The role of HMRI is to secure the proper control by dutyholders of risks to the health and safety of employees, passengers and others who might be affected by the operation of Britain's railways. We do this within an overall strategy set by ORR. We have Inspectors and policy advisors who work together to develop and deliver this strategy.
The term 'dutyholders' means railway operators such as Network Rail, the train and freight operating companies and contractors who have responsibilities under health and safety law. HMRI have developed specific risk profile topic strategies which identify HMRI’s operational policy, strategic aims and, at high level, potential work streams, for ensuring that risks associated with topic(s) are properly managed by duty holders.
As the independent economic and safety regulator, we are also prepared to take enforcement action to ensure that those who have duties under the law are held to account for failures to safeguard health and safety.
Guidance on Reporting of Serious Incidents to HM Railway Inspectorate (HMRI) is available as a related link on the right.