Safety guide at level crossings

At locations where roads, highways and footpaths meet railway lines, you'll find level crossings. They're there to ensure that vehicles, pedestrians and animals can safely cross the railway line.

Level Crossing Sign Network Rail is responsible for the operation of level crossings.

Each crossing is carefully risk assessed and an appropriate level of protection is provided in line with safety guidelines approved by Her Majesty's Railway Inspectorate.

There are many types of level crossing across our network. There are automated barrier crossings with warning lights across busy highways and gated footpath crossings in urban and rural areas.

The type of crossing provided in any particular location is carefully considered and depends on factors including speed and frequency of trains, and volume of traffic on the road.

If you're walking or cycling towards a crossing, remember these simple rules:

read the warning signs and follow the instructions carefully
cyclists should dismount and walk across the crossing
children and animals should be suitably supervised at all times
stop, look both ways and listen
when the line is clear, cross quickly without running, still looking and listening as you go
if there is a gate, always close it behind you.

If you're driving, follow the Highway Code as well as the warning signs provided locally when using a level crossing, and follow these basic rules:

read and obey the warning signs on the approach to the crossing
warning lights, audible alarms and automatic barriers should be observed
do not be tempted to 'jump' the lights or beat the barriers. At many locations 'Gatso' cameras are being installed to observe crossing misuse and you could be prosecuted
at some locations, a telephone provides a direct link to the signalman. If in doubt, always call the signalman to check if it is safe to cross.

Please help us to make crossings safer by setting a good example and insisting that your family, friends and other users obey the rules. Misusing a level crossing could lead to death or serious injury to yourself or others, including people on the train.

Remember, do not take risks! Think safely, act safely!

For further information regarding railway safety, please contact the Network Rail National Helpline on 08457 711 41 41 or visit Network Rail.

If you see anyone other than railway staff or contractors on the track, please call the British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40.