The Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB) and the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) have signed a landmark agreement which will see the two organisations working hand in hand to further reduce the risks of accidents on UK tramways. A memorandum of understanding is now in place which further strengthens links between the two organisations.
Speaking after the signing of the agreement, Carl Williams, LRSSB Chief Executive, said: “In a previous report on our work to date, the ORR recognised the value of the LRSSB to the sector, and the signing of this MoU delivers another important vote of confidence in our organisation from the regulator. It comes at an important time as we look towards further growth and the delivery of a host of ambitious projects over the next few years.”
As well as formalising existing arrangements (which includes reviews of the work of the LRSSB by the ORR) it outlines areas for further collaboration. This includes the ongoing development of the sector’s Tram Accident and Incident Reporting system. The memorandum gives a commitment to cooperate on cross-industry health and safety initiatives and specialist policy topics, as well as research in areas of shared concern.
Ian Prosser, HM Chief Inspector of Railways at the ORR, commented: “This Memorandum of Understanding is a significant milestone for both organisations who are committed to working together with one goal: a safer tramway and light rail for all. LRSSB has introduced improvements to the sector since it established itself as a safety and standards body in 2019. We look forward to exploring how both organisations can further coordinate our activities as we deliver our shared common objectives. This will include working together in developing technologies such as the online incident reporting system, which is already used sector-wide, with the aim of enhancing safety in the sector for the benefit of the workforce, public and passengers.”