Zero risk does not exist
According to Vincent Bayer, the absolute priority for the operator remains to inform travelers, regardless of the hazards on the network: “SNCB has several means to keep users informed. Station staff or even train attendants have, for example, their own communication system so as not to break the chain. Even if the situation was not optimal today, the information was able to circulate”.
As for the management of climatic hazards, it is shared between the rail transport company and Infrabel. SNCB therefore takes care of keeping the temperature stable inside these trains throughout the night. “This allows comfort to be maintained for the first passengers, but also to avoid certain technical problems.“, indicates the company.
In the workshops, various technicians are also busy regularly activating the pantograph (arm connecting the wagon to the catenary, Editor’s note) to avoid freezing. On the Infrabel side, in charge of infrastructure, “seasonal plans help prevent extreme temperatures. Preventive measures also exist“, explains Jessica Nibelle, spokesperson. Thus, a special anti-icing train can be deployed during periods of extreme cold.”Starting in October, this vehicle goes out once a month to spread antifreeze on the catenaries. Ice can affect electrical transmission“, she continues.
Despite careful foresight, zero risk does not exist. The disruptions this Friday morning are a good example. The situation on the network returned to normal at the end of the morning, shortly before 12 p.m. But late Friday afternoon, new delays were reported on certain lines (see image below).
