Railway Safety

When OL was established in 1981, its mandate was to promote crossing safety. In 1989, the anti-trespassing component was added. The program has contributed to an impressive decline in casualties at crossings. Crossing collisions dropped from 826 in 1980 to 237 in 2004. Deaths fell from 83 in 1980, to 25 in 2004. 

In contrast, trespassing remains a stubborn problem. In 2004, there were 99 trespassing incidents, 67 deaths and 34 serious injuries. Fatalities were actually higher in 2004 than in 1994, when there were 57 trespasser deaths. Sadly, many of these casualties were intentional, a reflection of Canada’s serious suicide problem. 

National Railway Safety Public Awareness Week (April 25 to May 1, 2005) provided an opportunity to spread the rail safety message. Safety blitzes and events (including a mock crash) took place across the country. Nova Scotia announced a new program to improve visibility at highway/ short rail crossings. A reflective material will be applied to the front and back of signposts at 54 crossings not already protected by flashing lights and bells.

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Railway Quiz