Iarnród Éireann launches safety campaign as number of incidents on platforms rise

Iarnród Éireann has launched a campaign urging customers to ensure their own safety and that of others in railway stations.

In a a statement, a spokesperson for the firm said that “with passenger numbers more than doubling in 2022 and continuing to grow in 2023, slips, trips and falls are increasing, as are instances of customers cycling, scooting or skateboarding on platforms.

In 2022, 145 slips and falls were recorded at stations while 52 have been recorded to the end of March this year so far.

Last year, there were 66 incidents of people cycling and skateboarding on platforms and 24 thus far in 2023.

New safety videos address these issues, as well as the issue of being too close to the platform edge at stations.

A company spokesperson said: “Safety is our number one priority at Iarnród Éireann for customers and employees alike.

“It’s our responsibility to ensure we provide a safe travelling environment. However, we do also need our customers to help us.

“Slips, trips and falls thankfully tend to result in minor injuries at worst.

“However, there can be more serious incidents, and while accidents can happen, running or rushing through the station will always increase risk.

“We’d urge customers to allow time to reach the platform for their train, and to be careful of their own safety and that of others when moving through the station.

“The issue of cycling, skateboarding, or scooting on platforms – while relatively low – is also increasing and shows complete disregard for other customers.

“We will issue fines for this but urge those using bikes or similar to travel to and from the station to be mindful of others.

“The Stay Alert Stay Safe campaign shows common safety scenarios and how to best navigate them to make sure you have the best journey possible with Iarnród Éireann.”

“The new videos will feature on the company’s social media channels Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube over the coming months.”