ACRI researcher Anjum Naweed will  be presenting “Tackling Railway Trespass and Suicide: Practical and Operational Challenges for Australia and New Zealand” a the Railway Technical Society of Australia at Engineers Australia, Adelaide on 4 July.

The implications of fatalities arising from trespass and suicide on railways are apparent.

Beyond the loss of life, these incidents dramatically impact the health and wellbeing of all those affected, causing trauma and work- related stress to rail and recovery staff alike, as well as “vicarious” trauma to others.

In Australasia these experiences are well-documented, and their impacts are a known risk that requires effective management. This research, funded by the Australasian Centre for Rail Innovation (ACRI), undertook a review of international literature, followed by an exploration of the applicability of preventative practices in Australia and New Zealand in six organisations.

This presentation will provide the findings from the review and outline key technical and non-technical barriers for adoption, with a focus on findings relevant to the South Australian rail context.