Pram-train collision prompts call for improved sloping platform warnings

Accident investigators have stated that improved warnings regarding sloping platforms are necessary following an incident where a two-month-old baby sustained injuries after its pram rolled into the side of a moving train. This event took place as a passenger train approached Banbury station, located in Oxfordshire, shortly after 12:36 BST on 8 June. A report from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) determined that existing warning notices concerning a subtle slope leading towards the platform edge lacked sufficient prominence. Chiltern Railways, which manages the station, has subsequently placed signs within customer lifts to caution users of pushchairs and wheelchairs. The RAIB report detailed that the infant’s parent and a relative were waiting behind the yellow line, accompanied by the pram and luggage. The parent subsequently released the pram “momentarily,” causing it to roll forward and collide with the second carriage of the train. At the time of the collision, the train was moving at approximately 35mph (56km/h). The force of the impact caused the pram to “spin and tip over,” resulting in the infant falling onto the platform and sustaining minor head injuries. The report concluded: “The small degree of slope present is unlikely to have been apparent to the infant’s parent, who possibly became momentarily distracted while unaware of the hazard created by the slope.” Rail industry research conducted in 2018 previously cautioned that platforms with a slight incline towards the edge presented a “considerable risk” to individuals utilizing pushchairs and wheelchairs. This research suggested communication enhancements such as platform marking, signage, and station announcements to inform passengers about the hazard. The report indicated that ground signs at Banbury Station, which warned “Sloping Platform Apply Brakes,” were painted yellow to denote a hazard but were not positioned within passengers’ direct line of sight. In a statement, Chiltern Railways commented: “Our station staff looked after the family involved in this incident, called an ambulance and supported the family whilst the paramedics arrived.“We have since installed additional signage at Banbury Station which reminds customers to remain vigilant and safe on the platforms.”