1999-05-25 Train operators in active discussion over millennium eve services (ATOC)

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date 18 November 1999
source ATOC
type Press release

Commenting on today's monthly statistics on Signals Passed at Danger (SPADs) published by Her Majesty's Railway Inspectorate (HMRI), the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) reiterated that the entire railway industry is making every possible effort to improve safety.

Through the National Safety Task Force (NSTF), which will meet for the second time on 24 November, the industry is implementing the plan agreed at the National Safety Summit with the Deputy Prime Minister on 25 October (notes to editors).

ATOC Director General, George Muir, said: "The number of SPADs was seven lower in October this year than October last year. Over the whole of last year, the number was 643, a substantial reduction from the 944 in 1991/92. We are taking action, as agreed at the National Safety Summit to reduce these incidents further.

"However, SPADs can only be eliminated through technology. The next big step forward will be achieved through the introduction across the network of the train protection and warning system, which will be completed by December 2003. The industry will then implement further technology, on the basis of the Sir David Davies' inquiry, in order to complete the elimination of SPADs.

"The railways remain a fundamentally safe form of travel and we are determined to make them even safer.

"We have professional conscientious drivers and we will give them every support available to do their difficult job."

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For further information: ATOC Press Office 0171 904 3010

Railhub Archive ::: 1999-11-18 ATO-001