As one of the oldest methods of transport for facilitating the movement of goods and people across vast distances, the railroad industry has long been a vital component of transportation infrastructure and continues to be so today.
According to a research paper from the IOPScience, the percentage of accidents and incidents caused due to human error is as high as 70% to 80%. Hence, management of ‘human error’ is the key to a sustainable rail transport system.
Human error can occur due to fatigue, distraction or error in judgement, but by leveraging the right technology challenges caused by human intervention can be addressed to mitigate risks and augment human capabilities.
The same paper from IOPScience found that 37% of accidents could be primarily attributed to human error related to signals passed at danger (SPAD). According to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), 241 SPADs occurred on the mainline from April 2021 to March 2022.
As technology continues to evolve, so does its crucial role in enhancing rail safety, reducing risks and ensuring the smooth operation of train networks. From advanced sensors to intelligent analytics systems, innovative solutions are revolutionising the way we approach rail safety.
In the UK, several rail safety technologies are in use to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the railway system. These innovative technologies include:
- Automatic Train Protection (ATP): ATP is a safety system that ensures compliance with speed limits and other operational parameters. It can automatically intervene to prevent train collisions or derailments by enforcing safe operating conditions.
- Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS): TPWS is designed to prevent accidents caused by trains passing signals at danger or approaching speed restrictions too fast. It applies emergency brakes if the train does not comply with the signal indications or speed restrictions.
- European Train Control System (ETCS): ETCS is a signalling and train control system that uses radio communication between the train and the trackside equipment. It provides continuous supervision of train speed, movement authority, and enforcement of speed restrictions.
- Automatic Warning System (AWS): AWS is a basic safety system that provides audible and visual warnings to train drivers about signals and speed restrictions. It alerts drivers if they pass a signal at danger or exceed a permitted speed.
- Track Circuit and Axle Counter Systems: Track circuits and axle counters are used for train detection and to ensure safe separation between trains. They provide information about train occupancy on specific sections of the track, helping to prevent collisions.
- CCTV Surveillance: Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems are widely deployed in stations and onboard trains to monitor and enhance security. They can assist in deterring criminal activities and provide valuable evidence in case of incidents.
In addition to these technologies, rail operators must also consider the vital role that maintenance plays in ensuring safe and efficient rail operations. Technology is transforming the maintenance landscape, enabling more proactive and precise approaches to maintenance tasks.
RailSense has developed state-of-the-art solutions that harness the power of artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics to optimise maintenance activities and enable rail operators to adopt a predictive maintenance approach that helps to prevent safety issues before they arise.
For instance, RailSense employs predictive maintenance algorithms that analyse vast amounts of sensor data to identify potential issues before they lead to failures. By continuously monitoring critical components, such as tracks, signals and rolling stock, these systems can detect anomalies and provide early warnings, allowing maintenance crews to intervene and prevent potential accidents. This proactive maintenance approach not only enhances safety but also improves the overall efficiency and reliability of rail networks.
Additionally, RailSense’s technologies also contribute to the enhancement of operational safety. Real-time monitoring systems, coupled with advanced analytics, enable the continuous assessment of train performance, track conditions, and operational parameters. By closely monitoring these factors, operators can quickly identify and address any safety concerns, reducing the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failures or track defects.
Furthermore, RailSense’s technologies provide valuable insights for decision-makers. Through comprehensive data analysis, these systems generate actionable intelligence that assists in optimising operations, identifying potential bottlenecks and enhancing overall rail network performance.
Technology is playing a transformative role in improving rail safety. The advancements are revolutionising the way rail networks are managed, reducing risks, enhancing maintenance efficiency and ensuring safe operations. By harnessing the power of advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, rail operators can proactively detect and address potential safety issues, preventing accidents and enhancing the overall reliability of rail transportation.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions that further enhance rail safety, making train travel an even safer mode of transportation for everyone.
RailSense products:
VoidSense®, a technology that senses voids and under-track movement. By continuously monitoring the stability of tracks, it helps identify potential track bed issues that could compromise rail safety.
With TempSense®, rail operators can track critical rail temperature (CRT) in real-time, allowing them to take necessary precautions in extreme weather conditions.
BuckleSense® is designed to detect possible hot-weather buckle occurrences, which can cause severe accidents if not addressed promptly.
GaugeSense® is a remote monitoring solution that measures changes in gauge and track geometry. By keeping a close eye on these parameters, rail operators can identify anomalies and take corrective measures to prevent accidents.
MultiSense® allows for multiple wireless sensor configurations over a wide area of rail, providing comprehensive coverage for enhanced safety monitoring.
TrackWater® is a groundbreaking solution that offers flooding alerts and monitors silt levels to ensure proper drainage. Flooding poses a significant threat to rail infrastructure, and timely alerts can help operators take necessary precautions and prevent damage.
By leveraging RailSense’s advanced technologies, rail operators can improve rail safety and enhance reliability, while reducing maintenance costs. Remote, real-time monitoring allows for early detection of potential issues, enabling proactive maintenance interventions. This approach minimises service disruptions, optimises asset longevity, and ultimately saves lives.
The importance of rail safety cannot be overstated. Protecting lives and valuable assets is a shared responsibility that requires a proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by rail networks. By investing in innovative solutions and leveraging cutting-edge technologies like those offered by RailSense, rail operators can create a safer, more reliable transportation system that benefits everyone.
Source: https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1757-899X/390/1/012024/pdf
Source: https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1757-899X/390/1/012024/pdf
Source: https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/media/2131/rail-safety-april-2021-to-march-2022.pdf