Following a recent incident on a train at North Greenwich involving a viable explosive device being found in a rucksack, the RMT raised grave concerns about how we deal with security on LUL.

 

We have felt for sometime now that existing processes and training given to staff around security have fallen short and could be improved.

 

Previous to the recent Active shooter and bladed weapon guidance, the only security guidance given to Train Operators was the HOT process. This process sets out the steps to follow if you should encounter a suspicious package on your train........is it Hidden, is it Obvious, is it Typical.

 

We feel that the HOT process clearly has its good points, however a number of incidents have shown up some limitations. This process was designed in 1991 to deal with the security and infrastructure situation at that time and we believe it needs to be reviewed. 

 

LUL at a meeting to discuss the North Greenwich incident agreed to a review of the HOT process for all functions across LUL, alarmingly other functions such as fleet have no security guidance at all,  this review is currently being arranged.

 

They also accepted our concerns about the lack of guidance offered to contractors, such as cleaners, and said they would look to address this awareness gap.

 

In the meantime Train Operators are asked to always work safely and not put yourself at risk. If you have any concerns about security, including suspicious packages, you should do the safest thing for yourself and the travelling public. 

 

The RMT will always support Train Operators and other staff alike who make decisions in the best interest of safety.