Union action wins safety improvements

A union go slow on an unsafe rail line has forced management to implement safety measures.

Members of ASLEF train drivers’ union complained about poor visibility on the approach to a crossing in West Sussex. After Network Rail initially ignored the request, the union issued advice to drivers to reduce speed to 30mph.

Roy Luxford, ASLEF Southern Company Council secretary said as a result Network Rail felled five trees and carried out embankment clearance. He said: “The problem has been resolved after viewing the site with the local health and safety representative. We are satisfied that there is no longer a safety hazard.”