Method for Accident Risk Analysis at Level Crossings to Improve Railway Operational Safety

Abstract

This article proposes a method for analyzing the risks of accidents at level crossings on Brazilian railroad tracks. An analysis of national and international standards was conducted to identify the main criteria used to classify the type of risk and define the type of signaling that should be used to increase the safety of these crossings. Based on the results of the analysis, a methodology was developed and applied to the railway network in the southeastern region of the country. The data obtained shows that investments in signaling had positive results. In addition, this reduction in accidents allowed for an increase in the maximum authorized speed (MAS) in the section studied, which generated a lower impact on traffic, since the level crossings are cleared more quickly. This ensures benefits for both the railway operation and the population that needs to cross at these points, reducing the noise emitted by traffic and the need for maintenance of locomotives and wagons.