Understanding the risk of smart devices in the driving cab to improve safety
Unauthorised ‘mobile smart devices’ in the driver’s cab present risks to operational safety.
It had been a decade since RSSB created evidence-based guidance and training on how this should be controlled. Since then, there have been significant changes in the usage, ownership, and functionalities of smart devices.
So, there was the need to evaluate current control measures for their unauthorised use in the driving cab and to determine the best ways to reduce this risk.
We evaluated the effectiveness of current control measures. This included looking at standards, guidance, research, and policies. We also surveyed drivers and driver managers.
The work also considered future technological trends. This enabled us to assess the effectiveness of control measures over the next 5 years.
The report highlights good practice in managing unauthorised ‘smart devices’ in the cab. This helps passenger and freight operators. It is also applicable to infrastructure management operating companies.
This research gives operators an in-depth understanding of the risks associated with smart devices in the driver’s cabs and relevant control measures.
In doing so, it provides a reference point for operators to review and update their existing policies.
By accounting for both current and emerging risks from future changes to these devices, these can be better managed. This will ultimately improve operational safety on our rail network.