Evaluation of the Benefits of Yellow Lines on Station Platforms
Halcrow and RSSB
Background
CCD assisted Halcrow on a research project commissioned by RSSB in order to evaluate the usefulness and relevance of yellow lines on station platforms. CCD's role was to bring an understanding of passenger behaviour and how this was influenced by the lines.
Project
The project aimed to evaluate the usefulness and relevance of yellow lines on station platforms where trains may pass at speeds of no more than 160km/h. The yellow line was originally placed on the platforms because of the risk that was posed by doors being opened on slam door stock while trains were still moving. With slam door stock now eliminated there was a need to review the purpose of the line and how they remain useful.
CCD's role was to complete observations of passengers on platforms and to develop and administer questionnaires to passengers, station staff, drivers and other stakeholders. Halcrow were responsible for investigating issues such as environmental impacts and cost benefit analysis.
Implementation
Initially passenger observations were completed on platforms, at selected stations, to gain a greater understanding of behaviour with respect to the yellow line. Following on from this a standard questionnaire was developed by CCD, approved by RSSB, and administered at stations and train depots. The aim of the questionnaires was to gain an understanding of passengers, station staff and drivers opinions in relation to the yellow line and its purpose. A cross section of passengers were chosen to try and gain an accurate representation of the station users.
Outcomes
The CCD findings showed that most passengers perceived there to be some level of risk whilst waiting for a train on a platform, with those risks mainly being related to being pushed or dragged under a passing train. However, observations showed that yellow lines were often ignored and appeared to have little influence on where people stood on the platform, despite the apparent risk perception.
RSSB commented that, overall, the project would have a positive impact on the industry in the future