More trains pass signals set at danger as risk levels ‘improve’

There were 306 category A cases (the most serious category) of signals passed at danger on the railways in 2010 compared with 261 in 2009, the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) said.

Nine passengers died in incidents at stations last year – the highest number since 2004.

Three members of the rail workforce were killed last year compared with only one in 2009.

But the board said that 2010 was the third year running in which no passengers or rail workers were killed in train accidents.

At six, the total number of fatalities involving members of the public in 2010, and not involving trespass or suicide, was the lowest for more than 10 years.

Four of the fatalities occurred at level crossings, compared with 13 in 2009.

The number of potentially higher-risk train accidents last year was 26, the lowest number recorded and comparing with 42 in 2009.

Board research and risk director Anson Jack said: “The rail industry has seen a growth in passenger usage of around 25 per cent over the past five years. Against this backdrop key indicators related to train accident risk have shown improving trends.

“The industry is working to provide higher levels of service and increased capacity while reducing its costs and the call on the taxpayer for subsidy.

“Against that background the industry continues to seek practicable ways to reduce risk further.”

A spokesman for the Association of Train Operating Companies said: “Catching a train remains significantly safer than most other forms of transport and the UK’s railways are among the safest in Europe.

“But any death on the railway is a tragedy.

“Train companies and their partners will continue to put all their efforts into ensuring that stations and trains are as safe as they possibly can be for everyone who uses them.”

A Department for Transport spokesman said: “While rail remains a very safe mode of travel and significant progress has been made in improving safety, all incidents are regrettable and we can never afford to be complacent.”