Guiding the Traveller: UIC 771-3 Passenger Information Standards

Definition and Scope

UIC Leaflet 771-3 provides the guidelines for Passenger Information Systems (PIS), covering both visual displays and audible announcements within railway stations and on-board trains. In an era of high-speed travel and complex intermodal connections, the primary goal of this standard is to ensure that passengers receive timely, accurate, and comprehensible information regarding their journey.

The leaflet addresses the needs of all travelers, including those with disabilities, by aligning closely with TSI PRM (Technical Specifications for Interoperability – Persons with Reduced Mobility). It mandates that information must be consistent across different touchpoints (platforms, concourses, and train interiors) to reduce passenger anxiety and improve traffic flow.

Key Technical Requirements

UIC 771-3 breaks down the requirements into visual and auditory categories to ensure redundancy—essential for inclusive design.

1. Visual Information (Displays & Signage)

Visual systems must be legible under varying lighting conditions. Key factors include:

• Contrast and Brightness: Displays must automatically adjust brightness based on ambient light to prevent glare or washout (e.g., legible in direct sunlight).
• Font and Size: Text height is dictated by the viewing distance. For example, a main concourse board requires significantly larger characters than a platform indicator. Sans-serif fonts are preferred for readability.
• Color Coding: The use of standard colors (e.g., Red for delays/cancellations, Green/Yellow for on-time) to convey status instantly.

2. Audible Information (PA Systems)

Public Address (PA) systems are regulated to ensure messages are heard clearly above the noise of arriving trains.

• Speech Intelligibility: The system performance is often measured using the STI (Speech Transmission Index), where a minimum value (typically >0.5) is required to ensure announcements are understandable.
• Zoning: Intelligent zoning prevents noise pollution; announcements for Platform 1 should not be blaring loudly on Platform 10 unless it is a general security alert.

Comparison: Display Technologies

Rail operators choose between different display technologies based on the guidelines of UIC 771-3 regarding visibility and maintenance.

Real-Time Integration

Modern compliance with UIC 771-3 requires integration with the control center’s Traffic Management System (TMS). “Static” timetables are no longer sufficient; the system must display real-time deviations, estimated times of arrival (ETA), and alternative route suggestions dynamically.