included personal attack alarms, repositioning CCTV, conflict management training refreshers, and remote monitoring by hub station staff.
5. Air quality
Dust from the wear and tear of brake pads was on the enclosed station track. Air quality monitoring measured airborne dust for a month and found it was within UK/EU limits and better than an outdoor site a mile away. Sample analysis showed it was unlikely to be a cancer or bacterial risk, and the manufacturer confirmed no asbestos was in the brake pads.
6. Lineside debris
Rubbish was building between stations because of fly tipping. A track patrol identified lineside risks and reported them on the fault management system to get them removed. After the CIRAS report, fencing in the area was reinspected and monitored. New fencing was fitted where there were repeat offences.
7. Anti-trespass measures
People were trespassing on the railway at the end of a station where there’s no crossing, to walk along the river estuary. There’s a user-operated crossing at the other end. The report flagged this trespass location for the first time. An overt camera, anti-trespass signs and new fencing were installed. There’s since been public safety engagement at the station and in schools.
8. Lighting fixed
Repairs to a cable fault sped up after a CIRAS report. This fixed lighting along a station platform.
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