Rail safety regulatory environment : a South African experience

Abstract

Post-1994, the railway environment in South Africa could best be described as monopolistic competition. The former South African Railways & Harbours, which later became Transnet Freight Rail, was and still is the only role player. Transnet was able develop regulations and standards to manage their operations. The new dispensation brought with it many changes; chief amongst which was the introduction of the transport agencies that function at arms-length to promote safety in and across all transport modes. The Railway Safety Regulator was established in 2002, has been in operation since 2005, promoting, and regulating safety in the railway environment. The purpose of this paper is to look at the key elements of the railway safety regulatory regime in South Africa and compare it to other local and international regulators. There a number of differences between the regulations of railway safety in South Africa when compared to other countries. However, it is important to consider South African conditions and environment before adopting some of the best practices.