As rail travel continues to play a vital role in the lives of millions of people across Europe, ensuring equal access and accessible trains for all passengers remains a top priority.
Portaramp, a leading UK-based company, has emerged as a trailblazer in the field of rail accessibility solutions. With a commitment to revolutionising the rail travel experience for people with reduced mobility, Portaramp has installed ramps in almost every UK rail station, solidifying its position as the UK's leader in the sector.
Now, Portaramp extends its expertise and passion for inclusivity to the European rail market, providing innovative solutions that bridge the accessibility gap for travellers travelling by train, of all abilities.
Railways serve as the lifeline of modern societies, connecting cities, regions, and countries efficiently and sustainably.
For many, rail travel offers not just a mode of transportation but a means of independence, granting access to employment, education, healthcare, and leisure activities.
However, for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users, people with mobility aids, visually impaired customers and those with strollers or heavy luggage, the journey can be fraught with obstacles that hinder their seamless experience.
Ensuring that railway stations and trains are accessible to all, is not merely an obligation for train companies, it is a fundamental right that supports the principles of equality and social inclusion.
A train company may require some or all of the following provisions to ensure accessible trains:
As the demand for rail travel continues to grow, it becomes increasingly essential for rail operators to prioritise accessibility, accommodating the diverse needs of their passengers.
In the European Union (EU), there are laws and regulations in place to ensure that individuals with disabilities or reduced mobility have equal access to train travel.
These regulations apply to all rail journeys and services within the EU. According to the EU rules on rail passenger rights, passengers with disabilities are entitled to certain rights, including compensation in case of delays or cancellations.
The European Accessibility Act, which came into force in 2019, mandates that Member States have three years to transpose it into national law, introducing new accessibility standards for trains. This includes requirements for wheelchair accessible sleeping accommodations and fully accessible toilets on trains.
The aim is to make train travel more inclusive and accessible for everyone, promoting safety, comfort, and equal opportunities for all passengers. These regulations are periodically examined and enforced by the EU to ensure efficient and safe rail transport across member countries.
Portaramp's unparalleled dedication to inclusivity and accessible trains is evident in its installation of ramps across the UK rail network. With an extensive range of lightweight, portable access ramps, Portaramp has transformed platforms across the country into fully accessible spaces. These durable, high-strength aluminium composite ramps are designed to comply with all relevant legislation and interoperability regulations, ensuring the safety and convenience of passengers with reduced mobility.
Recognising that each rail station presents unique challenges, Portaramp specialises in providing tailor-made safe access solutions to fit specific requirements. From rail wheelchair ramps to evacuation bridges, Portaramp's team of specialists collaborate closely with rail operators to deliver bespoke designs that meet the highest standards of safety and functionality for accessible trains.
Portaramp extends its commitment to safety beyond passenger access. The company provides fall protection solutions, including pit protection, train access platforms, and overhead rigid rail safety line fall arrest systems. These innovations empower maintenance teams to work securely and efficiently, ensuring the overall safety of railway infrastructure.
As Portaramp solidifies its position as the UK's leader in rail accessibility solutions, it is poised to bring its expertise and dedication to the broader European rail market.
With a track record of success, Portaramp has gained the trust of major train builders and train operators everywhere, earning recognition as a UK manufacturer compliant with European PRM TSI ( Persons with Reduced Mobility, Technical Standard Interoperability). Now, the company is set to extend its hand of partnership and assistance to European rail companies, offering transformative solutions to enhance accessibility across the continent.
Portaramp views collaboration as a cornerstone of progress. By working hand in hand with European rail companies, Portaramp seeks to develop tailored solutions that align with each operator's unique needs and passenger profile.
Understanding that a one-size-fits-all approach is inadequate in the realm of accessibility, Portaramp's team of specialists is dedicated to creating solutions that reflect each country's local context, regulations, and infrastructure.
Beyond the moral imperative to provide inclusive rail travel, European rail companies must also navigate legal requirements related to accessibility.
European Directive 2016/2102 outlines the standards for the accessibility of public sector bodies' websites and mobile phone applications, including rail operators.
By collaborating with Portaramp, national rail and companies can demonstrate their compliance with these directives, reinforcing their commitment to passenger inclusivity and avoiding potential legal challenges.
As Portaramp expands its presence in Europe, the company envisions creating a comprehensive portfolio of successful collaborations. The experiences of implementing its rail ramps and safe access solutions in various European rail stations will further solidify Portaramp's reputation as a trusted partner in the rail industry space.
Portaramp's journey to becoming the UK's leader in rail accessibility solutions exemplifies the power of innovation and dedication to inclusivity. With ramps installed across all counties in the UK, the company has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to bridging the accessibility gap for passengers with reduced mobility.
Now, as Portaramp extends its expertise to the European rail market, the company stands ready to support European rail companies in providing equal access and seamless travel experiences for all passengers.
Through collaboration, customisation, and compliance with legal obligations, Portaramp envisions a future where rail travel in Europe is synonymous with inclusivity.
By embracing Portaramp's cutting-edge solutions, European rail companies can join hands with the UK's leader in rail accessibility to create a railway network that truly serves every traveller, regardless of their abilities or mobility needs. Together, we embark on a journey towards an inclusive and connected future for European rail travel.
Take the first step towards improving accessible trains. Contact Portaramp today and discover how we can help you create inclusive and accessible train environments. Our team of experts specialise in providing customised solutions that comply with safety regulations while meeting your customers' specific needs.
Reach out to Portaramp now by calling +44 (0) 1953 681 799 or email our team ar sales@portaramp.co.uk. Let us help you create a railway system that prioritises inclusivity and accessibility. Together, we can make a difference.
