Nottingham Express Transit (NET) have become the latest tramway in the UK to join the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB) safety campaign: “Two Lines = Stop”. The campaign is aimed at pedestrians and reminds them of the dangers to be found around trams and how important it is to concentrate when trying to cross the lines.
Already adopted by tramways in Blackpool, Edinburgh, Sheffield and the West Midlands, the campaign includes brightly coloured yellow signage using the slogan “Two Lines = Stop” along with system specific branding. It is also backed up by a series of social media posts featured on NET’s own social channels which aims to help further raise awareness of the campaign.
The campaign was introduced following recent research that found pedestrian inattention to be the most common cause of tram collisions. The signage used is designed to stand out and grab attention, even in familiar environments.
Carl Williams, LRSSB Chief Executive, said: “Our extensive research, carried out on tramways across the country, revealed that making pedestrians more aware of their surroundings in areas where trams are running, is key to further reducing the risk of accidents.
“Initial feedback from participating networks shows the campaign is already having a positive impact, and we’re delighted that NET has become the latest network to adopt our ‘Two Lines = STOP’ message.
“We also welcome NET’s continued commitment to helping the LRSSB in our mission to ensure light rail remains one of the safest modes of public transport.”
The launch in Nottingham comes as the city prepares to welcome thousands to its annual pop-up beach at Old Market Square. With this being right by the tramway it is one of busiest periods of the year as pedestrians mingle around the trams.
Connor Hardy, Quality, Health, Safety and Environment Manager for NET, added: “Each summer, thousands descend upon Nottingham city centre to attend the beach at the Old Market Square. It’s such an exciting time for the city, but for those who either are not familiar with Nottingham or who get swept up in the summer festivities, a one second lapse in attention could have very real consequences during a time that should be spent making lots of happy memories.
“Texting, talking on the phone or simply not looking before crossing the road could cause a very serious or fatal accident and we want to ensure everyone stays safe, especially during the coming summer festivities. By installing eye-catching signage in key locations across the city, we hope it serves as a visual prompt for pedestrians to think twice when crossing the road, and to always stay alert when walking near the trams.
“We’re always committed to ensuring the safety of all our passengers, staff and the wider public, and joining the LRSSB’s national campaign is an extension of that commitment, allowing us to take our efforts one step further and adding additional measures ahead of one of the city’s busiest periods of the year.”
Carly Swift (LRSSB Marketing and Communications Manager), Connor Hardy (NET Quality, Health, Safety and Environmental Manager) and Trevor Stocker (NET Head of Operations) in Old Market Square along with one of the new safety signs. (Photograph courtesy of LRSSB)