Safety and Security: Developing a Cooperative Process to Meet the Public Transportation Challenge

Abstract

Public transit systems are faced with a dual challenge in today's security-conscious operating environment. They must continue to monitor and respond to the needs of their riders by offering easy accessibility, on-time service, and adherence to the highest of safety standards. At the same time, public transit authorities must maintain a secure environment for passengers, their workforce, equipment and facilities. This presents a formidable challenge, especially for smaller transit entities with limited resources.

A method for determining rider perceptions of the safety and security policies of their transit provider is presented. This provides a method for the transit provider to determine rider perceptions and identify opportunities for enhancing rider awareness. The suggested process also provides transit personnel with a means for identifying gaps in their existing safety and security procedures, leading to the ability to improve their safety and security posture.