Kosovo learns from EBRD-backed rail safety programme

Delegates from Kosovo’s rail regulator, infrastructure manager Infrakos and operator Trainkos visited the UK in October as part of scheme to develop professional and organisational capabilities which is being run by the Institution of Occupational Safety & Health in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction & Development.

The tour had a particular focus on level crossings, contractor management and trackside maintenance. The delegation ‘seemed to appreciate that safety doesn’t always need to cost money, and small things can make a big difference’, said Derran Williams, Senior Health & Safety Advisor for EBRD.

‘We took many ideas from our visit, including revising our internal regulations and improving train facilities for disabled people’, said Refet Citaku of Infrakos. ‘We will share our experience to the rest of the staff who did not have the chance to participate in this study tour.’

The tour included visits to a Bombardier maintenance depot, the Great Central Railway, an explanation of signalling from Network Rail and Collis Engineering and a meeting with IOSH Railway Group members.

‘Capitalising on our members’ expertise, and transferring existing sector-specific good practice across borders to tackle recurrent risk areas is at the heart of IOSH’s Work 2022 strategy’, said IOSH President Graham Parker.