RSSB backs calls for lowering age for train drivers

A new study by the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has recommended lowering the minimum age requirement for train drivers from 20 to 18. The research found that existing training, competency, and safety systems are sufficient to accommodate younger drivers.

A formal review into the possibility of lowering the age was initially launched by the previous government, with former rail minister, Huw Merriman keen to “open the door to school leavers”.

Its research was partly driven by the prospect of many train drivers setting to retire over the next five years, with the average age currently 48 years old. The Department for Transport (DfT) estimated in its initial findings that just over 8,000 drivers were between 50-60 years old.

The DfT at the time of the review also argued that technology and safety controls had significantly improved over the years including the introduction of Automatic Train Protection (ATP) and train protection warning systems (TPWS).

The plans have now received a boost with The RSSB backing the change. It argues that it would make the profession more attractive to younger people, potentially increasing the number of qualified train drivers as well as additionally, it could help to diversify the workforce and bring in new perspectives.

The study also found that experience, rather than age, is a better predictor of driver performance. Skills such as hazard perception, situational awareness, and decision-making are likely to improve with exposure to the role.

RSSB CEO Mark Phillips expressed optimism about the potential benefits of this change. "Encouraging more school leavers to take up train driving apprenticeships is what our railways need," he said. "By lowering the age requirement, we can increase the diversity and size of the candidate pool and harness skills that are more prevalent in the next generation.”

The train driver’s union ASLEF are broadly welcome of the idea, having originally explored the idea pre-COVID, as it aimed to bring the minimum age in line with London Underground drivers, which is currently 18, however it didn’t pursue it once strikes were in place.

The union’s general secretary Mick Whelan told RAIL: “We broadly welcome any moves to lower the age of train drivers. We need to look at ways of diversifying our workforce and this plan could certainly help.”

Although the Government hasn't outlined its plans publically, RAIL understands that the DfT is currently reviewing the report findings but no timeframe on its own review has been set.