Transport for NSW is rolling out nation-leading emergency safety materials for passengers with vision impairments or intellectual disabilities on regional rail services.
The initiative, led by NSW TrainLink, introduces new accessibility measures including Braille for passengers with vision impairments and Easy Read format for people with intellectual disabilities.
The new materials will help all passengers understand what to do in an emergency – like finding the nearest exit, pressing help buttons, or safely getting off the train.
“The introduction of Braille and Easy Read safety materials represents a significant step forward in making public transport truly accessible,” said Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington.
“More than 450,000 Australians have an intellectual disability, and many more have vision impairments. This important initiative ensures those passengers have the same access to critical safety information as everyone else, which could save someone’s life.”
Coinciding with National Rail Safety Week, the comprehensive suite of new safety materials is part of a blitz to make regional rail travel in NSW safer and more accessible. Other material includes:
- Animated safety videos both on board and on platforms;
- Audio announcements on board trains and platforms;
- Revised onboard safety cards in Braille and Easy Read formats;
- Accessible station information including posters, digital screens and signage.
“We are making safety information more accessible at every stage of the journey,” said Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison.
“The Minns Labor Government believes in fairness and that means ensuring every passenger, regardless of their abilities, has equal access to the safety information they need to travel confidently on our regional rail network.
“Rail Safety Week from 11 to 17 August is a great opportunity to remind passengers of how important it is to be prepared in case of an emergency.”
Council for Intellectual Disability advocate, Shannon Lalor said it was vital that appropriate emergency messages reach everyone travelling on trains.
“Easy Read helps people with intellectual disability understand information about staying safe on trains,” said Mr Lalor.
“These cards help people stay safe, especially when travelling long distance. We need to know this important information just like everyone else.”
