Investing in passenger safety

This article describes the use of platform screens in the metro network in the city of Paris, France. Platform screens prevent passengers from falling onto the tracks and improve passenger perception of safety, while assisting drivers to supervise the closing of doors and improving punctuality. Feedback from the use of prototype screens led to screens being placed closer to the edge of the platform, and a lower height being specified to reduce costs and improve technical and visual integration. Transparency is retained and the panels are covered in film to resist graffiti. The screen system alternates platform doors with emergency doors, with side doors installed at platform ends to enable necessary access to the tracks. Installation involves reinforcing the platform edge and in some cases altering the layout of the side doors where the platform is shorter than usual. Where lines are to be automated, the screen control system can be changed as required to interface with the train automatic system. Rolling stock replacements must be considered carefully to ensure the door layout will be suitable.