The Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB) were recently asked to provide a number of briefings to the new UK government in which they outlined their vital role in delivering even safer tram transport across the country. They have also provided an update to tram operators in the country which outline potential future projects focusing on obstacle avoidance, pedestrian crossings and AI machine learning for risk modelling.
They were asked to prepare several papers for DfT officials that set out their aims, objectives and successes to date. The hope is that these papers will help to secure new funding to continue their excellent work in improving safety.
Carl Williams, LRSSB Chief Executive, said: “As well as helping the new administration to understand the work and capabilities of the LRSSB, we hope these briefings will also help us to tap into larger sums of innovation funding. We have also met with the new Chief Inspector of Railways, Richard Hines, who is already a big supporter of the LRSSB and light rail in general, as we look to further strengthen links with both the government and regulators.”
In a wide ranging update given by the LRSSB at the UKTram Operators Group meeting (held shortly before the Light Rail Summit in Birmingham) there was also information on projects currently being delivered including an ongoing pedestrian safety campaign and plans for a new Learning Management System that has received a 100% backing from networks.
Future projects now being looked into include the production of guidance on seat weight limits and the integration of RIDDOR and RAIB reporting within the LRSSB’s upgraded Tram Accident and Incident Reporting System (TAIR).
I wonder if I am alone in fearing that any new rapid transit proposals will shortly be subjected to the Alastair Darling approach by this new government?