ORR Safety Recommendations: GB Rail’s Implementation & Future

ORR monitors GB rail industry’s safety improvements, following recommendations. Final review planned for March 2026.

ORR Safety Recommendations: GB Rail’s Implementation & Future
September 18, 2025 6:55 pm
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Introduction

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has acknowledged advancements by the industry in response to recommendations made in collaboration with the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) and Network Rail, aimed at enhancing health and safety decision-making. The ORR’s recommendations were issued in March 2025.

Focus on Safety Decision-Making

The ORR’s recommendations were formulated to assist the GB rail industry in adopting a more consistent, evidence-based approach when evaluating the costs and benefits associated with safety decisions.

ORR’s Role and Objectives

Will Godfrey, ORR’s Director of Economics, Finance and Markets, stated that improved safety decision-making will enhance railway safety while ensuring value for money. The ORR, acting as the joint economic and safety regulator, aims to facilitate the appropriate outcome by integrating both regulatory aspects.

Implementation and Monitoring

Richard Hines, HM chief inspector of railways and ORR’s director of railway safety, noted that the industry’s response to the recommendations has been significant. The focus will now shift to the implementation of these actions, with progress being monitored before a final review scheduled for the spring.

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Future Actions

The Office of Rail and Road intends to monitor the application of the new training, tools, and guidance in the coming months, leading up to a final review by March 2026. Additionally, the ORR will assess the potential of extending this approach to encompass heritage and metro operations, expanding its application beyond the mainline railway.

Conclusion

The ORR is monitoring the GB rail industry’s progress in implementing safety recommendations, with a final review planned for March 2026. The ORR is also assessing how these improvements can be applied to other railway sectors.

Company Summary

Office of Rail and Road (ORR): The Office of Rail and Road is a regulatory body.

Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB): The Rail Safety and Standards Board is a rail industry organization.

Network Rail: Network Rail is a railway infrastructure owner and operator.

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