Driver vigilance devices - systems review (T024)

This project identified various vigilance devices and technologies and evaluated their suitability for use in monitoring and maintaining train driver vigilance. Three devices were considered suitable within the constraints of UK railway operations but req

This project identified various vigilance devices and technologies and evaluated their suitability for use in monitoring and maintaining train driver vigilance. Out of thirteen devices identified in the information search, three were considered suitable for use by drivers and were within the constraints of British railway operations. One device, EDVTCS, was considered mature in terms of design development and actual use in overseas railways, and is the most suitable candidate for further evaluation and possible trials on the British railways. The areas and levels of assurance required for device implementation were identified. It was concluded that a monitoring device could possibly provide safety benefits, and that devices are available that reliably measure alertness. However, the prevalence of incidents related to drowsiness would have to be fully investigated and quantified before a full cost-benefit assessment could be performed.