Staff Assaults
Issued to: Network Rail line managers, safety professionals and accredited contractors
Ref: NRB24-08
Date of issue: 18/06/2024
Location: National
Contact: Sarah Winnington – Senior Security Specialist
Overview
Assaults against Network Rail staff by members of the public have steadily increased over recent years. A small number of recent incidents have involved the use of bladed weapons and needles.
In April, a member of Network Rail staff investigated a report concerning the lineside and was subsequently attacked by a member of the public.
Whilst this type of incident is rare, there have been a few similar incidents involving station staff and office staff travelling to and from places of work. In October 2023, a member of station staff was stabbed by an individual who was rough sleeping in a waiting room.
Assaults on staff can have a significant long-term impact on the physical and mental health and wellbeing of colleagues. This safety bulletin acts as a reminder and provides mitigations to consider.
SPACE’ –
SPACE - Maintain a safe distance.
POSITION -Try not to block or be blocked in.
AWARENESS - Assess the situation and consider the options.
COMMUNICATION – Use open body language, eye contact and active listening.
EXIT – Be prepared to leave if you feel unsafe.