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28 February 2005 - International Rail
Safety Day Planned for March
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The 6th International Rail Safety Day is planned for Monday 7
March 2005, when rail workers in countries around the world will participate in
highlighting to the travelling public, their safety first message.
ASLEF are calling on the public to participate by signing it's
Rail Safety Charter for safer travel, safer working and a safer world, in
a bid to make improvements in the following areas:
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An end to "death trap" level crossings
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A legal limit on train drivers' working hours
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The development of safety devices in drivers' cabs
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A 21st century signal system
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A safer travelling environment.
Mr. Mac Urata, Secretary of the International Transport Workers
Federation's (ITF's) Railways Section commented:
"Railway unions have faced significant challenges to safety
standards and public services as many economies withdraw from rail services and
transfer development capital into roads. The separation of track and
train operations, plus an increase in the use of contractors for maintenance,
has increased the possibility of accidents and rail unions have been required to
put more effort into protecting their members and the travelling public."
The World Rail Safety Day began in 2000 and was an initiative of
the ITF. Since then, workers in 65 worldwide countries have taken
part in the campaign for safe railways with a global future.
Further details and campaign materials for the event can be
accessed by clicking the following:
International Railway Workers' Action Day
ASLEF's Charter for rail safety can be accessed by clicking the
following:
ASLEF's Charter for Rail Safety
Article by Alexandra Johnston
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