Many steps to maintain traffic safety

• Main priorities for improving rail safety have been risk management, correct working methods and formalized communications.

• VR has started regular safety briefings and safety inspections at workplaces.

• The Finnish Rail Agency issued new regulations for railway operators that entered into force in November 2008. All employees working in rail safety jobs have been given the necessary training about these changes. VR has also amended its in-house instructions to incorporate the changes.

• VR continues to cooperate closely with the Finnish Rail Agency and the Finnish Rail Administration to improve rail safety in Finland. A good example of this cooperation is the safety systems installed in Finland’s longest railway tunnel on the new Vuosaari harbour track.

• VR has participated in various research projects headed by the Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT) aimed at improving traffic safety.

• Pohjolan Liikenne has had an AlcoLock in trial usage on express long-distance routes, and this trial is now in its second year.

The Finnish Rail Agency monitors and develops rail safety and interoperability and prepares norms for railway traffic. The Finnish Rail Administration is responsible for the maintenance and development of the rail network. Both organizations are subordinate to the Ministry of Transport and Communications.