Commenting, Tim O’Toole, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer said:
“The tragic incident on the Tramlink network in November 2016 deeply shocked and saddened us all. We are profoundly sorry that such an incident could take place aboard a service we operate and on behalf of everyone at FirstGroup, I would like to reiterate our condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives, and all those who were injured and affected by this terrible event.
“I would like to thank the Rail Accident Investigation Branch for their thorough report into the incident. We are grateful for their recommendations for improvements to the system in Croydon and tram networks across the UK.
“The RAIB concluded that management of fatigue was not a factor in the incident, nor did a speeding culture contribute to it. Nevertheless, over the past year we have taken a series of actions, working closely with Transport for London on whose behalf we operate the system, to implement additional measures including enhanced speed monitoring and restrictions, improved signage and renewed guidance on fatigue management.
“We have learned from the RAIB’s analysis and our own internal reviews and we will continue working hard, alongside TfL, to follow the RAIB’s advice and to make further changes where necessary.
“Our commitment to the safety of our passengers, our employees and other parties who engage with us is unwavering. Safety is a core value for FirstGroup and central to our culture as a company.”
ENDS
- Tram Operations Limited (TOL), a subsidiary of FirstGroup, operate London’s tram network on behalf of Transport for London.