Software developed to enhance rail level crossing safety

A new digital resource has been developed to help the rail industry transform the management of safety at more than 20,000 level crossings around Australia. Launched as part of Rail Safety Week, the National Level Crossing Reporting Portal (NLXP) is an initiative of the National Level Crossing Safety Committee (NLCSC), developed by the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR). The NLXP is a tailor-made data analytics software program that is designed to help governments and industry make better informed planning and investment decisions on level crossing safety treatments.

The portal comprises a series of predefined, user-friendly reports — in detail or aggregate form — that draw together specific level crossing occurrence data with an agreed subset of Australian Level Crossing Assessment Model (ALCAM) data. Extracts from the extensive data sets can be used to support evidence-based analysis. The NLXP was developed through widespread consultation with rail safety stakeholders and provides on-demand level crossing safety data, at no cost, through a self-serve online portal. To protect the integrity of the data, its use is governed by terms and conditions and prospective users must register for access via the NLXP website.

NLCSC Chair Tony Braxton-Smith said development of the NLXP will enable a step change in the management of safety at level crossings across Australia, adding that the portal will allow managers to understand safety performance at the touch of a button, pinpoint issues on the network, facilitate in-depth analysis at a local level and provide decision-makers with the information they need to act with confidence. “The National Level Crossing Reporting Portal answers the call from the rail industry for better informed decision-making on what to do to improve level crossing safety. Using this new safety management tool will save lives, bolster productivity and help to plan for a safer and better future for our communities,” Braxton-Smith said.

The NLCSC and ONRSE have conducted a series of initial information sessions with rail infrastructure managers and rolling stock operators who are invited to register. Rail industry associations and state and national level crossing committees will also be invited to register. ONRSR Chief Executive and National Rail Safety Regulator, Sue McCarrey, said it has been a complex and highly involved process to deliver a rich resource. “Of particular note is the work that has gone into ensuring that permission to share data has been gained from the data owners and the use of the data is strictly governed by the terms and conditions of use. This is a resource you can not only use but one you can trust,” McCarrey said.

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