The Role of Human Factors in Rail Freight Innovation

This chapter illustrates an analysis of human factors study in the area of maintenance activities in the context of the implementation of new rail track and vehicle technologies. The approach adopted is based on a two-step analysis with a preliminary assessment and a detailed analysis. The first step has been carried out during the identification and development phase of track and vehicle components, whilst the detailed assessment based on the findings established within the preliminary assessment. The analysis is based on four expert interviews with major rail stakeholders and their inputs provided useful insights regarding several aspects of rail human factors implications from innovative rail technologies. According to the preliminary survey among stakeholders, SUSTRAIL innovations are expected to improve overall working conditions for track maintenance staff. SUSTRAIL project delivers innovations in both rail freight vehicles and track infrastructure components.