Iarnród Éireann launches safety campaign over growing numbers of slips and falls

By Rebecca Black, PA

Rail operator Iarnród Éireann has launched a safety campaign in response to a growing numbers of falls.

There were 145 slips, trips and falls recorded in 2022, and 52 in the first three months of 2023.

There were also 66 incidents of cycling, skateboarding and scooting on platforms last year, and 24 so far this year.

According to figures compiled by Iarnród Éireann, most falls were recorded at Connolly station (40), followed by 33 at Heuston station, 14 at Kent station in Cork, and 10 each at Dún Laoghaire station and Tara Street station.

Iarnród Éireann has launched new safety videos to address the matter as well as warning over being too close to the platform edge at stations.

A company spokesperson said safety is its number one priority.

They said: “It’s our responsibility to ensure we provide a safe travelling environment. However, we do also need our customers to help us.

“Slips, trips and falls thankfully tend to result in minor injuries at worst. However, there can be more serious incidents and while accidents can happen, running or rushing through the station will always increase risk.

“We’d urge customers to allow time to reach the platform for their train and to be careful of their own safety and that of others when moving through the station.”

They said while incidents of cycling, skateboarding or scooting on platforms are relatively low, they are also increasing and show “complete disregard for other customers”.

“We will issue fines for this but urge those using bikes or similar to travel to and from the station to be mindful of others,” they added.

“The Stay Alert Stay Safe campaign shows common safety scenarios and how to best navigate them to make sure you have the best journey possible with Iarnród Éireann.”

The new videos will feature on the company’s social media channels Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube over the coming months.