University of Twente Student Theses
Investigation of Urban Rail Crossing Safety in The Netherlands
Wengel, D.J.W. ter (2022) Investigation of Urban Rail Crossing Safety in The Netherlands.
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| Abstract: | In this study, a statistical model is developed for urban rail level crossings using a variety of variables related to infrastructure, traffic and environment. These variables are collected for all separated urban rail lines within the four urban rail networks in the Netherlands, resulting in 666 crossings. Between January 2014 and December 2021, 257 accidents were registered on these crossings where urban rail vehicles were involved. Descriptive statistics show differences in the design of level crossings and that no standard design is applied. Negative binomial regression modelling identifies significant variables that influence safety on crossings. The model shows several significant variables that can explain the occurrence of accidents on these crossings. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to investigate the model's explanatory power. A prediction model is created for a scenario analysis using Safety Performance Functions, which are adjusted by Crash Modification Factors. This prediction model can proactively assess crossings by predicting the number of accidents and assessing safety measures. The scenario analysis focuses on a tram line within Utrecht, the Netherlands, and evaluates three scenarios for improving the safety level of level crossings. Finally, a cost-benefit analysis is created in which costs of measures and accidents are combined. The lowest accident rates can be established by applying boom barriers to crossings, which is even more cost-effective than the doing nothing scenario depending on the type of boom barriers being implemented. Furthermore, decreasing speed on crossings lowers the accident rates; however, this effect is moderate compared to the application of barriers. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | ET: Engineering Technology |
| Programme: | Civil Engineering and Management MSc (60026) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/90540 |
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