Special attention must be given to level crossings. A collision between a train and another vehicle, for instance, usually has fatal consequences. All level crossings, where there is potential for collisions, should be equipped with automatic barriers and other preventive equipment, to limit speed or stop road vehicles from crossing the track when a train is approaching.


The human factor Workers must be able to safely operate the railway system. The training must be thorough, with enough time to learn both theory and practice. It is especially important to allow newcomers to the industry time to gain a certain level of practical experience before they are given full responsibility for safety related tasks. Training and competence should be proved by official certification systems.


Social conditions, especially working time legal regulations and Collective Bargaining Agreements are very important standards. For workers to stay vigilant, the length of day and night shifts must be properly regulated, driving time must be limited, and the lengths of breaks, daily rest and protection against violence must be guaranteed, as must proper noise levels, temperature and work place ergonomics. At the same time good regulations are of little value if they are not implemented. Far too often we see employers putting pressure on the workers to work overtime and to bend the regulations when there are train delays. Safety must come before being on time. Safety cannot be compromised even when it comes to bullet trains because any small technical defect or human error can lead to massive casualties.


Training procedures, working time regulations and enforcement procedures should all be important parts of the railway workers’ Collective Bargaining Agreements.


The right of each individual worker to refuse to carry out dangerous or unsafe work is enshrined in ILO convention 155 Article 13:


“A worker who has removed himself from a work situation which he has reasonable justification to believe presents an imminent and serious danger to his life or health shall be protected from undue consequences in accordance with national conditions and practice”.


Sixty-two countries ratified this convention and this right is implemented in national labor protection laws. This right is fundamental to railway workers. If a situation is considered as potentially dangerous, the work (trains) should be stopped without the workers being disciplined. On the contrary, in our view they should be rewarded. Even if this specific ILO convention is not ratified, it sets an international standard for workers worldwide and should be respected.


How railway safety can be maintained and improved Railway safety is about technical equipment and the interaction with human beings. Every change that is done on the technical side, or in the organization of work or companies, should have a focus to improve safety. This should be proven by risk assessments with meaningful union involvement. Risk assessments should be transparent and the trade unions should have the right to consult independent experts at the cost of the companies.


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