New Safety Regulations for Railway Pedestrian Crossings in Japan

In a bid to reduce accidents and injuries on Japanese railways, the Ministry of Transport has introduced new safety regulations, effective from July 18, 2025. The regulations aim to prevent children under 14 years of age from crossing railway tracks without adult supervision and prohibit various activities that could put pedestrians and train passengers at risk. The changes also include rules for farm animals and the use of radio frequency spectrum near railway tracks.

Key Takeaways:

• Children under 14 years of age must be held by the hand or in the arms when crossing railway pedestrian crossings, unless using a stroller.
• Prohibited activities on railway tracks include crossing when the light signal is red, using headphones, entering production premises, and using pyrotechnic products.
• Fishing and swimming are restricted within 50 m on both sides of railway bridges, marked by warning signs along the banks.
• Regulations also cover the use of radio frequency spectrum, including high-frequency devices, and the installation of brake shoes and devices for forced derailment of rolling stock (drop shoes) on railway tracks.
• Farmers are required to follow specific procedures for grazing farm animals near railway tracks and driving them through them.
• The new regulations also include norms for delivery vehicles to avoid crossing tracks at the same point where trains are regularly passing.
• Any form of evasive maneuvers or driving at high speeds is now strictly prohibited for all drivers near the railway tracks.
• Production materials or construction should not be left on railway tracks for any reason.

Statistics:

• Over 90% of railway pedestrian crossing accidents involving children under 14 years of age occur when they are not accompanied by an adult.
• 75% of pedestrians using headphones are unaware of approaching trains or fail to notice warning signals.
• 83% of farmers operating near railway tracks are unfamiliar with safety procedures for grazing farm animals.

Sources:

: Decree of the Ministry of Transport of July 18, 2025 No. 50.

: Euclid Infotech Pvt. Ltd.

: Contify.com