Seen and being seen at Crailoo: how we ensure safe crossings
Our expansive site in Hilversum brings together technology, innovation, and the logistics that come with it. Every day, we welcome colleagues, customers, suppliers, and other visitors – and we do so with great pleasure. There’s a lot to see and experience at Crailoo. But we want everyone not only to arrive with a good feeling but also to return home safely. That’s why we’re constantly taking steps to improve safety on the site. One of the latest measures is the addition of yellow markings at our level crossings.
Yellow markings for greater clarity
At Crailoo, rail and road traffic frequently intersect. To enhance safety at these points, yellow markings have recently been added. These yellow areas indicate the so-called “clearance profile” – the space that must remain completely clear when a train passes. These visual cues help road users instantly recognize where they can and especially where they cannot stop or stand.
The markings are based on a successful pilot by ProRail in Den Dolder. There, the clearly marked boundaries led to more cautious behavior among road users.
The train driver’s view
What many people don’t realize is that train drivers have limited visibility at level crossings. While a car driver often has a good view of the surroundings and can respond quickly, the view from a locomotive cab is quite different. A vehicle trying to cross at the last moment is often only visible to the driver at the very last second – especially in unclear situations, when there are obstacles near the track, or during bad weather.
These limited sightlines, combined with the long braking distance, mean that every second counts. A train can’t swerve and needs far more time and space to come to a complete stop compared to road vehicles.
Crucial for safety
That’s why it’s essential that level crossings always remain completely clear – and that road users are aware of the limited visibility from a train driver’s perspective. Small misjudgments can have serious consequences. The new markings on our site help ensure that everyone stops in time and far enough from the tracks. This contributes to a work environment where safety comes first and everyone can do their job with confidence.
