Safety campaign launched at Reading station after 92 accidents in a year

The station has been refurbished in recent years.

Network Rail has launched a new safety campaign at Reading station, after 92 accidents were reported at the site in a year.

The figures, which start from August 2020, show that 58 of these accidents involved escalators.

Passengers will now see a range of signage and posters at the station, which will illustrate the safety risks in the stations.

The station, which has services from GWR, SWR, CrossCountry and TFL is expected to be busier now the summer holidays have ended - which coincides with the launch of the campaign.

Hundreds of services pass through or stop at the station each day.

It's hoped the campaign will reach those who normally would be "less inclined" to engage with safety messaging.

Teams at the station have provided tips for passengers to ensure they stay safe whilst in the station.

They are:

  • Use lifts or step-free routes where available if you're carrying luggage

  • Don't rush when moving up or down stairs or escalators. Hold the handrail and concentrate on your footing to avoid stumbling or losing your balance.

  • Wear sensible footwear.

  • Avoid running at stations, especially in wet weather. Walk, don't run.

  • Stay behind the marked yellow/white platform edge lines whilst waiting on the platforms.

  • Make sure you apply the brakes to prams and strollers, and always position parallel to the tracks.

  • Mind the gap between the train and the platform. Unfortunately, we can't reduce the gaps between trains and platforms. Take extra care.

  • If you are feeling unwell, let a member of station staff know.

  • Look out for signs and posters that will help you get around the station easily and safely.

A TfL rail service arrives at Reading station.

Andy Phillips, Network Rail station manager, Reading Station and Bristol Temple Meads Station, said:

"Keeping everyone safe - from our workforce to our passengers - is at the heart of everything we do and we're delighted to be launching this important safety campaign in Bristol and Reading.

"Although our stations already have numerous safety information displayed, we wanted to connect with those passengers who perhaps take less consideration about their own safety when in our stations as these passengers are arguably those who are most likely to experience a slip, trip or fall.

"The posters, banners and graphics we have installed at Bristol Temple Meads and Reading stations we hope will grab people's attention and convey out latest safety messaging in a fun and engaging way."