7 major Japan train operators do not discipline driver error, some adopt self-reporting
TOKYO -- Seven major railway operators in Japan do not impose disciplinary action for driver error under their internal systems, a survey by the Mainichi Shimbun has revealed as the country marks two decades since a derailment that killed over 100 people.
Following the deadly crash of a JR Fukuchiyama Line train 20 years ago, West Japan Railway Co. (JR West)'s punitive guidance of crew members who made mistakes was viewed as a problem
Some operators who say they do not have a no-punishment policy are also taking a flexible approach, meaning that railway companies are focusing on providing an environment where mistakes can be shared internally to enhance safety measures.
The survey, conducted from March to April, targeted 31 major railway companies operating in urban areas, focusing on how they handle accidents, operational mishaps and other issues caused by human error. Out of the 29 companies that responded, seven reported having systems in place that do not treat such errors as grounds for disciplinary action.
Tokyo-based Tokyu Railways stated, "We do not hold individuals accountable for human errors that are reported swiftly and accurately." Fukuoka City Transportation Bureau commented, "By creating an environment that facilitates voluntary reporting, safety guidance and education will be more effective, helping prevent recurrences."
Conversely, among companies that do not have such systems, Tokyo-based Seibu Railway Co. assesses disciplinary actions on a case-by-case basis, depending on the nature and circumstances of the human error. Osaka-based Hanshin Electric Railway Co. stated they "collect small pieces of information daily to eliminate potential accidents," highlighting their commitment to risk management.
Prior to the derailment accident, JR West conducted a "day shift training program" for crew members who made errors such as overrunning the train. It is said that the program was meant to "make an example" of the crew members by forcing them to write letters of remorse, among other such actions. The now-defunct Aircraft and Railway Accidents Investigation Commission under the transport ministry identified excessive speed by the driver as a cause of the 2005 accident, and noted that "strict management of drivers may have been a contributing factor."
Post-accident, JR West removed minor errors from disciplinary measures, and in 2016 introduced a system that excludes punishment even in the event of an accident. However, even among companies that do not impose disciplinary measures, exceptions are made for cases involving malice or intentional misconduct.
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