Safety in stations and on and around tracks

Improving station infrastructure

In order to ensure safety in train stations or at train stops, Infrabel is gradually raising the height of platforms. This dissuades users from crossing the tracks to reach a different platform. We are also setting up sign systems on platforms, such as safety lines or studded paving, to warn users of certain dangers.

Safety advice for people on platforms

• Always use a safe passage to reach another platform; either a footbridge, an underground passageway or a level crossing. Your life is well worth a short detour!
• Do not stand too close to the edge of the platform. Be careful when you hear an approaching train being announced. Trains sometimes pass through stations at high speed without stopping.
• Comply with the rules: they are there for your own safety!

Safety on platforms

Did you know that:

• owing to its weight and speed a train may need as much as one kilometre to come to a complete stop. 
• unlike a car, a train is unable to change its course. 
• trains are becoming increasingly fast and make less and less noise.  Sometimes less than 5 seconds is all that is needed for a train that is 200 m away from you to reach you. You will only hear the train once it is upon you. 
• one train may hide another train. Even once a train has passed, it is still dangerous because another one may be just behind it.

With a view to informing people both young and old about safety in stations and on and around tracks, Infrabel has developed several information initiatives. You can see some examples of these below:

If you would like any further information, or if want to work with us to raise awareness of safety on and around tracks, please contact our services (railsecurity@infrabel.be).