Queensland commuters reminded of rail safety

Queensland Rail have released new data and shocking footage showing a dramatic increase in the number of passengers falling between the platform and train at railway stations.

Queenslanders have been reminded to “mind the gap” on train station platforms after new figures were released showing the number of people falling between the train and platform more than doubled from 2020 to 2021.

Queensland Rail released new data in April that showed 54 customers slipped into the gap between the platform and the train in 2021, up from 21 in 2020.

Queensland Rail Head of South East Queensland Scott Riedel said that the rail operator is “deeply concerned” about the rise in incidents.

“This is a concerning increase and serves as a stark reminder that people, and especially children, can fall in the gap between a train and platform when not paying enough attention”, Mr Riedel said.

In shocking video released by Queensland Rail, one customer caught a foot in the gap that resulted in an awkward headfirst tumble between the train and platform.

Fast thinking commuters dragged the customer to safety before rail staff arrived to provide assistance.

In another incident a young child slipped beneath a train while walking close to the edge of the platform.

The child’s distressed parent called for help before other commuters rushed to the rescue, freeing the child before they both then boarded the train.

Mr Riedel said that this is an important safety message that applies to everybody.

“While small children can often fit through the gap, a larger child or adult can still sustain a painful injury if a limb slips between the train and platform,” he said.

A new education campaign has been launched by Queensland Rail to remind passengers about the need to vigilant while travelling on trains.

The ‘Travel with Care’ campaign aims to reduce falls between the train and platform. Customers can expect to see signage at key stations around the network as well as on trains, as a reminder to take care.

Originally published as Queensland commuters reminded of rail safety