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Although highway/railway grade crossing collisions and fatalities have reached their
lowest levels in over a decade, Transport Canada and its partners continue to seek
opportunities to improve the system’s safety.
Following an independent review of the federal Railway
Safety Act in 1994, the review committee recommended that highway/railway grade
crossing collisions and trespassing incidents be reduced by 50 per cent over a ten-year
period.
The federal government was in full agreement, and in 1996 a national consultation
process was implemented. The response was overwhelmingly in favor of the program, and
"Direction 2006" was born. The program is a partnership between public and
private sector railway stakeholders, including Transport Canada, provincial and municipal
governments, law enforcement agencies, safety organizations and railway companies and
their unions. A recent review of the Railway
Safety Act completed by the department in January 1998 reinforced the importance
of a concerted effort in this area.
To reach its target, "Direction 2006" has identified several key work areas:
education, enforcement, engineering, research, bureaucratic and legislative framework,
resources and communications.
The primary objective of "Direction 2006" is to increase awareness of the
safety issues surrounding rights-of-way and grade crossings. For example, the program will
include rail safety awareness in police officer training and the publication of a guide
aimed at road authorities to provide information on their roles and responsibilities
pertaining to trespassing and
crossing safety.
Increased public awareness is also essential — the program calls for the
introduction of additional rail safety information in provincial driver education, as well
as driving manuals and vehicle handbooks.
To reduce the number of trespassing incidents on railway property, a "Community
Trespassing Prevention Guide" was developed, to keep the public informed of
how best to avoid any potential dangers.
Indeed, all Canadians can help improve our national safety record. Motorists and
pedestrians alike can take action. Even crossing locations equipped with warning devices
— such as bells and gates — demand alert, prudent driving and caution.
By acting intelligently and safely, we can all do our part to make "Direction
2006" a success and ensure that our railway system remains safe in the future.
More information can be obtained through the "Direction 2006 Info Line"
at 1-888-267-7704.
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