Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB)

The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) was established in April 2003, in response to recommendations made by Lord Cullen in the report of the second part of the public inquiry into the Ladbroke Grove accident.

RSSB's primary objective is to lead and facilitate the railway industry’s work to achieve continuous improvement in the health and safety performance of the railways in Great Britain. They help reduce risk to passengers, employees and the public.

What does RSSB do?

  • manage Railway Group Standards on behalf of the industry
  • lead the development of long-term safety strategy for the industry, including the publication of annual Railway Strategic Safety Plans
  • facilitate change by leading a research programme and providing education, awareness materials and events
  • support cross-industry groups working on national programmes addressing major areas of safety concern, and
  • facilitate the effective representation of the UK rail industy in the development of European legislation and standards that impact on the rail system.

RSSB is a not-for-profit company owned by major industry stakeholders. The company is limited by guarantee and is governed by its members, a board and an advisory committee.   It is independent of any single railway company and of their commercial interests.

We have observer status on the RSSB Board.

Last updated: 26 February 2008

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