Commuters need to take greater care to be safer at train stations, Queensland Rail says.
The call was made as Qld Rail released footage of near misses, falls and customers rushing for the train as train doors close.
VIDEO: watch the footage here
Qld Rail General Manager of Security and Emergency Preparedness Drew Brock said the footage, released during the recent Rail Safety Week, is a stark reminder for all customers to be cautious near trains.
“Some of the footage is heart-stopping,” Brock says.
“In one clip a man walks too close to the edge of the platform and falls onto the track. It’s a terrifying reminder to always stay well behind the yellow line and if you’re travelling with children, keep them close.”
Brock says last financial year there were nearly 55 million trips (including special events) on the South East Queensland network, with 350 reported injuries from slips, trips and falls.
“We want it to hit home – rail safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he says.
“We want everyone to ‘travel with care’ which means allowing plenty of time for your journey and don’t run at closing doors: there’ll be another train coming soon.
“Many injuries are caused by customers taking their luggage, bikes or scooters on escalators – please use the lifts when travelling with these items,” Brock says.
“Remember to be aware of other customers around you because running into someone or losing a heavy item on the stairs or escalators could cause a serious injury to someone else.
“We’ve also seen some customers slipping in the gap between train and platform. While our newer and upgraded stations feature rubber fingers to prevent this, they’re not at every station, so the gap is something to be aware of when travelling on our network.”
RAIL SAFETY TIPS
Stay behind the yellow line until the train comes to a complete stop.
When travelling with small children, hold their hands if possible and mind the gap.
Use lifts or ramps when carrying large items.
Pay attention to your surroundings. Look up, not down at your phone, when walking through stations, on platforms, and when boarding or disembarking.
Plan your journey and arrive early – avoid rushing for your train. Source: Qld Rail
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