ORR, Network Rail Safety: 2024-2025 Incidents & Initiatives

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Introduction

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has reported 29 high-potential train accident incidents between 2024 and 2025. The ORR, along with Network Rail, is implementing evidence-based safety tools and training to improve safety within the railway industry.

Safety Regulations and Incidents

The ORR, in collaboration with the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) and Network Rail, has acknowledged the safety progress made by the industry. Data from the ORR revealed 29 high-potential train accident incidents between 2024 and 2025. Additionally, track workers experience 16 near-miss incidents annually. In response to these incidents, the ORR introduced a series of regulations in March 2025, emphasizing an evidence-based approach to safety decisions.

Network Rail’s Initiatives

Following the ORR’s recommendations, Network Rail has launched a new Cost Benefit Analysis tool. Alongside this tool, Network Rail has also introduced internal guidance, inspector training on risk assessment, and training materials on Taking Safe Decisions. The ORR has been working with funders to support health and safety priorities and operator business planning. Regular senior-level forums are being held with Network Rail to discuss investment planning, emerging safety concerns, and future planning cycles.

Industry Contributions

Blake Richmond, COO of Resonate Group, stated that safety is fundamental to an efficient and reliable railway, and that every decision must prioritize the safety of passengers and operators. Resonate Group’s Initiate product, launched this year, provides tools to replace traditional practices. These tools aim to reduce the number of trackside workers, thereby mitigating risks. The technology enhances network visibility, enabling operators to address safety concerns effectively and deploy resources strategically.

Monitoring and Future Plans

The ORR will continue to monitor the new training, tools, and guidance until a final review is conducted by March 2026. The regulator will assess how this approach can be applied beyond the mainline railway, extending to heritage and metro operations. Richard Hines, HM chief inspector of railways and ORR’s director of railway safety, acknowledged the significant work undertaken by RSSB and Network Rail. Martin Frobisher, Network Rail’s safety and engineering director, stated that the work will help deliver affordable safety improvements and that positive results are already being seen.

Conclusion

The ORR and Network Rail are implementing new safety tools and training, following recommendations made in March 2025. Network Rail has introduced a Cost Benefit Analysis tool and other initiatives. The ORR will continue to monitor these efforts until a final review in March 2026.

Company Summary

Network Rail: The owner and infrastructure manager of most of the railway network in Great Britain.

Office of Rail and Road (ORR): The independent safety and economic regulator for the railways in Great Britain.

Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB): An organization that develops and promotes safety standards and best practices for the rail industry.

Resonate Group: A company contributing to safety management within the rail industry.

Technology

Cost Benefit Analysis: A tool launched by Network Rail.

Initiate: A product launched by Resonate Group.

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