Key Messages from Risk Groups

The System Safety Risk Group last met on 4 March 2024

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Cross-industry group roadmaps released

The cross-industry groups that report into the System Safety Risk Group and the Rail Wellbeing Alliance  have released their roadmaps. The roadmaps cover the groups’ planned activities over the coming years, capturing the current picture and the steps they’ll take to reach their vision. Each group’s activities are aligned with the requirements set out in the Rail Health and Safety Strategy (RHSS).

• T1344: Improving the quantification of safety risk arising from delays and disruption

RSSB briefed SSRG on research to improve the quantification of safety risk arising from delays and disruptions (T1344). The research will be published soon. Rail companies will be able to use the output to support balanced risk decision making when responding to adverse events and to strengthen business cases for tackling causes of delay. SSRG discussed a plan for wider industry communications of this work.

• Common Solutions

SSRG reviewed the roadmap of activities focused on common solutions. The common solutions, which underpin the delivery of the RHSS, include health and safety intelligence, taking strategic and tactical decisions, competence and culture, and digital and technological transformation. 

• Communications Plan

SSRG reviewed and endorsed their new communications plan. The plan focuses on increasing the visibility of SSRG’s and its risk groups’ activities, signposting opportunities to collaboratively engage with the delivery of the RHSS, and increasing uptake of RHSS outputs.

• RSSB Operations Risk and Safety Conference

SSRG reviewed the draft programme for the RSSB Operations Risk and Safety conference that will take place on the 10 July. The event gathers industry leaders to discuss the key challenges facing rail and to hear about how the outputs from the delivery of the RHSS have been used to address these challenges. Register today. 

Next meeting: 10 June 2025

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: SSRG@rssb.co.uk

The Asset Integrity Group last met on 30 January 2024

The key messages from the meeting were:

• National CCS DRACAS Data Sharing Charter

The project is on track to deliver the National CCS DRACAS Data Sharing Charter Issue 1 by the end of March, with input from industry stakeholders.

The draft will be shared with the National DRACAS Group for cross-industry feedback. Comments and suggestions will be taken in upon review.

• AIG cybersecurity work

AIG’s cybersecurity initiatives, together with the rolling stock community, focus on sharing good practices for operational guidance. Risk modelling and mitigation are particular areas of focus.

These efforts have been acknowledged by the Railway Cybersecurity Committee (RCSC). The RCSC has offered strategic support to strengthen industry-wide cybersecurity.

The output of the work is to build a comprehensive threat model library. This will help the sector stay ahead of emerging threats. It will also ensure robust cybersecurity across rail systems.

• AIG Delivery Plan

The group reviewed the CP7 projects and their timelines to ensure alignment with the AIG Delivery Plan. It was noted that a revised Terms of Reference and remit will be issued soon. The template is currently under SSRG review.

• Enhancing reliability with Precursor Indicator Model (PIM) recalibration

The PIM recalibration project has been completed. This should improve the accuracy and reliability of performance monitoring systems. This achievement:

• supports better predictive maintenance
• reduces downtime
• enhances operational efficiency.

This will mean more reliable rail operations across the industry.

• AI Assurance and Asset Management

AIG is keen to understand the ongoing work by York University and RSSB in exploring how AI and automated systems can be further used for assurance in asset management.

The focus is on ensuring reliability and transparency in supporting long-term asset performance and safety.

• Improving resilience of Wheel Impact Load Detection (WILD) and Hot Axle Box Detection Sensors (HABD)

AIG discussed the tolerance for WILD and HABD sensor unavailability on the network. The Technology Working Group is looking at opportunities to enhance these sites with extra monitoring technologies, particularly for freight wagons, to improve detection and reliability.

The group will review the end-to-end process to find potential improvements, including feedback mechanisms. It also acknowledged its high relevance to asset integrity.

Next meeting: 20 March 2025

If you have any questions or wish to contact the group, please email: apoorv.shrivastava@rssb.co.uk cc: AIG@rssb.co.uk.

The Human Factors Strategy Group last met on 29 May 2024

The key messages from the meeting were:

• The group discussed organisational learning and the key areas of focus to help industry improve how they learn. These areas are:
• taking a systems approach to organisational learning 
• learning from everyday work and successes
• turning recommendations into solutions 
• turning organisational learning to organisational change. 

The group agreed to develop outputs in these areas during 2024 to help industry. 

Next meeting: 22 July 2024

The Infrastructure Safety Leadership Group last met on 30 January 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• New Chair and Deputy Chair

Stuart Webster-Spriggs came to the end of his two-year tenure as the Chair of ISLG in December 2024. He has been replaced by Matt Wright of Octavius. Tessa Bircham of Ground Control has been appointed as the group’s Deputy Chair. They will remain in post until December 2027.

• Failed drug and alcohol tests

ISLG members have reported an increase in positive drug and alcohol tests. ISLG and the Rail Industry Contractors Association will produce awareness raising material for group members to share within their organisations.

• Incorrectly applied protection limites and failure to follow safe systems of work

Rob Sigrist of RSSB reported a rise in both incorrectly applied protection limits and failure to follow safe systems of work. ISLG members were encouraged to ensure that their organisations review current arrangements and emerging trends. They were also asked to provide feedback on whether this safety risk needs further attention from ISLG.

• Project T1323 - 'Exploring opportunities to strengthen workforce reporting in the track worker population'

A request was made for a sponsor for project T1323 – ‘Exploring opportunities to strengthen workforce reporting in the track worker population’. ISLG members were also asked to consider if their organisation could provide access to track workers to be interviewed as part of the project research process.

• Rulebook changes: walking on or about the running line

Martin Biggin of Network Rail presented a high-level briefing on recent changes to the Rule Book relating to walking on or about the running line. He discussed the new rules for walking routes, unexpected obstacles, and the role of a site warden.

Next meeting: 27 March 2025 

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: ros.osawe@rssb.co.uk.

The Level Crossing Strategy Group last met on 13 June 2024.

The key messages from the meeting were:

1. Near miss guidance

Guidance on the reporting of near misses at level crossings is ready. It will soon be published on the RSSB website with a short summary and video. The document was developed using the outputs from the Level Crossing Strategy Group’s Near Miss Task and Finish Group. It aims to standardise near miss reporting at level crossings.

The guidance includes:

• key definitions
• information to include when reporting near misses
• examples of incidents that should and shouldn’t be considered as near misses.

2. International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD) 2024

The group Chair attended the ILCAD launch conference. The group heard an update on the event, which identified lots of initiatives, particularly around artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.

The group agreed that the next step in risk control management should focus on innovations in AI and geofencing.

The Chair highlighted that he had agreed to work with the U.S. Department of Transportation to bring together mobile phone system architects (Google and Apple, etc.) and various location technology companies (TomTom, etc.). This collaboration aims to develop technological solutions to reduce the risk of distraction at level crossings.

3. Enforcement

The group recognised the importance of reviewing enforcement activities at level crossings, especially in response to recent developments in enforcement technologies like Mobile Safety Vehicles and static cameras. This review is also prompted by the discussion of a recent case at the Penrhyndeudraeth user-worked crossing.

Also, the group noted that the fine for trespassing on the railway in the UK has remained at £1,000 for 40 years. In contrast, some EU partners impose a minimum fine of €38,000 for similar offences.

4. New safety campaign

‘Distracted? You’ve crossed the line’ is Network Rail’s (NR) new safety campaign. It aims to make footpath level crossing users more aware of their surroundings and the potential dangers.

NR has created the campaign to catch people’s attention and give them pause for thought by using a well-known phrase. ‘You’ve crossed the line’ may appear startling at first, but in this instance, it prompts you to pay attention to your situation and warns you to check it’s safe before crossing.

Distracted? You've crossed the line - Network Rail

Next meeting: 12 September 2024

If you have any questions or wish to contact the group, please email: Gemma.Lavery@RSSB.co.uk

The National Freight Safety Group last met on 21 January 2025

The key messages from the meeting were:

• SMIS Cause Forms

Recognising that there is an upward trend in SPADs, the group agreed that the information gathered in SMIS cause forms is invaluable. It will enable the sector to become more data-driven in addressing SPADs.

• Common Safe Systems of Work

The group agreed that all operators must prioritise the Common Safe Systems of Work (CSSOW) workstream. This includes accepting sites, uploading CSSOW documents, and maintaining the documents on the system.

• Freight Safety Improvement Portfolio Overview and Reminder of Process

An overview was provided of the Freight Safety Improvement Portfolio (FSIP) funding spend to date against the themes of upgrade, exploit, and innovate. Future applications for spend in the third and fourth years are welcome, especially those looking at themes exploit and innovate. Joint initiatives are being actively encouraged by the NFSG.

• NFSG Chair Stepping Down

NFSG members and those in the freight sector thanked group Chair Dougie Hill for his dedication to NFSG and drive for collaboration across freight in the interest of safety. The notable achievements in his seven-year tenure were praised. Dougie will continue to be a member of NFSG as RSSB’s Professional Head of Freight.

Date of next meeting: 25 April 2025

The On-Board Train Working Group last met on 11 March 2025

The key messages from the meeting were:

• HAZID Workshop

The group identified inconsistencies in excess luggage limits and the risk of capacity issues due to passengers bringing luggage onboard. To address this, an end-to-end passenger journey HAZID workshop will be held on 10 June 2025 in collaboration with the Stations Working Group. The workshop’s findings will inform the re-publication of the Passenger Luggage Good Practice Guide. To support the discussion, group members will conduct individual surveys on passenger luggage, with results to be shared at the workshop.

• Empty Coaching Stock Disposal Methods

Alexander Patton, Risk and Safety Intelligence Analyst for the RSSB, presented a preliminary analysis of empty coaching stock overcarry incidents across six TOCs. The analysis indicated that the ‘coach-by-coach’ methods appears to be the most effective at preventing overcarry incidents. In contrast, the ‘lock and walk-through’ method was associated with a rate of overcarry incidents six times higher; this was the highest analysed. These findings strongly indicate that the latter may be the least effective approach. Analysing data from more operators will make this analysis more robust in the future. It may also identify best practice and identify gaps and mitigations with alternative and established methods.

• Stranded Passengers

On 15 January the ORR hosted an industry workshop on improving the passenger experience during stranded train incidents. A key takeaway was the need to prioritise passengers during these incidents. Feedback highlighted that stranded passengers experience frustration and a lack of information, and that they need better support with onward travel. Operators were encouraged to review and adapt their existing plans to ensure they are fit for purpose and responsive. They aim to agree on a rescue plan within 30 minutes and complete evacuations within 90 minutes. Useful strategies from the Elizabeth line were shared, including detailed control tools, passenger communication plans, and volunteer checklists. The topic for RED 73, to be released early next year, is stranded passengers on stranded trains.

Next meeting 10 June 2025

If you have any questions, or would like to contact the group, please email: ptsrg@rssb.co.uk

The Overspeed Group (OSG) last met on 22 January 2025

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Speed Assessment Tool Trial
  
  The Overspeed Group has obtained support from Network Rail, Eastern Region, for a trial of the Overspeed Assessment Tool. Meetings took place the week commencing 11 February, during which Network Rail was shown a demo of the tool and was provided with overspeed data. A further trial update will be presented at the next Overspeed Group meeting on 30 April.

• Overspeed Investigation Template
  
  The TARG Focus Group will begin developing an overspeed investigation template. The group comprises like-minded duty holders who want to collaborate and share best practice on various topics that mitigate safety-critical risks with fellow duty holders across GB rail. The first meeting will take place in March.

• Late Notice Guidance Report
  
  The Overspeed Group commissioned research into late notices, which often are the only notice drivers get of blanket speed restrictions. The group has published the research findings in a report, which includes the most effective way to use late notices. 

Next meeting: 30 April 2025

The People on Trains and at Stations Risk Group last met on 13 February 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Safety and Performance

Ella Dahan’s presentation on ‘T1344: Improving the quantification of safety risk arising from delays and disruption’ highlighted the importance of PTSRG understanding the relationship between safety and performance. Enhancing this understanding will enable better decision making in the future. A key takeaway from the presentation is the recognition of how safe the railways are, with data showing that passengers are 30 times more likely to experience harm when travelling by other modes of transport. This highlights the importance of making rail travel as attractive as possible.

• PTI Strategy

The draft PTI strategy scoping document was presented to the group and amendments were made for the document to be finalised. A consensus was reached to include a sub-section on innovation and technology and a case study to each module within the strategy. The focus will now turn to finalising the steering and working group members and informing industry.

• Stranded Passengers on Stranded Trains

The Office of Rail and Road hosted a Stranded Passengers on Stranded Trains event on 15 January, providing valuable insights into industry best practice. This event highlighted the importance of the industry taking a coordinated and prompt response and adopting a ‘passenger-first’ mindset. A key takeaway was the emphasis on the word ‘passenger’ rather than ‘train’. These insights will support the work of the OBT-WG as they develop good practice guidance on an effective response to stranded passengers on stranded trains.

• Rail Partners

PTSRG wants to recognise the valuable contribution that Rail Partners has made as an organisation to the work of the group, as well as the dedication and impact of Phil Barrett individually. Their efforts, commitment and expertise have played a crucial role in driving progress and collaboration to enhance passenger safety within the rail industry.

Next meeting: 15 May 2025

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: PTSRG@rssb.co.uk

The Platform Train Interface Working Group last met on 1 June 2023

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Collaborative roadmap review

The group is embarking on a collaborative roadmap review where the key risks identified will be defined and scoped out, with a focus on three areas: discovery, planning, and delivery phases. By utilising a streamlined ‘plan on a page’ approach, the aim is to establish clear and concise milestones to enable a succession of evolving tangible outputs.

• ETCS Dispatch

The discussions in the meeting highlighted the growing emergence of ETCS in dispatch. Insights on dispatch competence, ETCS introduction, inclusion of conductors and the need to equip platform staff with ETCS knowledge and support are emphasised to ensure that those outside of the driver fraternity are considered. There is a call for review to ensure seamless and safe operations.

• Further enhancing relationships with the Good Practice Group

The well-established PTI Good Practice Group is recognised as an ideal forum to share ideas, identify good practice, and review case studies as it brings together PTI specialists who exchange experiences and creates healthy debate. To avoid duplication and clearly distinguish the two groups, it was reiterated that the PTI-WG should have a dotted line and provide a point of escalation for that group as well as focus on the wider LHSBR strategy. By further fostering relationships and encouraging dialogue the groups can supplement one another and drive continuous improvement.  

Next meeting: 21 September 2023

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: PTI@rssb.co.uk

The Rail Freight Operations Group last met on 20 March 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• European Train Control System

RFOG members are concerned about freight safety amid the advancement of ETCS on the East Coast. RFOG requests that the NFSG escalate its concerns to TARG. RFOG would like a response from TARG via the NFSG on how ETCS concerns can be raised and the escalation process.

• Freight Safety Improvement Portfolio Overview and Reminder of Process
  

RFOG is keen to review the process for dissemination of emergency speed restrictions and blanket speed restrictions. There is evidence that strongly points to learning needed by both the infrastructure manager and operating companies.

• Freight Trains Stabling in Platforms

RFOG has proposed a small working group to look at the risks associated with freight trains stabling in platform areas including for driver relief.

• Scrap Metal Loading

Following a brief presentation and proposal by Network Rail’s Peter Williams, RFOG agreed to convene a small working group to produce a standard on scrap steel loading. Tata Steel will increase its rail freight usage 40-50-fold from its current level of circa 25 wagons a week. It will also diversify the types of scrap metal it brings into the plant at Port Talbot. A loading standard will ensure the types of steel are correctly loaded, thus reducing the chances of incidents on the network with loads falling from wagons.

It was agreed that the standard will become a part of the existing bulk loading standard.

• Access to Operational Documentation

RFOG agreed to investigate the production of a central repository so that RFOG members can access useful operational documents.

Next meeting: 19 June 2025

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: penny.hattam@RSSB.co.uk.

The Rail Investigation Group last met on 09 April 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Mill Hill Broadway

The group was presented a case involving a serious incident at Mill Hill Broadway station. The incident led to a Regulation 28 Prevention of Future Deaths Report notice from the coroner, highlighting significant gaps in accident response and investigation processes. Key issues included unclear procedures, inadequate evidence gathering, poor communication, and mishandling of crucial information. The case underscored the need for clearer guidance, better staff training, and a more compassionate approach to managing such incidents. As part of the ongoing RIS-3119-TOM review, we will look to embed these important lessons, particularly around developing consistent response plans and improving the quality and sensitivity of post-incident actions, to help prevent similar failings in the future.

• Rail Investigation resources

The group has been developing a series of face-to-camera videos and factsheets covering key topics within accident investigation. These resources are designed to support learning and consistency across the industry and will be made available on the RSSB website to encourage wider access and engagement.

• Investigator Competency Matrix

The group has been focused on finalising the Investigator Competency Matrix, which is now in the final stages of review. The document is close to completion, with only a few final comments pending before it can be signed off and shared more widely.

• Safe Insights demo

Paul Murray from RSSB’s Risk and Safety Intelligence team introduced and demonstrated the new Safe Insights system. It replaces SMIS platform and is designed to streamline the recording and analysis of safety events. Safe Insights features enhanced input and search functionality, including AI-driven template suggestions based on event descriptions. Paul demonstrated how users can easily enter and search for event details and emphasised the opportunities Safe Insights offers, particularly in how users can access and use the data to influence safety improvements. He also outlined the interim solution for inputting SPAD causes, which involves using an offline template until full functionality is available. 

• Shared learning form

The group is developing a shared learning form to support organisations in capturing and sharing key learnings from investigations. The form will include the 10 incident factors to encourage users to consider and include these in their submissions.

• Emergency response and tabletop exercises  

The group discussed the importance of sharing knowledge from major reconstruction events and operational exercises, particularly those focused on emergency response. There was recognition that key stakeholders, such as RAIB, are not always included in these exercises, which may reduce opportunities for shared learning and broader insight. The group would like to ensure all relevant stakeholders are considered and included when planning these events.

Next meeting: 11 June 2025. 

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: charlotte.sweet@rssb.co.uk.

The Road Risk Group last met on 5 February 2025

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Diabetes and Road Risk

The Diabetes Safety Organisation (DSO) joined the Road Risk Group (RRG) to present their research on type 2 diabetes and the hidden risks if left undiagnosed or unmanaged. The DSO is working with key stakeholders, including government, regulators, and industry bodies, to:

• educate employers on the risks
• understand the barriers and enablers to implementation 
• support the development of safety policy guidance and standards.

The DSO will work with RRG and the rail industry to promote awareness of diabetes risks and management.

• Post-prandial Sleepiness

David Hardman, RSSB, presented the outputs of a knowledge search on post-prandial somnolence (sleepiness after eating). His presentation covered:

• existing knowledge of post-prandial somnolence 
• its impact on the ability to perform safety-critical tasks 
• whether it has been a causal factor in any events entered into SMIS 
• what mitigations can be deployed against it. 

• Project Edward

RRG was given an overview of Project EDWARD (Every Day Without a Road Death). The initiative shares good practice in:

• implementing a road safety strategy
• improving work-related driver safety 
• enforcement and education 
• protecting vulnerable road users.

RRG will seek opportunities to partake in future Project EDWARD events and include the project in Rail Industry Road Safety Week and similar campaigns.

• Data Quality Improvement 

Industry sector groups have endorsed the proposal to update SMIS reporting criteria to include fatalities to members of the public and vulnerable road users in an RTC event. The proposal will be taken to the SMIS Advisory Group for approval in March. Email RRG@rssb.co.uk if you have any questions about the proposal. 

• Rail Industry Road Safety Week

The Rail Industry Road Safety Week Working Group has convened to begin planning for Rail Industry Road Safety Week 2025. The theme for campaign is ‘Safe Driver’. It will be coordinated in partnership with Network Rail and Driving for Better Business. Email RRG@rssb.co.uk if you would like to get involved in this year’s event. 

The SPAD Risk Subgroup last met on 4 February 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• RIS3199/B Form Removal

SPAD RSG has agreed to remove the RIS3119B form due to issues with duplication, which has led to the form not being completed. Additionally, there is no added value in completing it as Network Rail does not process the data. Improving the SMIS initial causation forms will now be a priority. This will enhance causation completion rates and investigation recommendations. A small SPAD RSG working group is being set up to carry out this task.

• Interim Causation MS Teams Call

SPAD RSG data trends have identified five SPADs that resulted in incidents in the last 12 months. A causation call, on MS Teams, has been arranged ahead of the next SPAD RSG meeting to review these incidents and determine if the causation aligns with SMIS reporting data.

• SPAD Investigation Project Update

The Rail Investigation Group (RIG) provided SPAD RSG with an update on the SPAD investigation project, which aims to improve SPAD investigation strategies. The project has gained support from SPAD RSG. RIG is progressing the project despite some delays.

Next meeting:

The next hybrid SPAD RSG meeting is on Tuesday 6 May on Microsoft Teams and at RSSB new office at 25 Fenchurch Avenue

The Stations Working Group last met on 5 November 2024.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Meeting quoracy

The number of non-RSSB meeting attendees did not meet the 50% threshold for quoracy. This meant that decisions could not be made formally. However, those in attendance agreed that there was value in reviewing our workstreams and instigating progress through correspondence with their fellow members.

• Crowd management

Matt Jump (Network Rail) shared a principles document that sets out the approach for effective crowd management under five sections. Those were:

• command and control
• crowd management
• customer experience
• customer support and welfare
• training and continuous improvement.

The group will individually review the document to align with internal processes. It will also share findings to identify gaps, issues, and best practices.

• Automatic ticket barriers (RIS-7701-INS)

The group will engage with compiling elements of the automatic ticket barriers standards through the development of RIS-7701-INS. The existing standard (RIS-7700-INS) will be withdrawn and merged with RIS-7701-INS.

It was also felt that S-WG was the appropriate group to compose three of the sections, relating to:

• passenger operations, to reflect changes to ticketing types
• customer behaviour
• the rollout of remote gate lines.

• Planned General Inspection guidance

Project submission has been accepted by RSSB on the development of Planned General Inspection guidance. This aims to standardise and streamline inspection processes across the industry. This will provide clear, actionable guidance to support consistent implementation and alignment with long-term operational goals. In turn, this will foster efficiency and accountability across the network.

 Next meeting: 26 February 2025

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: PTSRG@rssb.co.uk

The Train Accident Risk Group last met on 12 February 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• RIS3199/B Form Removal

SPAD RSG has agreed to remove the RIS3119B form due to issues with duplication, which has led to the form not being completed. Additionally, there is no added value in completing it as Network Rail does not process the data. Improving the SMIS initial causation forms will now be a priority. This will enhance causation completion rates and investigation recommendations. A small SPAD RSG working group is being set up to carry out this task.

• Interim Causation MS Teams Call
  
  SPAD RSG data trends have identified five SPADs that resulted in incidents in the last 12 months. A causation call, on MS Teams, has been set ahead of the next SPAD RSG meeting to review these incidents and determine if the causation aligns with SMIS reporting data.

• Speed Assessment Tool Trial

The Overspeed Group has obtained support from Network Rail, Eastern Region, for a trial of the Overspeed Assessment Tool. Meetings took place the week commencing 11 February, during which Network Rail was shown a demo of the tool and was provided with overspeed data. A further trial update will be presented at the next Overspeed Group meeting on 30 April.

• Overspeed Investigation Template

The TARG Focus Group will begin developing an overspeed investigation template. The group comprises like-minded duty holders who want to collaborate and share best practice on various topics that mitigate safety-critical risks with fellow duty holders across GB rail. The first meeting will take place in March.

• Non-Technical Skills Integration Self-Evaluation Tool

TARG has agreed to endorse the NTS Self-Integration Self-Evaluation Tool. The tool aims to support the integration and use of non-technical skills across the rail industry. A progress update on the tool will be provided at the next TARG meeting on 21 May.

• OPSRAM/TOSG Standardisation Opportunity

TARG has agreed to explore methods to standardise the OPSRAM/TOSG. Standardisation will ensure the consistent dissemination of practical information that supports safety-critical working. There will be an agenda item focusing on this topic at the next TARG meeting. In the meantime, contact TARG Chairs to facilitate this standardisation approach and determine how the RSSB conveys messaging.

Next meeting: 7 May 2025

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: TARG@rssb.co.uk

The Trespass and Suicide Prevention Strategy Group last met on 13 February 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• New trespass campaign

The group was presented with the upcoming Network Rail social media trespass educational campaign, set to launch in March 2025. The primary campaign, ‘Stay off the tracks’, aims to raise awareness about the dangers of trespassing on railway tracks. The campaign will feature three impactful films, with the first being the ‘making of a mini-documentary series’ that highlights ‘the horrifying effects of the electric rail’. The series will provide a stark and realistic portrayal of the severe consequences of trespassing to educate the public and deter such dangerous behaviour.

• Small talk saves lives 

The Small Talks Saves Lives campaign is set to return for its eighth phase, from March 4 to March 25. The campaign is designed to remind the public that a simple conversation can save a life. The initiative will include more than 100 station-based events across the country, with active involvement from dedicated volunteers. To support the dissemination of the message, a toolkit will be provided to enable train operators and other key stakeholders to promote the campaign. The campaign will launch with the Power of Words event at London Bridge station. The event will feature a spoken word artist and a visual artist, who will creatively convey the life-saving power of words. For further information and to access the toolkit, please contact railcompaniestraining@samaritans.org

• Trespass & Suicide Prevention One Stop Shop 

The new One-Stop Shop is now live. A new case study on the trespass risk assessment has been added, offering valuable insights. We are seeking additional content as we continue to develop the site. If you have any materials, please share them with us using the email below. Your input and collaboration are invaluable.

• BTP disruption plans

Sergeant Chris Duncombe provided the group with an overview of the BTP’s Disruption Improvement Plan for 2024-2025. The plan focuses on managing and reducing disruptive route crime offences through various key workstreams. These include the development of a disruption toolkit for officer support and advice, the expansion of Operation Falcon, the publication of the Fatality Manual of Guidance, and a review and update of the People in Precarious Places Manual of guidance.

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: Charlotte.Sweet@RSSB.co.uk

The Trespass and Suicide Prevention Working Group last met on 21 January 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Effectiveness of surveillance technologies

Lisa Marzano and Laura Joyner from Middlesex University presented their research on the effectiveness of smart surveillance technology in preventing suicides at high-risk locations. This research was funded by the National Institute for Health Research. The project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of certain technologies, focusing on their usage, benefits, and potential harms.

The study includes three case studies:

• railways
• a bridge location
• a high-frequency coastal location.

The project involves cross-location learning and explores various perspectives. It is also looking at what the potential risks and unintended consequences of using this technology at high-risk locations might be.

The research also aims to map the range of surveillance technologies used across the UK. The team will also develop evidence-based guidance and resources for implementation.

• Small Talk Saves Lives

The Small Talks Saves Lives campaign returns for phase 8, running from March 4 to March 25. The launch event is taking place at London Bridge station.

The campaign aims to remind the public that they have the tools they need to save a life. It will feature station- and community-based events across the country, supported by listening volunteers.

A toolkit with materials for social media, websites, and press releases will be shared to help train operators and other stakeholders spread the message.

For more information, please contact railcompaniestraining@samaritans.org.

• T1357: Defining the requirements for trespass signage

Rosemary Tinker and Tom Hyatt from RSSB’s Human Factors team provided an update on T1357: Defining the Requirements for Trespass Signage.

They highlighted key stages of the project, starting with the current literature review. This will be followed by:

• workshops
• focus groups
• site visists.

The session included a discussion around some key questions. Feedback from the group was also welcomed.

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: Charlotte.Sweet@RSSB.co.uk

The Rail Wellbeing Alliance last met on 12 June 2024.

The key messages from the meeting were:

Progress of health risk groups

RWA received a progress update from the Health and Wellbeing Action Group (HWAG) and the Occupational Health and Hygiene Advisory Group (OHHAG). RSSB’s Rail Health and Safety Strategy states the key aim for the health and wellbeing area is for the rail industry to prioritise health so that it is managed on a par with safety. HWAG and OHHAG have defined a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. They are working to raise the profile of health and wellbeing across the industry.

HWAG’s purpose is to improve data-driven and evidence-based decisions for the prevention and management of health and wellbeing issues in the industry. To inform the approach, HWAG discussed barriers and forces for change to achieve the prioritisation of health. A workshop will be held in July 2024 to draft HWAG’s roadmap for the next meeting in August 2024.

OHHAG’s purpose is to develop and oversee a strategic roadmap for an improved approach to the prevention of harm and early identification and intervention on work-related ill health risks. The roadmap was agreed at the meeting on 14 May 2024. Work on the medical fitness standards is ongoing. Workshops with industry are being held for the Managing the risk associated with medical impairment in safety critical occupations (T1324) project. This will also inform future work on developing a ‘taking healthy decisions’ risk framework for industry.

RWA supported the work of the groups and praised how much progress these newly formed groups are making.

RSSB’s Operations Risk and Safety Conference 2024

The Operations Risk and Safety Conference is taking place on 11 July 2024. The Chair of RWA, David Horne, MD, LNER, will be part of a panel on the day. There will be presentations from the RSSB Health and Wellbeing team. Other topics include:

• taking safe decisions
• operating incidents and culture
• managing emerging technologies
• electrical safety
• managing disruption.

To book a ticket, please use this link: Events and Webinars (rssb.co.uk).

Railway Mental Health Charter

RWA was given an update on the Railway Mental Health Charter (RMHC). The RMHC is a framework to help promote, manage, and support workforce mental wellbeing. There are 127 member companies across the industry. A review of the RHMC was undertaken, and a revised version was launched in May 2024. If you have any questions about becoming a member of the RMHC, please contact Faye Bacon at RSSB.

Health and Wellbeing Data Hub

An update on the Health and Wellbeing Data Hub was provided. The project phase for T1259 is about to close, and there will be a new project implementation with the existing stakeholders. The new project will be delivered in three phases, with the aims of:

• expanding the stakeholders to all Safety Management Intelligence System (SMIS) members
• providing a fully automated system for health data submission and analysis.

See Health and Wellbeing Data for further information and reports.

RWA fully endorse and support the continuation of this important and innovative work. Sickness absence in the rail industry is twice that of the national average. This work will assist industry in targeting health and wellbeing interventions, provide the data for business cases, and help put health on a par with safety.

Next meeting: 4 September 2024

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk

The Fatigue Coordination Group last met on 14 February 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Fatigue Risk Manager’s Course

The FCG discussed the success of the Fatigue Risk Manager’s pilot course, which was facilitated by RSSB’s Dr Claire Watt-Coombes and Anna Vereker at the RSSB’s London offices on 3-4 February 2025. The course provided valuable insights and practical tools for people in rail fatigue manager roles. Positive feedback was provided by participants from across the industry. This course will become commercially available via the RSSB’s website. The next course is likely to be offered in mid-2025.

• Leveraging Insights from RSSB’s Fatigue Survey

The FCG highlighted that the RSSB’s 2023 fatigue survey has provided key insights for individual rail companies into industry-wide fatigue risks. The analysis of the survey results is ongoing, and findings will be used to enhance the industry’s fatigue management strategies. March is the target publication date for the follow-up report. RSSB will present a paper at the CIEHF Conference in April on the fatigue survey results. The paper will focus on the ‘feast or famine’ pattern of sleep that was first observed in rail workers following a 2018 survey.

• Fatigue Assessment Tool and Alignment with Industry Initiative

The FCG discussed that the In-Shift Fatigue Assessment Tool trialled by the Freight Fatigue Working Group has demonstrated the tool’s effectiveness. Early evidence has shown positive impacts in assessing fatigue during a shift. A case study outlining the tool’s benefits and how it can be used will be added to the RSSB’s website. Separately, Network’s Rail current Drive Safe campaign on fatigue is available on Safety Central. It offers valuable insights into managing fatigue risk related to road driving. 

Next meeting: 30 May 2025

If you have any questions, or would like to contact the group, please email: fatigue@rssb.co.uk.

The Health and Wellbeing Action Group last met on 12 February 2025.

1.  HWAG reviewed and updated roadmap

The group discussed successful activities and looked ahead to identify priority areas and measures of success to ensure their work aligns with the Rail Health and Safety Strategy. 

The group will focus on three key areas to reach the vision of having health managed on a par with safety: 

• developing data-driven insights, 
• embedding strategic and evidenced based approaches 
• promoting and embedding healthy cultures in rail. 

Over the next year, the group will: 

• explore links between incidents/accidents and poor health and wellbeing 
• re-run the industry’s mental health survey 
• publish outcomes of a literature review on peer support 
• support leadership to champion health and wellbeing 
• explore the creation of a maturity model for health and wellbeing.

2.  Training for health and wellbeing professionals

The group discussed key areas for training to health and wellbeing professionals in rail. These include:

• health and wellbeing principles at work 
• understanding the specificities of each organisation 
• developing a strategy and implementing and monitoring strategy. 

The group will explore means to support health and wellbeing professionals.

3.  Mental health in rail: achieving change project

The group discussed findings from RSSB’s ‘Mental health in rail: achieving change’ project, which includes guidance for leaders and employees responsible for health and wellbeing.

Recommendations for leaders include: 

• treating health and wellbeing like any other specialist area 
• developing strategic approaches to health and wellbeing 
• resourcing health and wellbeing appropriately. 

In light of the findings, HWAG is developing work to explore barriers to the prioritisation of health and wellbeing by senior leaders in rail.

Next meeting: 20 May 2025

If you have any questions, or would like to contact the group, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk

The Occupational Health and Hygiene Advisory Group last met on 8 August 2024.

The key messages from the meeting were:

1.  Medical standards

OHHAG received an update on the progress of the Medical Standards review. The RIS-3789-TOM Medical Standards draft will be submitted to the Traffic Operation and Management Standard Committee (TOM SC) on 3 September 2024 for approval for it to proceed to industry consultation, scheduled for 16 September to 11 October 2024. Comments will be reviewed, and the final draft version will be submitted to TOM SC for approval on 3 December 2024. RIS-3789-TOM will be published in March 2025.

2.  Associated research projects

There are two research projects supporting the medical standards review:

• T1279 Colour vision requirements for train drivers (the final report is imminent)
• T1324 Managing the risk associated with medical impairment in safety critical operations.

Workshops have been held with members of OHHAG to produce guidance. Outputs from this project are:

• development of a Taking Healthy Decisions framework, based on the Taking Safe Decisions model
• medical assessment framework
• worked examples for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and sleep apnoea
• case studies. 

These activities are within OHHAG’s roadmap.

3.  Health risk management

OHHAG was updated on Balfour Beatty’s health risk management activities, which include a health risk assessment tool. A subgroup will be formed under OHHAG that will gather tools and guidance as a package for use within the rail industry. This will include developing a Managing Health Risks in Rail training course.

4.  Occupational health provision across the sector

A short survey is planned to establish the current picture of health provision across the rail industry. This will be based around contractual set up, access, the quality of services, and competency of occupational health providers specifically for rail. The results will be discussed at OHHAG.

Next meeting: 7 November 2024

If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk