The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) is enhancing its Red Aspect Approaches to Signals (RAATS) tool to further reduce the risk of SPADs (Signals Passed At Danger) on the UK rail network.
Launched in 2019, RAATS uses signal status and train movement data from Network Rail to identify how often and where trains approach red signals. SPADs are a key factor in train accidents, and while the Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS) has significantly mitigated the risks associated with them, SPADs can still cause delays, financial losses, and serious incidents like collisions and derailments.
The upgraded RAATS toolkit will offer improved functionality, linking its outputs with industry performance data and expanding its geographical coverage to encompass up to 70% of the network. This broader analysis will enable users to examine red signal approaches for specific train journeys and understand them within the context of relevant performance data.
This enhanced capability will allow train operators and Network Rail to use this information when creating or modifying timetables, reducing the likelihood of drivers approaching red signals.
Chris Knowles, RSSB’s Director of System Safety and Health, said: ‘Trains passing red signals without authorisation can lead to serious incidents, such as collisions or derailments, and delay to passengers and freight. Our enhanced RAATs tool will help Network Rail and train operators analyse specific train service and performance data and modify timetables to reduce the number of trains being scheduled to approach red signals. The tool will make a significant contribution to reducing SPAD risk, leading to improved safety and higher railway performance.’
The new RAATS toolkit is scheduled for release to the rail industry in Spring 2025.
