This paper discusses public perception of railway safety in the UK. Regular rail passengers do not consider network safety to be a major concern although more concerns have been expressed since privatisation of the rail industry. The general public perceives rail transport as being less safe than private car transport. This misconception arises from publicity surrounding major disasters and the feeling of a lack of control. Greater clarity, accountability and transparency is needed in management and it is important to realise that statistical considerations do not carry weight. Passenger representation at inquiries about incidents should be regulated through the involvement of passenger bodies. Recommendations include a public relations policy, improvement of the overcrowding situation, improvement of level crossings, installation of train protection systems, prevention of trespass and elimination of slam-door train stock. For the covering abstract see ITRD E119655.
Samenvatting