PAA Removal/LED Strip

Two Stage Alarm

In-Station Notification

Assistance Intercom

Problem DescriptionThe current emergency response system used on the Toronto Rocket subway cars is not ideal. As a result, activations of the system have lead to approximately 71.1 hours of delays along the YUS line in 2012 alone. The majority of these delays can be divided between:

•Non-intentional activations•Non-ideal responses•Human Error

Reducing Passenger-Initiated Delays on the Toronto SubwayM.  Mazzuca,  M.  Murphy,  T.  Kingsford,  T.  Ulph

•Plastic cover triggers local alarm; preventing accidental activations and allowing passenger to “undo” actions•Time delay activates system-wide alarm if passenger cannot complete second stage•Handle uses permanent ink to identify activator•Hazard striped improve visibility•Current placement complies with accessibility guidelines

•Allows direct verbal communication with passenger to understand current situation•Clearly marked “assistance” button allows for easy identification•Use of trained responder to properly address situations and use judgement to take correct course of action•Additional signage to promote use of assistance intercom instead of emergency system

•Reduction of accidental activations•Compliance with Accessibility Guidelines•Once alarm is activated, strip will light up red to indicate situation

•PA announcement advises passengers of incoming train with emergency; instructed to step back from platform•Backlit sign displays message to inform passengers of situation•Reduces additional time required to clear passengers from scene; leading to faster emergency response times

ObjectivesTo provide an effective solution the following conditions must be met:

•Minimize delays caused by passenger alarm activation•System applicable to whole fleet of Toronto Rocket Trains•Cost must be within TTC budget; cost effectiveness•Increase passenger awareness of emergency situations