Railway security, SNCF, private security, European Union, transport safety, fourth railway package, privatization, security regulations, railway police, France, rail transport
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Abstract
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Abstract
This document outlines the safety and security management structure in the French railway sector, detailing the roles of SNCF, private operators, and regulatory frameworks.
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[...] In serious accidents and 8 deaths were recorded within the SNCF team on site. Respecting signals and speed limits is essential to ensure the safety of rail traffic. It is from this observation and especially after tragic rail accidents that control systems have been put in place. But what does it control and by what means can these systems avoid accidents? The French railway control systems have three objectives. First, they must control the respect of signaling, particularly ensuring stopping at closed signals. [...]
[...] The mistrust regarding the level of security directly affects the influx and general perception of train transport, eroding initiatives in favor of ecological transition or modal transfer. The perception of security is not homogeneous: it differs according to profiles, contexts, and locations. Therefore, in less important stations or during off-peak travel, the feeling of isolation experienced by passengers, combined with sporadic police presence, accentuates the perception of a fragile environment. Women traveling alone, young people, and people with disabilities often exhibit a certain degree of vigilant anxiety. [...]
[...] Several drivers have expressed their discontent at being left in delicate situations without adequate support. Even the Deutsche Bahn, despite its dominant position, has not been spared from criticism. Studies have shown that internal commercial pressure can sometimes lead to conflicts between the need for profitability and the maintenance of a high level of security, particularly in stations. However, the German system is characterized by a greater flexibility: the Länder are authorized to establish strict security provisions in public contracts, which helps to regulate the actions of private actors. [...]
[...] It also encourages railway companies to adopt a proactive approach focused on risk analysis and continuous improvement. Although this directive primarily deals with defense, it also indirectly contributes to protection by integrating preventive measures against offensive behavior. 5. Regulation No 1371/2007 on the rights and obligations of railway passengers This Regulation No 1371/2007 of the European Parliament and of the Council, which has been in force since 3 December 2009, primarily protects the rights of railway passengers, but it also includes measures that have an impact on safety. [...]
[...] - Risks facing the present environment Whether it's a change in climate, temperatures or even plant conditions, we must also take into account the risks related to the environment. Between 2015 and 2022, railway accidents related to climate-related hazards have tripled according to the EPSF. For example, the impacts of lightning, the breaks of catenaries under the weight of snow. Also the effect of icing on signaling mechanisms or the fall of dead leaves on the track significantly increasing braking distances. B - Risk Prevention Railway networks play a crucial role in modern transportation systems. [...]
