Key Messages from LHSBR Risk Groups
The Leading Health and Safety on Britain's Railway (LHSBR) strategy brings the industry together to continually improve health and safety risk management and achieve the vision it has set out. Collaboration and sharing of knowledge through the risk groups will provide the greatest benefit to the industry as a whole.
LHSBR has identified 12 risk and 5 capability areas. To help the understanding and improvement of health and safety risk, industry has established a collaboration framework with national, sector, and regional arrangements.
At a national level, we have established cross-industry, risk groups focused on health and safety to lead and facilitate collaborative activity.
System Safety
System Safety Risk Group and its subgroups consider the safety risks facing the industry. They lead the conversation on how these risks can be managed and mitigated.
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System Safety Risk Group
The System Safety Risk Group last met on 6 December 2023
The key messages from the meeting were:
- PTI strategy review
The People on Trains and in Stations Group updated SSRG on plans to overhaul their current Platform-Train Interface (PTI) Strategy. This will involve discharge of PTI Working Group’s roadmap items to other working groups, a review of existing PTI bowties, a 2015 strategy gap analysis workshop, and the forming of a new PTI Steering Group (PTI-SG) to set the framework for a new strategy and PTI charter.
SSRG commended and endorsed the approach taken by PTSRG and will seek out members to join the PTI-SG.
- Body-worn cameras
A two-year research project (2021-23) carried out with Cambridge University has shown that body-worn cameras for rail staff has decreased assault rates on frontline staff significantly and have ‘a substantial impact on court outcomes’. The cameras have also led to a decrease in violence around stations beyond staff wearing cameras.
The Rail Delivery Group and Work Related Violence Strategy Group have produced a guidance note on the adoption of body-worn cameras, which is available here.
- Train Accident Risk Group and Trespass and Suicide Prevention Group Refresh
Mark Goodall (Cross Country Trains), incoming Co-chair of TARG, introduced himself and Co-Chair Oliver Schepisi (Nuclear Transport Solutions), providing the group with two new Chairs with experience in train and freight o. SSRG were provided an overview of TARG’s risk profile and current LHSBR challenges in train accident risk, and advised that immediate focus will be on group membership and the strategic direction of the subgroups.
Mark Killick (Network Rail) introduced himself to SSRG as the Chair of the newly-instated TresSPG and gave an overview of activity and challenges in the group, including:
- existing industry support and challenges in securing suitable representation on the group, including representation from the road sector due to the similarity in challenges around access to infrastructure.
- that the group will act as a steering group, focusing on strategy as well as data quality, and ensure collective awareness of good practice.
- that the two existing subgroups will merge from next year.
Both groups will look to industry for suitable representatives to join them imminently.
- Rail Industry Health and Safety Strategy
The industry’s health and safety strategy is currently being drafted and will be launched to coincide with the new financial year. SSRG provided comments which will be incorporated into the document.
- Workforce safety review
Deputy Chair Allan Spence provided an overview of the workforce safety review workshops held in January and October 2023. The review noted that there were no significant gaps in coverage of workforce safety identified, and that there is overall good collaboration in industry. However, industry is still not moving adequately to address the potential safety impact of new technology and how it procures new technology and manages its development.
The Workforce Safety Review Report will be reviewed by SSRG ahead of presentation to the LHSBR Executive Advisory Group in March 2024.
Next meeting: 28 February 2024
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: SSRG@rssb.co.uk
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Asset Integrity Group
The Asset Integrity Group last met on 25 January 2024
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Future System Assurance and the use of AI
The ‘T1315 – Future System Assurance for the 21st Century Digital Railway’ research project has concluded. It has 42 recommendations for future system assurance over the next 10-15 years. The final report will be published in February 2024. The group noted that the research advises against incorporating AI systems into safety-critical control, command and communications applications. This is until the industry gains a deeper understanding of safety assurance of adaptive systems.
- Network Rail’s Bridge Strike Risk Reduction Measures
A presentation on Network Rail’s approach to reduce bridge strike risks was well received by AIG. Bridge strike risk is a recognised area of additional focus. AIG acknowledged that Network Rail’s efforts aimed at mitigating bridge strikes have been effective. This is reflected in the visible improvements observed in the data.
- Precursor Indicator Model Enhancement and Recalibration Project
The Precursor Indicator Model (PIM) has been used by the industry for over two decades to monitor train accident risk. It uses data from the Safety Management Intelligence System (SMIS), Network Rail sources along with risk values from the Safety Risk Model (SRM). This project aims to make enhancements to the current PIM based on user feedback and previous reviews. The project will also produce a plan to enable the PIM to be calibrated with the upcoming SRM v10.
- Enhancing Cybersecurity in Railways
AIG recognised that within the domain of cybersecurity, the industry requires clarity regarding responsibilities and accountabilities. The group agreed that openly sharing cybersecurity vulnerabilities and weaknesses within the railway sector may encourage attackers. There is also a need for the industry to cultivate a culture of shared responsibilities. This would enable stakeholders to collaborate and share best practices in a trusted environment. AIG is committed to producing a high-level guidance document that outlines what an asset manager needs to know about cybersecurity.
- Systems Assurance applied to ETCS
AIG discussed challenges associated with the introduction of ETCS systems. The challenges centred on the efficient application of systems assurance processes. This is partly due to multiple organisational and system interfaces. One of AIG’s work items in its roadmap is on systems assurance of ETCS systems. The group agreed to hold a workshop to agree the scope and accelerate the plan. AIG recognises the benefits ETCS technology brings.
Next meeting: 21 March 204
If you have any questions or wish to contact the group, please email: apoorv.shrivastava@rssb.co.uk cc: AIG@rssb.co.uk.
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Human Factors Strategy Group
The Human Factors Strategy Group last met on 24 May 2023
The key messages from the meeting were:
- New integrated human factors masters apprenticeship
Ben Peachey, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors, spoke to the group about a new integrated human factors masters apprenticeship. His presentation covered how the apprenticeship will work. It is expected that the apprenticeship will help develop human factors competence for the future.
- Terms of reference
The group agreed to revise its existing terms of reference to make it more impactful. A workshop will be held as part of the process.
Next meeting: September 2023
If you have any questions, or want to contact the group, please email: paul.leach@rssb.co.uk -
Infrastructure Safety Leadership Group
The Infrastructure Safety Leadership Group last met on 25 January 2024.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Sharing Lessons Learnt from non-RAIB Incident Reports
The benefits of sharing learning from investigations and significant incident reports produced by Network Rail and ISLG member companies were discussed. ISLG will contact industry stakeholders to explore how to share learning, including whether Network Rail’s Safety Central may be a suitable platform.
- Decrease in Earthing Irregularities
The average number of isolation and earthing irregularities reported in the Safety Management Information System has decreased through 2023/24, from 4 to approximately 2.5 per period. This reduction is below the confidence bounds, indicating that this is a statistically significant decrease. Promotion of the work that contributed to this is required so that the success can be built on and shared with the industry.
- New ISLG Network Project Definition Statement
A new Project Definition Statement has been developed to address the ‘meet and greet’ issues being experienced with plant deliveries. There are plans to formulate an additional statement to address the issues associated with the use of contingent or zero-hours workers in the industry.
- CIRAS Update
Katie Healy of CIRAS has become a member of ISLG to enhance further engagement with the organisation. CIRAS is being rebranded to improve its visibility and provide a clear and consistent narrative. This is expected to increase its impact on health and safety.
Next meeting: 28 March 2024
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: ros.osawe@rssb.co.uk.
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Level Crossing Strategy Group
The Level Crossing Strategy Group last met on 16 November 2023.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- New legislation
Following two rounds of formal consultation led by DfT, our new suite of level crossing safety signs has been entered into new regulations. The Private Crossings (Signs and Barriers) Regulations 2023 were laid before Parliament for approval on the 26 October and came into force on 18 November.
- Near misses data
Near misses with pedestrians remain high, with 117 events in Q2 (Periods 4-6).
- The number of pedestrians incorrectly using level crossings continues to rise.
- Period 6 saw a spike in the number of near misses involving road vehicles, mostly agricultural vehicles. While this correlates with harvest season, it is higher than recent Period 6 figures.
- Roadmap review
Members commenced an initial review of the group’s roadmap for CP7. Six high-level strategic themes were identified by the group to discuss and prioritise further through ongoing collaborative working:
- Strategy, standards, leadership and co-ordination
- Improving understanding and control of risk
- Making the case for closure and upgrade
- Communication level crossing safe use
- Enforcing level crossing behaviours
- Cross risk group workstreams
- Cross-group collaboration
The group agreed joint discussions were needed with the Train Accident Risk Group regarding the impact of new Temporary Speed Restrictions/Emergency Speed Restrictions and consequential SPAD events.
Next meeting: 8 February 2024
If you have any questions or wish to contact the group, please email: Gemma.Lavery@RSSB.co.uk
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National Freight Safety Group
The National Freight Safety Group last met on 23 January 2024
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Pandemic Playbook
NFollowing an informative presentation on the Pandemic Playbook, NFSG has committed to sponsoring a freight simulation exercise during 2024. The purpose is to demonstrate the application of the Pandemic Playbook in developing pandemic preparedness.
- Freight fatigue 2024 action plan
The Freight Fatigue Working Group will develop guidance and tools for control and duty manager roles, to provide support once fatigue factors are breached or highlighted. This work follows the RAIB report on the collision between two freight trains at Loversall Carr Junction.
- Freight Safe Programme
NFSG received an update on the Freight Safe Programme progress, including on the inclusion of NFSG activity within the programme. In addition, an update was provided on the recent review conducted around the freight derailment project work and the proposed changes due to this review.
- Freight Safe Improvement Programme in CP7
The Freight Safe Improvement Programme manager provided a review of the scheme’s successful usage during Control Period (CP) 6. Looking forward to CP7, a new process has been introduced, highlighting the scheme’s alignment with the freight safe strategic priorities.
- Health and wellbeing opportunities
Opportunities for freight representation in current RSSB health and wellbeing research and policy projects were identified, which would increase freight representation in relevant areas. All operators agreed to consider taking up the roles.
Date of next meeting: 23 April 2024
If you have any questions, or would like to contact the group, please email: freight@rssb.co.uk -
On-Board Train Working Group
The On-Board Train Working Group last met on 29 November 2023
The key messages from the meeting were:
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Navigating evolving luggage guidelines
As the group revisits the good practice guide on passenger luggage, it is apparent that the landscape of rail travel has undergone notable changes, particularly in the post-Covid. With rail seeing more leisure passengers, often carrying luggage, it is essential to address the existing disparities in the luggage regulations of different train operating companies. The aim is to ensure that the good practice guide remains relevant and an effective by incorporating current data and accommodating changing patterns in passenger behaviour.
- Addressing overcarry incidents
The discussions shed light on the concern regarding passenger overcarry incidents, notably in yards, depots and sidings. There is a shared concern that these incidents may be underreported, potentially due to limitations in data systems. Despite this, there is an opportunity for improvement by including the information of the origin station where the train was taken out of passenger service and rolling stock information in reports, giving a practical solution without adding unnecessary workload. The central theme is to address potential underreporting and continue improvement in safety practices. The group agreed that passenger overcarry – in all its forms – was worthy of a dedicated bowtie so the risks could be fully quantified and the effectiveness of control measures identified.
Next meeting 5 March 2024
If you have any questions, or would like to contact the group, please email: ptsrg@rssb.co.uk
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People on Trains and at Stations Risk Group
The People on Trains and at Stations Risk Group last met on 8 February 2024.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Effectiveness of working groups
PTSRG’s working groups are delivering against their plans and offering noteworthy contributions to PTSRG’s overall objectives. The dedication and commitment of working group members is playing a vital role in progressing with the roadmap items. PTSRG appreciates and recognises their contributions. To get involved in any of the PTSRG working groups, please contact Nidhi Ajmera at PTSRG@RSSB.CO.UK.
- Impact of self-evacuations and platform changes
Recent incidents indicate a decrease in customer tolerance when they find themselves on board a stranded train. With passengers opting for self-evacuation in shorter timeframes, PTSRG and its working groups will reassess existing protocols and action plans (particularly those developed by the Asset Integrity Group) to prioritise passenger safety and mitigate any form of unmanaged train evacuation.
Recent incidents, such as the track incursion at Hayes and Harlington, have highlighted significant risks being created by standard operational adjustments. The Hayes and Harlington incident was caused by a short notice platform alteration.
These incidents serve as a reminder of the consequences of prioritising operational convenience over passenger expectations. PTSRG encourages industry to prioritise passenger safety and convenience by ensuring that lessons learned from incidents like these are disseminated more effectively.
- Collaborative efforts to address slip, trips and falls
Slips, trips, and falls (STFs) are a significant concern across the industry. Efforts to reduce the risk are not having the desired effect. This highlights the need for collaborative action. PTSRG will work with the Passenger Operators Safety Forum to tackle this challenge. They’ll leverage the collective expertise and resources, as well as identify good practice.
- PTI strategy workshop
An initial review of the 2015 PTI strategy has highlighted the benefit of a comprehensive refresh to ensure alignment with current industry standards and the post-COVID environment. Following industry feedback, gained through a survey, a gap analysis workshop will be held. It will bring together industry experts to delve deeper into survey findings and recommendations. A more concise and relevant strategy that addresses emerging industry challenges and harnesses new technologies is sought.
- Optimising crowd management strategies
Recent evaluations of crowd safety at Network Rail managed stations have uncovered gaps in expertise and strategy. In response, efforts are intensifying to refine crowd management techniques, with a focus on addressing specific issues such as passenger flow and behavioural patterns. Additionally, clarifying terminology by avoiding terms like ‘overcrowding’ and emphasising ‘managing congestion levels’ for passenger comfort and safety are encouraged. The Stations Working Group will lead the work on incident management, reporting back to the PTSRG.
- Addressing musculoskeletal disorders in GB rail
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) contribute to sickness and absence, and the associated cost to industry. RSSB has launched project T1278 to enhance safety, health and wellbeing, and achieve cost efficiencies. This project will conduct the first industry-wide MSD survey, providing crucial data to understand and address the issue. Industry-wide participation in the survey is highly encouraged. For more information contact kirsten.huysamen@rssb.co.uk.
Next meeting: 9 May 2024
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: PTSRG@rssb.co.uk
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Platform Train Interface Working Group
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
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Rail Freight Operations Group
The Rail Freight Operations Group last met on 14 September 2023.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Train Protection and Warning System
The group discussed Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS) activation, including what the criteria and actions should be, where relevant, especially when relief can be provided (a proportional response). Both the use of a dynamic risk assessment process and having a record of the on-call manager’s decision making for fit to continue/not fit to continue were deemed beneficial. The RFOG Chair will request support from NFSG to produce guidance and encourage use among FOCs.
- Divided trains
RFOG agreed that the current level of divided trains is giving cause for concern and agreed that data is needed to support a focus on the root cause. FOCs were encouraged to enter data into SMIS to build a better picture of the incidents. In addition, RFOG Chair will request support from NFSG to research further into divided trains.
- Welfare facilities
Kimberley Harding, Birmingham University, joined the meeting to discuss the improvement to welfare facilities for freight. Her attendance was part of an information gathering exercise for a draft bid for DfT funding. It was agreed that welfare facilities need to be improved and so this is an area that needs attention. Last year RSSB published Provision of Welfare Facilities for Rail Workers.
- Total Operations Processing System programme of work
The Total Operations Processing System Working Group is currently reviewing terminology in the Rule Book that doesn’t comply with modern law and safety. The updates will be published and communicated in the coming months.
- Loading
Peter Darling, ORR, highlighted the importance of safe loading. He said it is vital to work with others when loading and to adhere to guidelines to avoid overloading and consequent incidents.
Next meeting: 7 December 2023
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: freight@rssb.co.uk.
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Road Risk GroupThe Road Risk Group last met on 6 February 2024
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Accreditation Schemes
RRG was joined by Garry Lewis, Mission Zero, who gave an overview of the accreditation scheme. He noted that it would provide industry with an alternative means of accreditation for organisations whose profiles do not fit existing accreditation schemes. The presentation is available here.
Carl Rulton, RISQS, also joined the meeting. He discussed a proposal for an optional extra road risk module for the supply chain to provide additional assurance for buyers.
RRG agreed to undertake a review of its accreditation Equivalency Matrix to facilitate the latter before endorsing the proposal. For more information on the Equivalency Matrix, please contact RRG@rssb.co.uk.
- Driving for Better Business Driving for Work Policy Toolkit
Driving for Better Business provided the RRG with a preview of their Driving for Work Policy Toolkit, which is due for publication in April 2024. The toolkit will set out both risk and control measures for managing driving for work policy within a business. It will also provide guidance for managers and leaders on how to engage drivers on policy.
You can scan the QR code below for more information:
- ISLG Road Traffic Collision Investigation Workshop
The ISLG Road Risk Sector Group will hold the first of its Road Traffic Collision (RTC) Investigation Toolkit Workshops in early March. It will use an existing incident to form a case study. The case study will be shared on the RTC Investigation Toolkit webpage in due course.
- Passenger Train and Freight Operators – Update of RDG-OPS-GN-010
The Freight and Passenger Train Operator Road Risk Group has reviewed the ‘RDG OPS-GN-010 Managing the Risk to Passengers and Staff from the Use of Contracted Road Services’. They have proposed several updates, including the section on assurance activity undertaken in taxi procurement, particularly around fatigue and accreditation. The current draft will go to the Passenger Operator Safety Forum in March for approval.
- Network Rail – Rail Industry Road Safety Week – Wales & Western Region
The Road Risk Group was thanked for their efforts and involvement in the Rail Industry Road Safety Week, which took place in November 2023. The Network Rail Wales & Western Region got a special mention. Its roadshow programme included 14 events across the region, with some hosted by Great Western and Transport for Wales, and visits from Deutschebahn and Colas Rail.
It is hoped that this activity will help provide a blueprint for Rail Industry Road Safety Week 2024. If you would like to participate this year, please contact RRG@rssb.co.uk.
Next meeting:TBAIf you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: RRG@rssb.co.uk
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SPAD Risk Subgroup
The SPAD Risk Subgroup last met on 17 January 2024.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Increase in SPAD Risk
During December there were 21 SPADs. The annual moving total of SPADs nationwide at the end of December 2023 was 294, showing that the SPAD risk is rising. The group will investigate this further by reviewing higher risk SPADs where there was potential for passenger collisions and accidents. The group will report back their findings at the next SPAD RSG meeting in May.
- Good Practice Shared Regarding ECS SPADs
Scotrail presented to SPAD RSG the work they have done to reduce the rate of ECS SPADs. The group was shown a poster campaign which included a link to a video of drivers discussing ECS risks. Scotrail has agreed to share their resources with members of SPAD RSG so operators can use some of the strategies to reduce ECS SPAD risk. Additionally, the RSSB will release some additional ECS guidance in February to combat the risk of ECS SPADs.
- SPAD Power BI Dashboard
The group was introduced to RSSB’s new multi-SPAD dashboard. It will enable users to review trends of multi-SPAD signals—where there have been at least two SPADs at the same signal during the last five years. This will allow operators to understand and highlight the signals where repeated SPADs occur. The group aims to provide feedback on the multi-SPAD dashboard at the next meeting.
You can access our SPAD danger reports and data here.
- SPAD Risk Ranking Tool Update
The group discussed the SPAD Risk Ranking Tool being misapplied in industry and the need to provide a tool that enables the industry to compare SPADs. The tool would focus on areas such as freight risk and risk tolerability, and scope would be widened to look at level crossings. Following the discussion, volunteers from SPAD RSG have agreed to meet with the Risk and Safety Intelligence & R&D teams at RSSB to discuss how to improve the SPAD Risk Ranking Tool.
- PQ Driver Analysis
RSSB’s Human Factors team updated SPAD RSG with further analysis from the PQ SPADs driver data deep-dive. They shared the results of the PQ driver survey as well as casual data. Notable findings show that drivers can be prone to errors. Additionally, frequent driving is important to develop driving skills. Gaining experience and exposure to different operational scenarios will improve a driver’s risk perception, ability to identify hazards, decision making, and situational awareness. These results may lead to a future PQ driver data deep-dive that looks at other operational incidents, not just SPADs, to see if there is any correlation.
Next meeting:
The next SPAD RSG meeting is on Tuesday 7 May 2024 at the Helicon / Microsoft Teams. -
Stations Working Group
The Stations Working Group last met on 21 February 2024.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Learnings from York rail operating centre visit
Network Rail hosted SWG at their York offices and arranged for the group to visit the adjacent rail operating centre (ROC), for which we give thanks. At the ROC, we heard about the challenges and benefits of controllers, signallers and TOC staff working together at one location to manage an enormous area of rail infrastructure. It was particularly useful to hear how incidents of people sitting on the platform edge (SOPE) and retrieving items from the track (RIFT) impact signallers’ and controllers daily tasks and workload. This formed the basis of discussion during the meeting and will be useful in the ongoing projects.
- Guidance on Retrieval of Items from the Track
The group discussed changes in the profile of rail users as well as changes in customer expectations. They also discussed retrieval of items from the track (RIFT), highlighting the importance of preventative measures rather than solely focusing on retrieval.
Concerning RIFT, the group said comprehensive guidance is needed. Developing this could involve other stakeholders through a gap analysis workshop. This would ensure the guidance is bold, compelling, persuasive, and evidence-based.
- Managing Passenger Congestion
The discussions underscored the need to address passenger congestion and management at stations. Collaboration and clear ownership between industry groups such as RSSB, Rail Partners, Network Rail, GBRTT, and the Rail Delivery Group is essential to address the risks and opportunities related to planned events. These include as safety concerns, customer experience, communication, and commercial aspects. As offline discussions progress to establish clear ownership and governance of this issue, the primary focus for the SWG will remain to identify and understand the specific risks posed by passenger congestion as well as the importance of terminology.
- Planned general inspections
A gap analysis was carried out on planned general inspections (PGI) templates that were submitted to the group. Disparities were observed among operators. The group has highlighted an opportunity for standardisation across the industry. The group emphasised the need for clarity on what constitutes a PGI. Additionally, defined minimum requirements for a sufficient and suitable inspection proportionate to the location.
Next meeting: 21 May 2024
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: PTSRG@rssb.co.uk
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Suicide Prevention Programme Board
The Suicide Prevention Programme Board last met on 13 January 2021.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Suicide Prevention Programme Board
In relation to the SPDHG tactical review, the group discussed renaming themselves to The Suicide Prevention Programme Board and involving the stakeholder group, RISSG, further in the programme’s work. The change will enable the membership of RISSG to be fully utilised and take a more pro-active role in the aims and projects of the Suicide Prevention Programme Board. With a broad membership base from a variety of rail and related industry backgrounds, it is hoped that allowing them to become more immersed in the agenda setting procedure will lead to a broader scope of work and activities with a wider focus.
- Dissuasion campaign
Following a small piece of pracademic research in 2020, a Dissuasion campaign will be launching in March 2021 with a second phase planned for September, timed to coincide with the traditional suicide ‘peaks’ on the network. The campaign wishes to encourage help-seeking behaviour in people who may be struggling with their mental health, before they reach the stage of a suicidal crisis. Both individuals with lived experience and James Bannerman, the author of the pracademic research, have had input into the campaign. For this campaign a mental health focused charity, ‘Chasing the Stigma’, have been partnered with and their ‘Hub of Hope’ app will be promoted as part of the campaign. The Hub of Hope app allows users to find and access the support that they need in their local area. As well as a film and the usual printed collateral, the campaign will have a full toolkit available for use at stations.
- Suicide Prevention Roadmap
A framework document, known as the suicide prevention roadmap, has been drafted to outline how the industry should work together to make the railway a better and safer environment. The roadmap sets out the agreed collaborative activity, which has been identified to improve performance and address the strategic challenges faced by the industry. It is hoped that the roadmap will provide a guide to the work being planned, enable focus to be maintained on the activities and strategies and provide opportunities for collaboration.
- Suicidal activity during lockdown
The Group was provided with an update from British Transport Police (BTP) on the suicidal activity during the lockdown period. Overall, there have been less suicides this year than at the same point in the previous year, however it is too soon to speculate on the reasons for this. During the first national lockdown, there was a significant decrease in activity but once the restrictions were eased, incidents started to increase. It is very hard to predict the factors that influence suicidal activity but areas showing marked changes are being analysed to hopefully provide some insight into the reasons for the changes. No recent suicides show that there is a link to COVID-19, but this is being continually monitored. There is also an awareness of the potential for the economic outlook to affect suicide rates in the future.
- Samaritans intervention reporting
Samaritans informed the group that they have plans to create a standard approach to interventions reporting based on best practice from across the rail industry. To accompany this, a pilot study with Transport for Wales is taking place to investigate why some interventions do not get reported and to discover why other organisations are very successful at capturing and reporting the same data. It is hoped that the results of this pilot study will provide learning outcomes that can contribute to an industry-wide best practice going forward.
Next meeting: TBC. -
Train Accident Risk Group
The Train Accident Risk Group last met on 7 February 2024.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Poor depot maintenance causing derailments
TARG’s analysis of causal data has revealed that poor depot maintenance is causing derailments. The main issues are a build-up of mud on railheads, poor conditions of back roads and rail heads, and wheel flanges being below Network Rail wear limits. Addressing this risk is one of the SPAD Risk Subgroup’s deliverable for 2024/25. The group will investigate it further and produce guidance on the risks in yards, depots, and sidings.
- New TARG chairs
The new TARG chairs Mark Goodall (Cross-Country) and Oliver Schepisi (NTS Global) were welcomed to TARG. They will help to reshape and refine the strategic direction of the group.
- Precursor Indicator Model
A presentation was given on the Precursor Indicator Model (PIM) enhancement and recalibration project. TARG will support the project, which includes clarifying the scope of some precursors and updating the user guidance needs, as PIM data feed into its data packs.
- Train Protection Strategy update
The proposed update, engagement and consultation of the industry’s Train Protection Strategy was presented. The current timescales for delivery are July 2024, with submission to Vehicle/Train Control & Communications System Interface Committee and RSSB Board. TARG will be consulted throughout this process as a key cross-industry stakeholder group, particularly around the aspects of the migration strategy and the cross-industry functional requirements.
- Digital temporary speed restriction boards
To help improve speed restriction management, the trial of digital temporary speed restriction (TSR) boards on the Marston Vale Line was discussed. Part of the trial will include a survey for system installers, system operators, and drivers to evaluate the effectiveness of these boards before any wider adoption. It was agreed that the findings from the outcome of the trial will be presented at a future TARG.
Next meeting: 29 May 2024
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: TARG@rssb.co.uk -
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Strategy Group
The Trespass and Suicide Prevention Strategy Group last met on 25 January 2024.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Focus areas
In this first meeting of the year, TreSP SG outlined and discussed key focus areas for 2024, including forming task and finish groups. The groups would examine specific areas within the industry.
Several of the focus areas were identified in a bowtie review in 2023. A whole industry approach is needed to address the challenges and potential risks, and the group recognises the importance of industry collaboration.
The task and finish groups would play a crucial role by sharing best practice and developing effective solutions.
- Trespass and Suicide Prevention Working Group
The new Trespass and Suicide Prevention Working Group (TreSP WG) met for the first time on 16 January. The group comprises members of the disbanded Trespass Risk Group and National Suicide Prevention Working Group.
The group reviewed its remit, which is aligned with the TreSP SG’s terms of reference. The remit, which will be published shortly, includes:
- underpinning trespass and suicide prevention industry activities and identifying initiatives that seek to reduce the likelihood of suicides on the railway
- enhancing cooperation and improving effectiveness of industry’s toolkits through active support and collaboration
- supporting task and finish groups in the delivery of remitted projects and highlighting emerging issues, best practice, and championing cross-industry activity to address these.
Additionally, the group received industry updates on data, national campaigns, and both ongoing and potential future workstreams and activities.
- Rail safety education
Education plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of young people when they are on or near the railway. Better education and awareness can prevent incidents.
The industry has made progress in rail safety education by creating educational resources for school key stages one to four. This has reduced child trespass. But more can be done, so TreSP SG is backing a campaign for rail safety education to be added to the national curriculum.
A letter to the Secretary of State for education has been prepared and signed off by Network Rail. This letter has been endorsed by senior stakeholders from train operators, freight operators, ORR, DfT, and GBRTT.
Next meeting: 16 May 2024If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: trespassandsuicidepreventionsg@rssb.co.uk
Rail Health and Wellbeing
The Rail Wellbeing Alliance and its subgroups consider the health and wellbeing risks facing the industry. They lead the conversation on how these risks can be managed and mitigated.
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Rail Wellbeing Alliance
The Rail Wellbeing Alliance last met on 21 July 2023.
The key messages from the meeting were:
Rail Wellbeing Live 2023
Rail Wellbeing Live 2023 is taking place from 7-9 November. The host for the opening session and Wellbeing Hero Award has been confirmed as Kate Silverton, Journalist. There will be live links during the opening session at various locations. The agenda is now largely complete. Registrations will open in early September 2023. The wide variety of topics provide something for everyone, both management and frontline workers. Look out for notifications for when registration is open and encourage your colleagues to register.
Communications
RSSB’s Content and Membership Communications team advised that the Leading Health and Safety on Britain’s Railway (LHSBR) relaunch campaign will be run from November 2023 to January 2024. LHSBR Health and Wellbeing will be the focus in December 2023. This will feature outputs of the work specifically in that arena. To view the current outputs see Health and Wellbeing (rssb.co.uk).
Health and wellbeing data
Rail Wellbeing Alliance was given a live demonstration of the development of the health data dashboard. This included further development in collaboration with the Office of Rail and Road of the health surveillance indicators and deeper analysis of sickness absences, such as cost, long-term absence, and self-reported reasons. Currently, 21 companies are involved in the pilot, providing their health data and participating in benchmarking groups. The long-term strategy for this tool is to embed within industry the Safety Management Intelligence System equivalent for health and wellbeing. See Health and Wellbeing Data (rssb.co.uk) for further details.
RWA workstream
Rail Wellbeing Alliance is in the process of reviewing the health and wellbeing workstream with the aim to ensure they are working on the most pressing issues for industry and streamlining the outputs. All group chairs and sponsors have been consulted and various options for the way forward will be discussed at a workshop on 2 August 2023.
Next meeting: 7 September 2023
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk
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Business Engagement and Measurement Group
The Business Engagement and Measurement Group last met on 17 January 2023.
The key messages from the meeting were:
Confidential Incident Reporting & Analysis Service (CIRAS)
BEAM received a presentation from CIRAS, which is an independent, not-for-profit, subsidiary of RSSB. It offers a confidential reporting process for the workforce to raise health and safety issues. BEAM was supplied with an analysis of CIRAS’ data and will receive regular updates on this at future meetings. BEAM concluded that CIRAS should be promoted across the industry more as it provides independent, external assurance on management process.
HWI Business Case Tool
The Institute of Transport Studies, University of Leeds, in collaboration with RSSB Research and Development, has developed a tool to undertake cost-benefit analysis of health and wellbeing interventions. BEAM is appealing for companies to trial the veracity of the tool. The trial can use live data or historical data to determine the cost benefit of present or past interventions. If you are willing to take part in the trial, please contact Andrew Gleeson, Senior Partnership and Research Manager, at RSSB for further details.
Beam Roadmap and Remit
The current roadmap and remit for BEAM was discussed and it was agreed that the group is focusing on the right areas. The roadmap and remit were endorsed.
Next meeting: 20 April 2023
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk
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Fatigue Coordination Group
The Fatigue Coordination Group last met on 16 February 2024.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Key Industry Updates Discussed
An update on the Network Rail Fatigue Standard will be provided in six months. A comprehensive review will take place in 12 months. The ORR’s ‘Managing Rail Staff Fatigue’ is being revised and is out for consultation. The fatigue group chairs will meet on 27 February to discuss drafting a potential response from the fatigue groups. The FCG will monitor these changes and will feedback to their subgroups as appropriate.
- The Fatigue Roadmap for CP7 is Being Developed
The FCG reviewed the draft fatigue roadmap for CP7. The roadmap will be shared with the fatigue subgroups to gather feedback before it is finalised. The group will then agree on priorities for 2024.
- Fatigue Forum in June 2024
RSSB will hold its second Fatigue Forum in June 2024, following the success of the first event in November 2023. The agenda and date will be confirmed later in the year.
Next meeting: 17 May 2024
If you have any questions, or would like to contact the group, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk.
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Healthy Cultures Group
The Healthy Cultures Group last met on 21 March 2023.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- The Wellbeing Champions Training is being Reviewed
To date, 145 wellbeing champions across our member organisations have taken part in our Wellbeing Champions training. Feedback has been positive. We are now discussing uplifting the training so it aligns with our ethos of taking a behaviour change approach. This would include follow-up collaboration, peer support sessions and a resource hub on the RSSB website. There is support for this uplift. Details are currently being defined and will be shared with the group.
- The HCG has Reviewed the Group Roadmap
The group reviewed the roadmap in light of current challenges and risks and agreed that the following key issues will be explored in CP7:
- management of specific health concerns such as type 2 diabetes and obesity
- how to engage frontline staff and overcome cultural barriers that makes engaging with this section of the workforce challenging
- support for gambling and addictions, which are reported to have increased across the industry
- utilisation and implementation of existing resources to support healthy cultures
- Rail Wellbeing Live 2023
Rail Wellbeing Live will run from 07–09 November this year. The HCG has a 30-minute slot. Group members have been asked to contact RSSB’s Health and Wellbeing Specialist, Niamh McMahon, at Niamh.McMahon@rssb.co.uk with any ideas they might have for the session. We may have to provide a session title and details before the next meeting, but the group will be informed about session details.
Next meeting: 27 June 2023
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk
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Mental Wellbeing Group
The Mental Wellbeing Group last met on 15 November 2023.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Review of the Railway Mental Health Charter has been extended
The charter team has extended the review to 2024. The aim is to publish the new version by April 2024.
- Last meeting of the MWG
In light of the restructure currently being carried out to subgroups of the Rail Wellbeing Alliance, this has been the last meeting of the MWG. Mental wellbeing will still be a key area for future work, but it’s management will be done through a new group, the Health and Wellbeing Action Group.
- Royal National Lifeboat Institution shared their approach to trauma management
Two employees from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) introduced the organisation’s work and shared that their volunteers can be exposed to a variety of potentially traumatic events. RNLI volunteers receive awareness training for potentially traumatic events and can access support following a potentially traumatic event.
- Lack of definitive evidence on psychosocial effects of working from home
David Hardman (RSSB) returned to the group to present the outcomes of a knowledge search on homeworking. According to this work, there do not appear to be any clear reasons why remote or hybrid working should be avoided, but clear evidence for or against homeworking is not robust yet.
If you have any questions, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk -
Musculoskeletal Disorder Group
The Musculoskeletal Disorders Group (MSDG) last met on 21 November 2023
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Next steps on the long-term vision
The MSDG has created a vision that outlines the short-, medium- and long-term activities the MSD workstream would like to achieve. The next steps will focus on collecting MSD data within the rail industry. The group also discussed a dissemination plan for the vision.
- Exploring the risk and extent of MSDs in GB rail
Kirsten Huysamen, Lead Human Factors Specialist, RSSB, presented an update on the T1278 project, which will undertake the first industry-wide musculoskeletal disorder survey. The survey, which will go live at the beginning of 2024, will provide new data that will allow organisations to understand the severity and landscape of the problem. This project is supported by the MSDG and is in line with the group’s long-term vision. The survey can be accessed via a link or QR code, and your organisation can partake by please contacting Kirsten.Huysamen@rssb.co.uk
- Improvement is needed in reporting of MSDs
To achieve the said long-term vision, clear data on MSDs is needed to understand areas for intervention and future work. Higher quality data on MSDs would allow us to target better the controls needed to manage the risk effectively. As said, the group discussed potential steps to improve MSD reporting.
- Back-on-Line was presented at Rail Wellbeing Live
The MSDG’s session at Rail Wellbeing Live was presented by Dr Liba Sheeran on the Back-on-Line app which was designed to help rail workers better manage their back pain at work. The session can be viewed on demand here.
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk
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Occupational Health & Hygiene Advisory Group
The Occupational Health & Hygiene Advisory Group last met on 7 February 2024.
The key messages from the meeting were:
- Inception of the Occupational Health and Hygiene Action Group
The Occupational Health and Hygiene Action Group (OHHAG) has been formed as part of the Rail Wellbeing Alliance’s (RWA) workstream restructure to reduce areas of overlap and duplication between the original subgroups. This group combines the previous Occupational Health Advisory Group (OHAG) and the Occupational Hygiene Management Group (OHMG) to form this group. OHHAG will initiate activity through task and finish groups to address critical occupational health and hygiene issues.
- Purpose of OHHAG
OHHAG is to develop and oversee a strategic roadmap for an improved approach to the prevention of harm, and early identification and intervention on ill-health risks. The overall scope and interface with the new Health and Wellbeing Action Group (HWAG) are still to be defined.
Both OHHAG and HWAG will work together to help rail organisations understand and address organisational risks to the health and wellbeing of employees.
- Long-term Vision
The long-term vision for OHHAG is to ensure an improving picture of ill health across the industry. This will be delivered via task and finish groups delivering projects or pieces of work based on priority areas of concern raised by the group. The current projects on medical standards development and managing the risk associated with medical impairment in safety-critical workers were discussed. OHHAG will be the primary client group for this work.
- Task and Finish Groups
OHHAG discussed suggestions for topics to work on. The likely topics for task and finish groups would be picking up the Occupational Health in Rail Training project and developing a Health Risk Profile (risk profile) for rail workers. Task and finish groups will require a talent pool of individuals with a specific interest in the topic of the group. This will be drawn from the OHHAG membership and wider industry where needed.
Next meeting: 14 May 2024
If you have any questions or would like to contact the group, please email: health&wellbeing@rssb.co.uk
- Inception of the Occupational Health and Hygiene Action Group