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 15 May 2025

The key messages from the meeting were:

• AIG Task and Finish Groups Update

It was reported that the projects within the four AIG task and finish groups are progressing well through various stages of delivery. The group discussed measures that can be implemented to remove the bottleneck with the stalled projects.

• Learning from Operational Experience

Greg Morse (RSSB) gave a presentation on learning from operational experience. It highlighted key incidents and their learnings, including wrong-side signalling failures, level crossing issues, Wheel Impact Load Detectors (WILD), and Hot Axle Box Detectors. He emphasised the importance of thorough testing and independent verification to prevent errors and equipment failures. AIG noted historical incidents to draw parallels and reinforce the need for robust monitoring and maintenance practices.

• WILD

Andrew Lyle-Carter (Network Rail) highlighted that there is a need for improved feedback on WILD activations. He emphasised the importance of maintaining these systems for detecting wheel defects and overweight vehicles.
Mike Briggs (RSSB) provided a demonstration of the Wheelset Intervention Support Tool. The tool uses WILD data to monitor and predict wheel degradation, helping identify high-risk wheels for proactive maintenance. The tool is currently in use, with plans to expand its application.

• AI Change Toolkit

Luisa Moisio (RSSB) and Vincent Ganthy (RSSB) provided an overview of the AI toolkit, which aims to support the introduction and assurance of AI applications in the rail industry. It provides structured guidance for defining AI solutions, assessing their significance, and aligning with existing change management processes. The toolkit is designed to help practitioners navigate the complexities of AI implementation. Feedback from industry workshops is being incorporated to refine the toolkit further.

• Industry Data Sharing Integration

The meeting emphasised that data visibility and usability can be enhanced through dashboards and collaborative tools. Integration of data from various sources aims to improve predictive maintenance and operational efficiency. Key challenges include data accuracy, availability, and cybersecurity. The group noted that addressing these challenges will require stronger collaboration among all industry stakeholders.

Next meeting: 02 July 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 14 May 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Near misses involvinig track workers

There has been an overall decrease in near misses involving track workers over the past three years. The current average is one near miss per period. However, Stephen Webber, Network Rail, shared that in the Southern Region, there were six near misses in the past year and three to date this year.

Members endorsed a proposal to replace the near miss reporting metric with one that covers line blockage and possession irregularities. This will provide a more accurate view of the risks faced by track workers.

• Isolation and earthing irregularities

Isolation and earthing irregularity incidents continue to rise, and most of them involve the use of overhead line equipment. The ISLG Network intends to create a task and finish group to interrogate the existing data to determine if there is a significant geographical split.

• Medical standards for plant operators

The group discussed whether the new approach to colour vision standards could be applied to safety-critical roles such as plant operators. This would require an update to the medical and competency standards but could potentially make currently under-resourced roles easier to fill.

• Infrastructure labour market

The potential impact of contingent labour on fatigue risk was raised at the ISLG Fatigue Working Group meeting on 22 April 2025. There was a discussion about the potential for some collaborative work in this area.

• Northern SHELT working group updates

Ian Purdham and Nicola Uijen, Network Rail, provided an update on the Northern SHELT working groups, focusing on areas such as plant safety, supply management, supervision, occupational risk, and biodiversity.

Next meeting: 17 July 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 29 April 2025

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Loading Standards 

NFSG members are keen to impress the need to progress at pace the loading standard as a part of the Wagon Condition Programme (WCP). Current timescales would mean the WCP finishes in April 2026.

• Common Safe System of Work 

It was recognised that all FOCs are required to review their current common safe system of work as part of the projects annual review. This is to ensure documentation for shared access is up to date. Documents are available to all through the shared area.

• Train Protection & Warning System 

NFSG confirmed endorsement of the Train Protection & Warning System procedure for a standardised response. The group has also requested that Rail Freight Operations Group provides an update on the use of the procedure at the next meeting. 

• Operators Safety Forum 

The group is keen to make sure that freight is represented when the Operations Safety Forum is re-enacted. Freight does have the potential to import risk that affects the passenger sector. 

• GSM-R Usage

NFSG was advised of current work taking place to propose the expansion of the occasions where GSM-R is used to caution drivers. This includes scenarios involving bridge strikes, underbridges, and track defects. No objections were raised by FOCs; however, NFSG would like this to be considered first by rail freight operators. Before looking to expand further, NFSG said it would like to understand from a ‘first principles’ point of view if the sector uses the current agreed GSM-R broadcasts to their full potential.

• New NFSG Chair

NFSG welcomed its new chair, Stuart Ash, who is Freightliner’s Professional Head of Operations. Stuart will lead the NFSG’s work in driving improvements in safety, health, and wellbeing across the rail freight sector. He will help to shape national initiatives and work with senior stakeholders from across the industry. Dougie Hill was thanked for the fantastic work that he has done to facilitate the continuous improvement of safety, health, and wellbeing in rail freight.

Date of next meeting: 8 July 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 30 April 2025

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Speed Assessment Tool Trial
  
  The Overspeed Risk Tool has been successfully trialed in the eastern region. It will remain in use in the region for further validation. The tool will be shared with other regions via operation risk advisors. 
  
  The data, which will be shared with RSSB, can be used for proactive speed data research and to quality check insights reporting. Opportunities will be identified to both improve the tool and determine who will own these improvements.

• Grantham Overspeeding Incident 
  
  London North Eastern Railway (LNER) provided a detailed analysis of the Grantham overspeeding incident. It highlighted the importance of supporting drivers who are returning from a phased return to work and ensuring they are competent and feel supported on specific routes. The presentation also included the actions LNER has taken following the incident. 

• Using RAATS Data to Detect Overspeeding 
  
  The Overspeed Group was updated on a University of Huddersfield project on a feasibility study which sought to identify overspeed events using train describer data. The study has shown promising results.
  
  The data may be analysed to identify high-risk overspeeding locations. The study, meanwhile, may supplement an ongoing overspeed project, which aims to proactively review a sample of an operators’ overspeed data.

Next meeting: 23 July 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 6 May 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. A request for help will now need to be submitted. This change will feed into the RIS-3119-TOM 12-month review. Drafting of RIS-3119-TOM begins in July 2026 and publication is March 2027.

• SPAD RSG Just Culture Workshop 
  

SPAD RSG members discussed a mock SPAD scenario involving a driver and platform staff in a ‘just culture exercise. The exercise emphasised the importance of carrying out thorough investigations and understanding the context of unsafe actions. 

Work on the strategy report to improve SPAD investigation and reporting is ongoing. 

• SPAD Investigation Project Update

The Rail Investigation Group has updated SPAD RSG on the SPAD investigation project, which aims to improve SPAD investigation strategies. 

The review of operators’ investigations—a part of the project—has now been completed. Now, interviews with numerous operators will be organised.

• Route to Competence Discussion

SPAD RSG discussed methods of improving route competence for train drivers. They explored the advantages of simulators and enhanced mentorship programmes.

The importance of maintaining drivers’ route knowledge and competence was emphasised, with suggestions for continuous improvement in training practices. Currently, the industry is experiencing a decline in practical handling and/or contact time with assessors. Additionally, there are too few driver managers to the number of drivers.

The industry needs to recruit more driver managers to cope with the potential influx of drivers. Additional personnel will also enable knowledge transfer, both in the upskilling of new driver standards managers (DSMs) and the capturing of knowledge before current DSMs retire.

Next meeting:

The next SPAD RSG meeting is on Tuesday 29 July at RSSB (25 Fenchurch Avenue, London, EC3M 5AD) and on MS Teams.

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 7 May 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• RAATS Tool Version 2.0 Update
  
  Work on the next iterative update to the RAATS tool is ongoing, with the project and digital teams establishing what remaining work is required before launch. A refinement meeting will take place week commencing 5 May to agree the remaining tasks, following which a launch date can be set. The next phase of the tool update will start in the third quarter of this financial year. The target date for completion of all updates is 21 April 2026.

• SPAD RSG Just Culture Workshop
  
  SPAD RSG members discussed a mock SPAD scenario involving a driver and platform staff in a ‘just culture exercise’. The exercise emphasised the importance of thorough investigation and understanding the context of unsafe actions.
  
  Work on the strategy report to improve SPAD investigation and reporting is ongoing.
  
  
• Route to Competence Discussion
  
  SPAD RSG discussed methods of improving route competence for train drivers. They explored the advantages of simulators and enhanced mentorship programmes.
  
  The importance of maintaining drivers’ route knowledge and competence was emphasised, with suggestions for continuous improvement in training practices. Currently, the industry is experiencing a decline in practical handling and/or contact time with assessors. Additionally, there are too few driver managers to the number of drivers.
  
  The industry needs to recruit more driver managers to cope with the potential influx of drivers. Additional personnel will also enable knowledge transfer, both in the upskilling of new driver standards managers (DSMs) and the capturing of knowledge before current DSMs retire.
  
  
• Grantham Overspeeding Incident 
  
  London North Eastern Railway (LNER) provided a detailed analysis of the Grantham overspeeding incident. It highlighted the importance of supporting drivers who are returning from a phased return to work and ensuring they are competent and feel supported on specific routes. The presentation also included the actions LNER has taken following the incident.
  
  
• The Overspeed Risk Tool Trial
  
  The Overspeed Risk Tool has been successfully trialed in the eastern region. It will remain in use in the region for further validation. The tool will be shared with other regions via operation risk advisors.
  
  The data, which will be shared with RSSB, can be used for proactive speed data research and to quality check insights reporting. Opportunities will be identified to both improve the tool and determine who will own these improvements.

Next meeting: 10 September 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 24 April 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Video Surveillance Strategy and CCTV integration project

The group were briefed on an ongoing video surveillance strategy project for the railway, which is being run by Capgemini. The project highlights the need to enhance video quality, connectivity, and accessibility. The strategy is being developed with a view to supporting future innovations, including the adoption of AI. An update was provided on the British Transport Police (BTP)’s integration efforts to improve access to surveillance footage, which include the:

• rollout of forward-facing CCTV
• implementation of cloud-based access
• ongoing collaboration with train operating companies.

The new system allows real-time downloads from any BTP control room, significantly improving response times and operational efficiency

• Network Rail workstreams

An overview of the Network Rail’s workstreams was presented to the group. They include the:

• Trespass Sprint, which is focused on addressing the increasing impact of trespass incidents on the railway and improving the collaboration within industry
• Rail SAFE agreement, which aims to improve strategic alignment and collaborative response to emergencies on the railway
• Railway Crime Data Strategy project, which emphasises the need for a standardised approach to improve data quality throughout the industry.

• BSI Standard for Suicide Prevention

The British Standards Body (BSI) spoke to the group about the development of a new BSI standard focused on suicide prevention in the workplace. The standard aims to raise awareness and offer practical guidance to organisations. Scheduled for publication in September 2025, it’s being developed with input from a range of stakeholders. The standard will address strategies across prevention, intervention, and postvention, and it will be applicable to organisations of all sizes. It is will use clear, accessible language and will include sections aimed at challenging common misconceptions about suicide. A draft version will be open for public comment for eight weeks, starting in May 2025. Group members were encouraged to review the draft and share their feedback to help ensure its effectiveness and impact.

• Intervention reporting and life-saving intervention definition

The Trespass and Suicide Prevention Working Group is pleased to announce the completion of the Intervention Definition workstream. A comprehensive definition document is now available on the One Stop Shop: intervention-reporting-and-life-saving-intervention-definition.pdf

The document establishes a standardised approach to reporting and categorising interventions, promoting consistency across the industry. It outlines clear criteria for classifying incidents—such as life-saving interventions—and offers guidance on the reporting process. By adopting these definitions and reporting standards, the industry will benefit from more accurate and consistent data, enabling better analysis and a deeper understanding of life-saving interventions.

Next meeting: TBC 

The Trespass and Suicide Prevention Working Group last met on 27 May 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Trespass Bowtie Review

The trespass bowtie was recently reviewed and updated by RSSB and industry stakeholders. The working group has been asked to review the bowtie and provide feedback by 30 June. The group recognises the importance of industry collaboration and will work together to address the challenges and potential risks that are highlighted during the review.

• BTP Disruption Team Update

The BTP disruption team updated the group on Operation Guild, a lighting trial, handback time targets, a people in precarious positions workshop.

Operation Guild, which aims to address youth antisocial behaviour near railway infrastructure. The initiative, which will be launched on June 21, involves obtaining details of individuals and sending letters to their parents to raise awareness and prevent trespass.

A ‘lighting trial’, which will look to enhance lighting for BTP first responders when they are dealing with incidents in low light conditions, will begin shortly. The trial will take place in Stevenage, Manchester, and Glasgow.

BTP reported an average handback time of 88 minutes for non-suspicious fatalities, which is within the 90-minute target. This improvement is attributed to enhanced strategic supervision.

The BTP held a workshop with industry to discuss people in precarious positions (PIPPs). Negotiators joined the workshop to provide an overview of how they assess risk and deal with incidents involving PIPPs.

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 30 May 2025.

The key messages from the meeting were:

• Fatigue Survey

The 2023 RSSB Rail Industry Fatigue Survey results are now live on the RSSB website. Results have reaffirmed that fatigue continues to pose a significant safety and operational risk. Notably, 72% of respondents reported having driven a road vehicle while fatigued within the past 12 months, a statistic that underscores the urgency of addressing fatigue-related risks more proactively. The survey also highlighted a worsening trend in sleep patterns, particularly between night shifts, where workers are getting even less rest than in previous years. These findings not only validate ongoing concerns but also emphasise the need for sustained attention, investment, and cultural change to mitigate and manage fatigue risk.

• Subgroups Progression

The Fatigue Coordination Group’s subgroups are actively engaged in initiatives that are both practical and forward-looking. The NFSG Fatigue Working Group is developing a shared data repository to analyse incident-related fatigue factors, while also reviewing the group’s code of practice. The TOC Fatigue Working Group is refreshing fatigue training materials and exploring new ways to gather high-quality feedback from staff. The ISLG Fatigue Working Group is continuing to workshop mitigation options around meeting ORR guidance and managing the fatigue risk from zero-hours contracts. Meanwhile, Network Rail is piloting innovative fatigue monitoring technologies and launching a high-impact road safety campaign called ‘Sleepiness is Serious’. These efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to collaborative progress and continuous improvement across the industry.

• Upcoming Resources

New resources are being developed to enhance fatigue risk awareness and management at both organisational and individual levels. These include an upcoming Fatigue Risk Management Course (scheduled for July), a proposed e-learning module aimed at frontline workers, and options for sharing practical nutrition information for shift workers. These tools are designed to be accessible, evidence-based, and directly applicable to the day-to-day realities of rail workers. They reflect a broader strategy to empower individuals with the knowledge and support needed to manage fatigue proactively alongside organisational elements.

Next meeting: 15 August 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