Rail Public Safety

Rail Safety

From Metro Vancouver’s SkyTrain to other train services, trains play an important role in the lives of British Columbians. When used responsibly, rail systems provide some of the most economical and sustainable ways to move people and goods around the province. However, unsafe behaviour when interacting with the train can lead to serious risks, injuries, or even death. 

Practicing Safe Behaviour for Passenger Trains

It’s not unusual to see someone attempting to hold a train by placing a hand, foot, or bag in the way of the train doors to keep them from closing. Similarly, many people edge closer to the doors of the train as it approaches. On the vehicle side, sometimes cars fail to stop behind painted lines on the road at grade level crossings while waiting for traffic lights. However, these seemingly innocuous behaviours can have dangerous consequences.

When Do Train Incidents Happen?

Most unintentional incidents on passenger trains happen when passengers:

• Attempt to board a departing train
• Trip or fall into the train or tracks
• Have their belongings or a body part entrapped by the train
• Reach into the guideway to retrieve dropped items
• Unintentionally enter the guideway or walk into the train itself
• Trespass into the guideway

To stay safe when interacting with trains, it is very important to exercise caution when waiting or attempting to board. Passengers should be aware of their surroundings, stay behind the yellow lines, and avoid leaning towards the tracks for any reason.

Safety at Railway Crossings

Trains, especially freight trains, are large and move quickly. They cannot stop quickly if they encounter something or someone on the tracks, and unsafe behaviour near tracks or trains can cause serious injury. In Canada alone, each year more than 100 people are killed or injured in crossing or trespassing incidents. 

Operation Lifesaver and the Canada Safety Council recommend a STOP, LOOK, and LISTEN awareness model to remind the public to put safety first when it comes to crossings. 

When you’re near a crossing: 

• Always be prepared to STOP and do not attempt to cross unless you are certain there are no trains approaching.
• LOOK for symbols that might indicate a crossing — some are also equipped with bells, lights, arms, and gates. 
• If you are at a crossing that is controlled by traffic lights in a vehicle, do not attempt to cross if the traffic lights may change and potentially leave you stranded on the railway tracks.
• When driving a vehicle, if there is a line up to go over the crossing, never wait on the tracks, as you could become trapped by vehicles ahead and behind you if a train approaches.
• If you are crossing the tracks in a vehicle and your vehicle malfunctions, you can try to restart it provided there is no train approaching. However, if a train is nearing, exit your vehicle and move away from the tracks as soon as possible. 
• Keep an ear out for warning sounds like bells and whistles. LISTEN for warnings that a train may be approaching — modern trains are faster and quieter than you may think.
• Whether you are on foot or in a vehicle, do not use train tracks as a shortcut or assume you can “beat” the train.

Technical Safety BC works with organizations across British Columbia to promote rail safety. Review our partners’ resources for additional tips, information, and guidance.  

TransLink Safety Tips

Track Safety Basics from Operation LifeSaver