Effective communication of safety notices is essential for the safe operation of the rail network. Recent events on the South Wales Mainline highlight how the industry continues to struggle with sharing and acknowledging safety updates.
A recent RAIB safety digest underscores serious risks tied to manual communication processes, emphasising the urgent need for more reliable and traceable systems.
In January 2025, Network Rail’s Wales and Borders route control imposed a 50mph restriction on the South Wales Mainline. The team imposed restrictions between Swansea and Neath to reduce the risk of trains overturning. They also applied restrictions between Newport and Bishton to manage the risk from fallen trees. Despite this clear directive, eight trains exceeded the speed limit.
The investigation revealed a consistent issue: the overspeeding occurred because some signallers and train drivers were either unaware of, or had forgotten about, the restriction. In one case, a driver was incorrectly informed that the speed limit was not in force.
These incidents happen more often than they should. They expose a wider systemic challenge – our continued reliance on outdated, manual methods to manage and communicate safety critical information. When teams miss, forget, or misinterpret important operational updates, the consequences become real and potentially dangerous.
The RAIB report urges rail operators to implement robust, traceable processes and use technology to ensure safety critical messages reach drivers and operational staff effectively. This goes beyond simply sharing information – it requires better delivery, assurance and accountability.
Technology can help bridge the gap
Modern digital solutions can make a tangible difference. Part of the RailSmart people and safety suite, SafeTrack enables rail operators to issue operational notices from a centralised platform directly to digital boards across depots. These updates are trackable, timestamped and come with a full audit trail – ensuring they are seen, acknowledged and easily reviewed.
We’re working closely with safety bodies and operators to raise the bar across the industry. We aim to redefine how the rail sector manages and communicates safety critical information – digitally, in real time, and with full accountability.
This marks the start of a more efficient, safer railway. By replacing slow, manual processes with modern, digital communication, we’re helping to improve safety in rail and build greater confidence across the network.
