“Our thoughts remain with those who lost their lives or were
injured in the tragedy at Sandilands, and we continue to do all
we can to support everyone affected.
“We welcome this report from the Rail Accident Investigation
Branch and will continue to work alongside them, the Office of
Rail and Road and First Group, who operate the tram network, to
ensure all of the recommendations outlined are met. We will also
be publishing our own investigation report in the new year.
“Since the incident we have introduced a wide range of additional
safety measures to make sure such a tragedy can never happen
again. These include new signage and warning systems for drivers,
additional speed restrictions, enhanced speed monitoring and an
upgrade of the CCTV recording system.
“An in-cab driver protection device has
been trialled and is now fitted to every tram, meaning
that any sign of driver distraction or fatigue results in the
driver being alerted immediately. Work to install a system to
automatically reduce tram speeds if required is also underway.
“We have enhanced the customer complaints process so that all
reports are now managed by one dedicated TfL team and
any that relate to safety areprioritised for immediate
investigation. And the TfL Sarah Hope line remains available to
all those affected and continues to provide help with counselling
and other support to anyone who needs it.
“We also continue to work with the wider tram industry to ensure
that lessons are learned from this incident and that we introduce
any further measures that could improve the safety of trams
across the UK.”
Ends
Additional information:
- · So far
TfL has completed a number of safety improvements to the tram
network, including:
- Additional speed
restrictions and associated signage installed near Sandilands and
at three other locations on the tram network.
- A permanent speed
reduction implemented across the London tram network, meaning the
maximum speed trams can travel is now 70kpm (previously 80kph).
- The installation of
enhanced chevron signs at the four sites with significant bends
to provide an additional visual cue for drivers. The number of
speed signs has been increased and additional lineside digital
signage will provide added speed warnings to drivers.
- An in-cab driver
protection device has been trialled and is now fitted
to all trams to protect against fatigue and distraction.
- Replacing and
upgrading the CCTV recording system.
- Working with safety
experts to test various options to improve the containment
provided by tram windows and doors.
- Exploring options to
improve and upgrade tram emergency lighting so it cannot be
unintentionally disconnected.
- Work on developing an
in-cab driver alert system for monitoring and managing tram speed
is underway.
- Reviewing procedures
for the emergency evacuation from trams so that the speed of
evacuation is improved.
- Reviewing and revising
risk assessments, alongside First Group, to ensure all scenarios
are adequately planned for.
- · The
Sarah Hope Line, run by specially trained TfL staff, provides
practical and financial help and can make referrals for
counselling andspecialised support to those who need it. The
contact details for the Sarah Hope Line are 0343 222 5678,
or SHL@tfl.gov.uk.
- · To
date, more than £1.2 million has been paid for counselling,
rehabilitation, compensation and other activities to support
those affected. Specialists are proactively staying in contact
with all those affected to provide continued support and offering
any further help needed.
- · TfL
and its insurers are dealing with all formal claims as quickly as
possible, including making settlements, interim payments and
providing access to counselling and other medical support. Anyone
who feels that they need additional support are advised to get in
contact via the Sarah Hope Line so that help can be given.
- · Tram
Operations Limited (TOL), a subsidiary of First Group, operate
London’s tram network on behalf of TfL.
