RSSB: Annual Health And Safety Report 2023/24

The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has published its Annual Health and Safety Report for 2023/24, offering a detailed assessment of the health and safety performance across Great Britain's rail network up to March 2024. This year’s report highlights several significant achievements and areas of concern within the rail industry.

_{Key Highlights of the Report}

1. Zero Fatalities in Train Accidents:The report underscores a major achievement with zero passenger and workforce fatalities in train accidents throughout the year. This marks a notable success in maintaining safety standards and operational practices.
2. Passenger Journeys Up:There was a 19% increase in passenger journeys compared to the previous year, reflecting a recovery in rail travel. However, the number of journeys remains 5% below pre-pandemic levels, indicating that the sector is still in the process of fully rebounding.
3. Zero Workforce Fatalities:In addition to the zero fatalities in train accidents, the rail workforce also experienced no fatalities. This is a positive indicator of safety improvements and effective risk management within the industry.
4. Fatalities at Stations and Other Locations:
   • Stations: There were three fatalities involving passengers or the public at stations, excluding assaults, trespassers, and level crossing users.
   • Other Locations: Eleven public fatalities occurred at other locations, with ten of these being related to trespassing and one at a level crossing.
5. Suicides and Suspected Suicides:The report recorded 274 suicides or suspected suicides on the rail network, highlighting a serious ongoing issue that the industry needs to address through prevention and support measures.

_{Areas for Improvement}

While there are commendable aspects in the report, several areas of concern have been noted:

• Signals Passed at Danger: There has been an increase in instances where signals were passed at danger, indicating a need for enhanced vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.
• Level Crossing Usage: Incorrect usage of level crossings has risen, suggesting that more education and enforcement may be necessary to ensure safe practices.
• Work-Related Violence: Elevated levels of work-related violence have been reported, indicating a need for improved safety measures and support for staff working on the railways.
• Trespass Incidents: Although fatalities from trespassing have decreased, the number of trespass incidents has increased compared to pre-pandemic levels. This highlights a growing safety concern that requires targeted interventions.

_{Looking Ahead}

The RSSB's Annual Health and Safety Report provides a mixed picture of progress and challenges within the rail industry. While the zero fatalities in train accidents and workforce safety are commendable, the report underscores the need for continued focus on reducing trespass incidents, improving level crossing safety, and addressing work-related violence.