Support to Level Crossings Improvements - A summary of current Ergonomics work conducted on projects associated with Network Rail Level Crossings

Network Rail is responsible for the maintenance and management of over 6300 different level crossings across Britain. We are committed to reducing the risk at level crossings where reasonably practicable. Network Rail... [ view full abstract ]

Network Rail is responsible for the maintenance and management of over 6300 different level crossings across Britain. We are committed to reducing the risk at level crossings where reasonably practicable. Network Rail continues to review processes and develop new products to maintain and improve safety at the level crossings.
The aim of this paper is to discuss the ergonomics issues associated with the various level crossing projects. This will include a summary of the projects, significant ergonomic topics and issues that have arisen and any major themes drawn from the outcome of the projects to date.
Projects discussed in this paper include:
Beech Hill Recommendations - Network Rail resolution to the RAIB (Rail Accident Investigation Branch) recommendations from the Beech Hill level crossing accident. This covers the lighting levels of the wig-wags and the replacement to LED lighting, and devising a method of assessing the risk of a bright background and glare preventing wig-wags from being seen.
Audible Warning Device for Crossings - This is a product that introduces a secondary automated train whistle to reinforce the whistle board. It involves an understanding of user perception and behaviour to a new product within the level crossing system.
Automatic Half Barrier (AHB) awareness – This project is to develop a systems approach on raising awareness to users of AHB crossings. It involves developing a cost vs impact framework of the AHB level crossing system that the developed set of awareness measures or solutions can be proved against. Some key aspects are the information available to understand the different types of user and their behaviour at AHB crossings.