Following two recent fatalities of wheelchair users at pedestrian rail crossings in Melbourne, Australia, there has been growing community and government concern over disability access at rail crossings. The Victorian Government commissioned a research study to investigate the issues experienced by people with a disability at rail crossings. This paper presents the findings of the research carried out by consultants Sinclair Knight Merz and the Victorian Department of Infrastructure. The research identified seven key issues for people with disabilities at rail crossings. Based on these seven areas, a ‘toolkit’ of crossing treatments was developed to address the needs of pedestrians with a hearing, visual or mobility impairment. The paper provides an overview of crossing design elements identified in the research, including recent innovations in Australia and internationally. Design elements include pavement surfaces, flangeway gaps, train warning times and warning devices, fencing dimensions, tactile ground surface indicators and maintenance standards. (Author/publisher) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E213531.
Samenvatting