Tram alert system enters next phase of development

Backed by the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, the ‘Safer Tram Crossings’ initiative has seen the development of a new alert system by Efficiency Ups Ltd following initial ‘proof of concept’ tests by the company in Sheffield last year.

Now the research is being taken to the next level with Transport for London and London Tramlink planning further trials, while the University of Birmingham Enterprise is accelerating the development of prototype equipment.

In addition to providing funding for the project, the LRSSB has helped to support and guide the research and testing of the system, which is capable of providing a 30-second warning of an approaching tram at crossings.

Craig O’Brien, Head of Engineering Safety and Innovation at the LRSSB, explained: “Although serious incidents are fortunately uncommon, reducing the risk of collisions between pedestrians and trams is one of our top priorities.

“Early tests demonstrated the potential of the VibeSafe to do just that, and we’re fully behind this latest phase of its development.

“While the principle of using track vibrations as a trigger for warnings has been established, this next stage of the project will focus on determining the most effective way to implement the device and alert people of an approaching tram, be it through audio alarms, visual signals, or a combination of both.”

Jason Molyneux, Managing Director at Efficiency Ups Ltd, added: “It is fantastic to see that the Light Rail Sector are investing in innovative technology that improves public safety - enabling people to make safe decisions about their use. We are absolutely thrilled to be part of this journey with LRSSB and are determined to develop the technology to meet the needs of the sector and the end user - the public.”