During a train journey, engine drivers have two final objectives to consider: maintaining the safety of passengers and reaching destination according to the previously established timetable. For this to happen, aside from the precision of the train driver, manufacturers are responsible with upgrading their technologies stressing the work environment and the safety of train drivers. In Europe, engine drivers are travelling an average of 200,000 km every year, their safety being one of the most important things to consider.
It is important to consider the optimisation of the driver’s cab design to protect the engine driver in case of collision. To that end, consulting sessions with both the engine drivers and the rolling stock manufacturers have been organised.
Discussions with the engine drivers have stressed the importance of using seatbelts, airbags and knee supporting systems, as well as emergency exits. But from the point of view of design and engineering, the major focus fell on compartment walls, airbags, knee support, seatbelts, type of chairs and measures used for improving the safety exit system.
Driver safety measures have to be implemented while developing the rolling stock. Reaching the driver’s cab from the passengers’ compartments has to be secured by implementing safety measures (such as locking up de door). At the same time, the door has to open from the driver’s cab to the passenger’s compartments by a handle, thus permitting fast evacuation in case of emergency. The driver’s cab has to be equipped with a rear-view video survey system on each side, each room requiring the connection to a display located on the driver’s desk. All front parts are well-integrated in order to be safe and easy to change in case of necessary repairs.
To ensure safety inside the cab, from the technical point of view, measures consisting in reducing the loss of the survival space, delivering protection against secondary impact by using airbags and other protection equipments which are simultaneously activated.
One of the most important criteria regarding the safety of the engine driver is improving the emergency exit by providing an easy-to-access alternative.
As regards the new types of trains, it is necessary to elaborate a cost efficiency report on safety measures, although the protection level reaches the highest standards.
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