New videos urge passengers to ‘be smart’ around trams

A series of animated videos look set to provide a boost for light rail safety following their online premiers this week.

Using eye-catching graphics, they provide top tips for passengers when using a tramway or similar transit system, as well as advice for pedestrians when crossing the tracks.

Commissioned by the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, the ‘be SMART around Trams’ videos can be used by network operators to complement their own safety campaigns and are ideal for posting on social media channels and on tram-stop information displays.

A full-length version, that includes all the videos in sequence, can also be used for presentations in schools and at community events.

Carl Williams, LRSSB Chief Executive, explained: “Trams are already one of the safest forms of public transport, but we can never be complacent, and these videos have been produced in response to feedback from sector safety experts concerned about the actions of a small minority of people who sometimes put themselves and others at risk.

“In most cases these actions are unintentional, including crossing the tracks while wearing headphones or standing too close to the edge of the platform, and by raising awareness of these common behaviours we hope to further reduce the risk of more serious incidents which are, fortunately, extremely rare.”

The videos also highlight the importance of making sure bags and other loose items are clear of tram doors as they close and the need to secure pushchairs and wheelchairs in designated areas on board trams.

“In commissioning these LRSSB-branded videos we are providing another valuable resource for our members as we continue to work in partnership to share best practice and provide operators with the support they need to further enhance light rail safety.”

Produced on behalf of the LRSSB by Midlands-based agency Creative Star, the videos can be viewed on the LRSSB YouTube channel here.

LRSSB Members can get high-resolution versions to download by contacting jamie.swift@lrssb.org