Safety system on London Trams network to prevent the overspeeding of trams receives Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL2) certification

This SIL2 accreditation is a UK first for a light rail overspeed protection system and provides independent safety assurance.

In January 2019, DB ESG was selected by Transport for London, following a competitive tendering process, to develop, design, install and commission a device to physically prevent the overspeeding (PPOS) of light rail vehicles operated by London Trams in the Croydon area. DB ESG collaborated with Sella Controls who provided the hardware and software, including a PPOS controller and Tracklink III system.

This system has been fully operational for over a year, during which time it has demonstrated exceptional performance, with 100 per cent availability and zero system failures over this time. In February 2023, the Independent Safety Assessor certified the overspeeding protection system, including both the hardware and the software, as being safety assured at Level 2 (SIL2).

Commenting on this success, Nick Goodhand, Managing Director, DB ESG said: “We are absolutely delighted that this system has received this mark of safety quality. Protecting a tram network with the highest possible level of safety gives operators the peace of mind that they are doing their uttermost to keep their passengers safe. “

Chris Elliott, Business Development Director for SELLA CONTROLS added: “The successful delivery of the PPOS solution to London Trams is a fantastic achievement for us and our partners in this project, DB ESG and Transport for London. Knowing that we have implemented a solution that will provide our client with the highest level of safety for its tram network is of the upmost importance. As a passenger it is good to know that safety is at the forefront of London Trams’ operation”.

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