Train Attack Serves as Catalyst for Change in Rail Safety

Earlier this month, a horrific attack on a London-bound LNER train left several people injured, including one train staff member in a serious condition, sending shockwaves through the rail industry.

The attack, which took place on a busy Saturday evening service, saw a train crew member courageously intervene to protect passengers from an armed attacker. Their quick thinking and bravery likely prevented further tragedy, but at great personal cost, including sustaining life-threatening injuries in the process.

Most TOCs (Train Operating Companies) will tell staff that their own safety and calling for support is the top priority during any safety incident. We are in support of this message alongside providing staff with training – such as conflict resolution, de-escalation and intervention – to equip them with skills and tools to handle these types of situations.

This incident is a stark reminder of the risks faced by rail employees who increasingly work alone, in isolated parts of the train or in reduced teams. Across the sector, many TOCs are moving towards leaner, more efficient staffing models. While this supports operational and financial goals, it also increases exposure for frontline workers who may have to manage conflict, abuse, or emergencies without direct support.

From a safety perspective, this must now be a catalyst for change.

Employers have a clear duty of care to ensure the safety of their employees, particularly those working alone in public-facing roles. This means taking proactive steps to identify and mitigate risks before incidents occur, rather than responding after the fact.

This includes taking practical steps such as carrying out thorough risk assessments, providing comprehensive training, and putting robust escalation procedures in place so staff have the means to summon help quickly if a situation escalates.

Technology can also play a critical role here: connecting employees to a 24/7 alarm receiving centre, where trained controllers can assess the situation and coordinate emergency response. This ensures that, even when staff are working alone, help is only a button press away – a crucial safety net in situations where every second counts.

Nicole Vazquez, Worthwhile Training, has worked with TOC’s for over 20 years, providing training to managers and frontline colleagues. She comments:

With these tools available, the responsibility now falls on TOCs to act decisively. As working practices are reevaluated in the wake of this incident, it’s evident that putting employee safety front and centre must be the top priority. Whether staff are dealing with passenger aggression, medical emergencies, or violent attacks, it’s imperative to have support available when danger arises.