Passengers ignore door safety risks, reveals RSSB

Passengers are ignoring the risks of boarding trains when doors are closing, according to research by the RSSB (Rail Safety and Standards Board).

Its research shows that almost three-quarters of passengers will try to board a train when the door alarm starts to sound, and more than half are intent on boarding just before the doors close.

57% of passengers said they would board trains even if the door closing alarm has been on “for a while”, and 16% will still try to board the train even as the doors are closing in front of them.

Of those interviewed, two-thirds of passengers said they failed to associate the door closing alarm as meaning ‘stand back’. Most passengers also believe that train doors are as sensitive as those on lifts and will always reopen if there is an obstruction.

The research has revealed great variety in the types of doors on trains, with some taking longer than others to close. RSSB says enhanced audible messages and timings of warnings and alarm types can help reduce the risk of so-called ‘trap and drag’ incidents.

The safety body points out that passengers have been injured in incidents at King’s Cross in 2011, Jarrow in April 2012, Newcastle Central in June 2013, West Wickham in April 2015, and Hayes & Harlington in July 2015.

The rail industry is examining how to increase passenger awareness of the risks and encourage more vigilant behaviour, despite the pressures that some passengers feel to board their train even if risks are involved.

RSSB Human Factors Specialist Paul Leach said: “It’s vital that passengers aren’t tempted to make a dash for the doors, no matter how rushed they are. The best way to avoid the risk of a nasty accident is to keep back from the edge and not try to get on or off once the door alarm starts to sound.

“Despite their appearance, train doors are not like lift doors, and won’t necessarily reopen if something is trapped in them.”