How rail's robust health and safety data is helping us pursue zero harm
The rail industry has always been a prolific data generator, using it to continuously improve operations. Now, the focus has shifted from simply collecting data to sharing and using it to make informed safety-related decisions.
This evidence- and risk-based approach ensures:
- the protection of the workforce and passengers
- compliance with safety regulations
- alignment with broader business objectives.
The key to unlocking the full potential of this data lies in its quality and the insights it provides into health and safety management.
Building a rich tapestry of data
We’ve recently seen a huge uptick in the volume of data produced. We’ve also seen a surge in the value derived from it. This is particularly the case with health and safety data.
Here, high-quality data is crucial for:
- identifying new or changing risks
- allocating resources effectively
- making investment decisions in risk control measures.
Information comes in various forms—from conversations between frontline staff to formal accident investigation reports. Each piece contributes to the health and safety data landscape.
In Great Britain, rail has mature safety event reporting systems, and operators share data through the Safety Management Intelligence System (SMIS). This allows for collective learning. It also allows for a much richer source of information than would otherwise be possible. The industry has improved in recording close calls, too. That’s vital for proactive safety management.
RSSB has also recently completed a project to develop health and wellbeing dashboards. Our aim is to integrate these areas into industry’s reporting routine.
That initiative was part of a broader effort to enhance the current health and safety data landscape. This work includes a major programme to upgrade SMIS. The goal is to make SMIS quicker and easier to use, as well as more insightful.
Ensuring a safer railway for all
The future of health and safety data is promising. Advancements in big data, machine learning, and AI are already providing new insights and improving risk management.
The goals are to:
- bring data-led decision-making closer to real-time
- provide more granular information specific to locations and issues
- support holistic decisions that assess health and safety with other risk dimensions, like performance and cost.
The Annual Health and Safety Report is one testament to industry’s commitment to transparency and continuous improvement. It gives a thorough overview of health and safety performance, structured around key risk areas. It serves as a benchmarking tool for operators. It’s also a key resource for regulators and stakeholders.
As rail continues to evolve, the importance of accurate and complete health and safety reporting cannot be overstated. It not only addresses immediate issues but also informs strategic decisions and prevents future incidents. The culture of information sharing and the value of systems like SMIS are unparalleled assets in the pursuit of zero harm and a safer railway for all.
Resources you might be interested in
- Health and safety data: quality information drives quality decisions (podcast)
- Annual Health and Safety Report 2023/24
- Safety Management Intelligence System
- Health and Wellbeing Data
- Risk and Safety Intelligence
