On the Rails Deterring Trespass, Theft and Vandalism

Trespass, vandalism and cable theft doesn’t just cost Network Rail millions of pounds each year. It harms our economy, disrupts our plans and puts too many lives at unnecessary risk. Each and every one of us loses when unauthorised people step foot on the tracks.

That’s why we partner so closely with Network Rail, British Transport Police, train operating companies, industry and support organisations like the Samaritans to predict, deter and detect unwanted intrusions. We’re proud of our 15-year relationship with Network Rail that has delivered significant savings while enhancing safety and security across the network.

It’s certainly not easy. There are 20,000 miles of track to protect in the UK alone before we even consider the other European territories in which we operate. It means our Crime Intelligence function working hand in glove with crime reduction managers to understand their specific challenges and to devise bespoke recommendations for each site.

It also means being certified to install our solutions trackside under our own Safe Work Pack, using our own Control of Site Safety personnel and Personal Track Safety trained engineers. But it’s all worth it when we consider the peace of mind it helps us bring to people and communities, every single day.

This guide is for anybody working to deter trespass, vandalism and cable theft to increase safety and security on the railways. We hope it can inform and inspire your own crime prevention strategies.

Rail Trespass in Numbers 

• 108,168 – minutes of delays to UK rail passenger and freight services in 23/24 (Source: Network Rail)
• 19,300 – recorded UK trespass incidents in 23/24 (Source: Network Rail)
• 1,937+ – suicide interventions on the railway in 23/24 (Source: Network Rail)
• €7m – annual cost of copper theft to Deutsche Bahn (Source: EuroNews)
• 500 – near misses reported at level crossings each year (Source: Network Rail)
• 25,000 – volts of electricity in an overhead power line (Source: Network Rail)
• £3.5m – Network Rail’s annual spend on removing graffiti (Source: Network Rail)
• €200m – Deutsche Bahn’s annual spend on the security of customers & employees
• 1,000 –miles of rail cable forensically marked with SmartWater SmartTrace
• 100%-  the conviction rate in contested court cases for DeterTech’s SmartWater®

Recommendations for Rail Operators

• Report all incidents – Promptly notify the police and DeterTech Crime Intelligence of incidents and thefts. It allows for the improved monitoring of the location and modus operandi of organised criminal gangs
• Identify high-risk areas – Focus on the most vulnerable locations for trespass, cable theft and vandalism such as at level crossings, unmanned platforms and in remote areas. The rail network is vast but targeted interventions at key access points will make a significant difference
• Conduct regular perimeter checks – Monitor for any fencing that has recently been damaged or cut. This is often a precursor to further intrusion and a sign that the location is on the radar of organised criminal gangs
• Take advantage of site security reviews – DeterTech offers bespoke site security assessments free of charge to advise and quote on the most appropriate crime prevention solutions
• Advertise security measures – Clearly communicate that advanced security measures are in place as the first priority should be maximising their deterrent value. Warning signage & community/ school awareness days are proven to be effective in reducing incidents
• Leverage local eyes & ears – Communicate with staff and the local community about who to call if they suspect criminality on site. Instruct them not to directly challenge offenders, but to note details that could be of interest to security and the police
• Prioritise redeployable CCTV – Depending on the scenario there’s a role for both overt and covert CCTV. The most vulnerable locations will change over time so ensure you can move the equipment as necessary.
• Ensure a rapid response – Incident response times are critical in deterring intruders and limiting damage caused by theft or vandalism. Our Alarm Receiving Centre typically takes just 47 seconds to review, verify and escalate an identified intrusion
• Use forensic marking – SmartWater has a 100% conviction rate in contested court cases. Mark and register assets and materials to ensure the best chance of their recovery if stolen.
• Change the environment – Once targeted, sites are highly likely to be revisited within the same year. So, ensure there is a visible security upgrade at these premises. The PID 360 is a proven solution that can be in place within 72 hours

Trespass – Warwickshire, UK 

Following a spike in trespassing in Nuneaton and Bedworth, DeterTech installed covert cameras beside the tracks.

Soon, DeterTech’s Alarm Receiving Centre identified three teenagers throwing ballast stones and hanging around perilously close to where trains would pass at up to 45mph. British Transport Police Officers were immediately alerted, found the boys and took them home. Thankfully before they came to serious harm.

Network Rail has released the video to deter others from needlessly risking life and limbs on the railway.

 

Cable Theft – London to North-West Line, UK 

A lack of traceable evidence linking cable thieves to their crimes made it difficult for the police to prosecute offenders. Criminals also became aware of this, exacerbating the problem.

Crime Intelligence first reviewed and analysed Network Rail’s crime data before making its recommendations. DeterTech then deployed covert cameras at key access points, marked cable in high-risk locations with SmartWater SmartTrace and placed deterrent warning signage along the rail line.

This has achieved an 89% reduction in cable theft incidents, preventeded 660,000 minutes of delays and resulted in 170+ positive interventions.

 

Graffiti – Southport, UK 

A site in the Northwest of England was suffering extensively from graffiti attacks on stabled trains. This caused particular concern due to new stock that was to be stored at the site.

Following DeterTech’s security review, cameras to be monitored 24/7 were installed and an escalation plan was agreed with British Transport Police.

Offenders were subsequently pictured at the scene, leading to an individual being successfully arrested and charged with criminal damage & trespass

 

Testimonials 

“Cable theft is a serious offence and causes tremendous disruption to passengers and great cost to Network Rail. The work of DeterTech and British Transport Police is one of a number of important methods we are using to deal with cable theft.” Dyan Crowther, Route Managing Director, Network Rail

“Co-operation and a partnership approach was key to developing this solution, and from day one DeterTech has worked with ourselves and Network Rail to design a solution that benefits all parties, and we have been delighted with the outcome.” Danny Gent, Logistics Security Lead, Co-op.