Two people are injured every day at UK train stations due to risky behaviours such as running for trains, forcing doors, or carrying heavy luggage on escalators, according to new data from Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR). To tackle this alarming trend, the UK’s largest train operator has released its first-ever safety film, Travel Safe with Diane Morgan, aiming to encourage passengers to slow down and prioritise safety.
The short video stars award-winning comedian Diane Morgan, known for her dry wit, navigating common station risks while hilariously interrupted before disaster strikes. The film captures the internal dialogue many passengers experience when rushing through stations, highlighting how time pressures can push people toward unsafe choices.
Risky Station Behaviour is More Common Than You Think
GTR’s research reveals that almost one third (31%) of UK passengers admit their “inner voice” tempts them to take risks, such as sprinting for trains, jumping through closing doors, or hauling bulky luggage on escalators. These behaviours contribute to around 800 preventable injuries across GTR’s network each year.
Samantha Facey, Health, Safety and Security Director at GTR, commented:
“Most injuries we see from these behaviours are preventable. People are busy, journeys can be rushed, and some habits are so ingrained they stop feeling like risks at all. Working with Diane gave us a way to make people laugh at behaviour they might recognise in themselves, and in doing so, genuinely think twice. We want customers to pause, take their time, and travel safely, and I hope this film is a step towards that.”
The research also highlights a lack of awareness around station hazards:
- 32% of travellers didn’t realise running for a train is unsafe
- 27% didn’t think taking heavy luggage or buggies on escalators posed a risk
Interestingly, while 25% of passengers report seeing someone caught in closing train doors, only 7% admit to doing it themselves. Public perception also reinforces safety awareness: 79% find getting stuck in doors embarrassing, while 47% view running for trains similarly.
Diane Morgan on Rail Safety
Diane Morgan said of the campaign:
“As has been well publicised, I have always been a strong advocate for rail safety. Unlike some of my comedy contemporaries, who would love to see passengers fall down stairs or get their head trapped in closing doors, I have always made it quite clear that rail safety is my number one priority. These short films are the culmination of my life’s work. Enjoy them.”
Top Stations for Preventable Accidents
GTR has identified the stations where the most preventable incidents occur:
Passengers are encouraged to allow extra time for journeys, avoid rushing, and prioritise safety.
