Visitors to Manchester Metrolink may recently have noticed new safety notices around the tramway as the network becomes the third in the UK to adopt the LRSSB led nationwide safety campaign already seen in Blackpool and Edinburgh.
Using the message “Two Lines = Stop”, the campaign features eye-catching signage and striking social media content. Its been designed in response to research that found pedestrian inattention to be the most common cause of collisions.
Carly Swift, Marketing and Digital Media Manager at LRSSB, said: “We know from our own observational studies that pedestrians are often distracted by their mobile phones, or are simply oblivious to their surroundings.
“Failing to show the same care they would when crossing a busy road, many people often ignore signage they see every day, so it’s vital we find ways to catch the attention of unwary pedestrians.
“Working with operators and safety experts, we’ve developed a bold campaign that can be tailored to the requirements of individual networks, and we are delighted that Metrolink is now on board.”
Ian Davies, TfGM’s Interim Network Director for Metrolink, added: “The safety of our customers and staff is our number one priority, and we do everything we can to make sure trams, crossing points and stops are safe for everyone.
“However, trams, crossings and stops are only as safe as the way they are used by passengers. As we get closer to the busy festive season our town and city centres will be busier with lots of interesting things to look at and activities to enjoy, but it’s really important that everyone stays aware of what is going on around them.
“We’d urge everyone travelling with us take heed of these very important messages and new signage: stop, look out for trams and stay safe.”
One of the safety signs on Metrolink.
Another version of the sign. They have been applied at busy locations across the network. (Both Photographs by Michael Morton, 6th November 2024)