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09/08/2005

Research into requirements for emergency lighting on passenger trains published

Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) today published a key research project looking into the requirements for emergency lighting on passenger trains.

RSSB funded the research, which was carried out by a collaborative venture led by AEA Technology.

Aidan Nelson, RSSB Director Policy and Strategic Initiatives, said: ‘Our research has shown that the lack of emergency lighting on trains continues to be a source of concern to passengers. The research takes account of passenger experience and needs in order to establish lighting levels for emergency situations. This is the first time this has been done for the rail sector and is, I believe, the first of its kind internationally.’

Supported by feedback from passengers affected by the loss of lighting in a train accident context, the work identified a number of safety benefits associated with the fitting of emergency lighting:

Helping passengers to react to protect themselves and others during an accident.
Providing comfort and re-assurance immediately following an accident thus reducing trauma.
Facilitating deployment of first aid measures.
Assisting in train evacuation should the need arise.

The research investigated the case for fitting emergency lighting on passenger trains. It identifies what lighting levels are required for true emergency lighting and confirms that such levels are achievable in a reliable way with current technology.

An industry code of practice will be developed by RSSB to guide train operators and owners in how appropriate emergency lighting levels can be achieved. Meanwhile, RSSB recommends that train operators and rolling stock owners consider their response to the findings of this work in respect of their requirements for new and refurbished rolling stock.

Notes to editors:

1. Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) was established in April 2003 as an independent, not for profit organisation tasked with improving safety performance across the national rail network. The company is owned by the railway industry, is limited by guarantee and has a board and an advisory committee. It is independent of any single railway company and their commercial interests.