Our annual report on health and safety for 2022 to 2023 highlights the need for rail industry to meet climate challenge and for it to focus on supporting workers.
Network Rail must ensure it delivers the changes needed to address the risks of climate change and along with the rest of the industry, continue to support its workers.
Progress has been made on improving the management of earthworks and drainage, such as with the adoption of better weather forecasting, however Network Rail needs to do more to drive change across its regions. Network Rail needs to improve its management of vegetation on buildings and structures.
Concern was expressed about the management of fatigue of workers; ORR is encouraged by Network Rail’s recognition that its own fatigue controls required improvement.
The report highlights the industry’s responsibilities for looking after its workforce which will in turn support the drive for a safer railway.