Slips and trips cause passenger injuries on the network
Slips and trips cause passenger injuries on the network
More train travellers are being hurt in accidents on platforms and on board, prompting a safety warning as many people take to public transport for major events across Melbourne this spring.
An average of 80 passengers have been injured each month for the first half of this year – the result of a range of slips, trips and falls.
Metro Trains is reminding passengers to be safe around railway stations and on-board busy trains, especially during Melbourne’s unpredictable weather this spring.
Metro Trains chief executive Raymond O’Flaherty said that as the city’s events season ramps, it was timely to remind passengers to be careful.
“Hold onto handrails, don’t run for a train and please use lifts if you need them,” he said.
The number of injuries and incidents across the Metro network has risen again this year. Last year 831 incidents were reported, an increase from 655 in 2022.
In the first six months of 2024, 490 incidents have been reported.
Of the incidents involving escalators, 45 per cent of passengers needed first-aid treatment while one in five needed help from emergency services.
Increased patronage and busier platforms created a bigger risk on escalators, stairs and platforms, Mr O’Flaherty said.