Technical Solutions for Means of Rail Transport in Improving Accessibility for People with Disabilities and with Reduced Mobility

Abstract

The article includes an analysis involving the requirements for the adaptation of rolling stock for use by people with movement dysfunction. The requirements including construction and dimensions have been summarized and detailed conditions necessary to ensure the assumed level of travel comfort for people with reduced mobility with real examples of solutions used in currently operated railway vehicles. The focus was on the requirements set out in Regulation No 1300/2014 regarding technical design and construction solutions for adapting railways to the transport of disabled people, TSI PRM. Based on the collected material, an analysis of the compliance of the actual state with the theoretical one, included in the standard, was carried out. Elements designed and manufactured in a manner consistent with the recommendations contained in the standard, as well as those that require a re-analysis of rolling stock constructors, repair or necessary changes are indicated. The components analyzed included, among others, seating positions, movement zone - including internal and external doors, toilets or platforms enabling access to the interior of the vehicle The opinion of disabled people using rail transport was also included by conducting a survey and performing analysis and then interpretation of the data obtained. Basing on this analysis, solutions that will increase the comfort of travelling for people with disabilities have been proposed.