The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is joining over 80 organisations in promoting the important messages of Rail Safety Week 2020: Rail safety - I am RailSAFE, across 10-16 August.
This year, Rail Safety Week is calling on the community to be 'RailSAFE' when interacting with the rail network. The ATSB's messaging over the week emphasises that potential dangers exist around a railway, including light rail.
The ATSB's will promote the four key steps needed to be 'RailSafe' - stay off the tracks, avoid distractions, follow instructions, and encourage others to be SAFE.
ATSB Chief Commissioner Greg Hood said Rail Safety Week is an important opportunity to bring the issue of rail safety to the attention of all Australian road users and rail passengers.
"As part of the ATSB's efforts to promote Rail Safety Week, we will be highlighting the safety messages of some of our investigations undertaken that tie directly to this year's theme," Mr Hood said.
Please be patient and adhere to the signals and warnings signs at all level and pedestrian crossings
"Rail safety is everyone's responsibility, year-round. Please keep this in mind, not just for this week, but throughout the year."
With work patterns disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ATSB reminds all road users and pedestrians to be extra vigilant when using level crossings that they may not have used as frequently in recent months.
"Even if you frequently use a level or pedestrian crossing, take the time to have an extra look and be alert," Mr Hood said.
"Please be patient and adhere to the signals and warnings signs."
The ATSB is the nation's independent 'no-blame' rail safety investigator. Our investigations aim to determine what and why an accident happened, identify ongoing safety risks, and to influence safety actions to address those safety issues.
