Network Rail and British Transport Police have joined forces in a new safety campaign after a survey revealed widespread ignorance about electrocution risks.

The campaign delivers a hard-hitting message urging people to not go onto railway tracks. The two organisations have today (Wednesday 2 April) launched a series of films called ‘Stay off the Tracks’. The videos form part of the existing You vs Train campaign.

Network Rail has also revealed new survey data showing that 59% of British people are unaware of the 750-volt electric ‘third rail’, and that more than a third (38%) believe that electrocution from rail tracks will not result in serious injury.

In the videos, first responders, working with film industry professionals, create representations of the life-threatening injuries that are caused by contact with the electric rail.

The videos are aimed at an adult audience, and viewer discretion is advised.

The survey results also showed that:

• 41% of people believe it is safe to walk on railway tracks if no trains are coming
• 40% believe it is safe to pick an item off the tracks as long as they do not touch the rail
• 34% of individuals aged 29-44 and 33% of those aged 18-28 admit they would take a shortcut across the tracks.

There are many dangers on the railway, many of which are not immediately visible. Among the dangers are being hit by an unexpected train, and electrocution from the electrified rail and overhead power lines.

The campaign coincides with the time of year when trespass on railway tracks increases significantly. In previous years, trespass incidents have increased by around a quarter in April, with contributory factors including school holidays and longer daylight.

An average year sees 19,000 railway trespass incidents. These can cause terrible human costs, and also cause 750,000 minutes of delayed passenger journeys and £75 million direct costs to public finances. Safety campaigning has included an activity book designed to educate children about avoiding danger on the railway.

“As a burns nurse, I’ve witnessed the severe consequences of third rail injuries. The high voltage can cause profound burns, leading to long-term physical and emotional suffering. It’s distressing to see individuals endure injuries that could have been easily prevented by staying off the tracks. These injuries not only affect the victims but also have a lasting impact on their families and friends.”

Nicole Lee, NHS Burns Network Manager for the London and South East region, who features in the campaign