UKTram contributes to international discussions on operations and safety in Vienna

Learning across networks to improve performance and safety

UKTram’s Operations Manager, Steve Duckering, joined international industry colleagues at the UITP Light Rail Committee Workstream on Operations and Safety, held in Vienna on 25 February 2026. Hosted by Wiener Linien, the meeting brought together operators and stakeholders to review key priorities and share insights on operational performance and emerging challenges across light rail networks.

A central theme of the discussion was the growing role of Lean management approaches in both maintenance and operations. Participants considered the practical application of Lean principles, stressing the importance of change management. There was strong support for continuing to share real-world examples and learning across future sessions.

The workstream also explored light rail safety in the context of increasing automation, including the role of driver assistance systems and the significance of maintaining effective interaction between operators and emerging technologies. Members agreed to continue joint discussions to better understand how automation can support safety improvements across networks.

Further discussion focused on service prioritisation and network performance, with Wiener Linien presenting its line-by-line prioritisation approach. The strategy aims to improve average speeds across the network, potentially reducing vehicle requirements and enabling more effective operations. Participants shared comparable challenges across their own networks, including obstructed tracks, parking constraints and signal behaviour.

The meeting also considered the role of industry participation within the workstream, with agreement that suppliers may be invited to contribute to specific topics where appropriate, while continuing a concentration on collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Steve Duckering reflected:

"It’s always beneficial to hear how other networks are approaching common operational challenges, particularly around prioritisation and the use of Lean methods. These conversations help operators learn from one another and apply solutions that improve performance and safety in a real-world context."

An online follow-up session will take place ahead of the next Light Rail Committee meeting in June, with the next in-person workstream meeting expected later in the year. UKTram continues to engage with international partners through forums such as UITP, supporting information exchange and bringing insights back to the UK and Ireland light rail sector.