A joint initiative by the Rail Safety and Standards Board and ASLEF, the union of train drivers, will enable more people who are colour-blind to become train drivers
The ‘Ishihara Test’ is commonly used to test for colour vision deficiencies.
The test involves presenting a set of colored plates with hidden numbers or patterns within a field filled with dots. It identifies colour vision deficiency but does not indicate the severity of it. The test could be failed by people who have minor colour vision impairment, even though they can safely perform their role.
ASLEF requested that the RSSB research colour vision tests, as it was concerned about drivers being dismissed from their duties for failing the Ishihara Test due to a minor color vision defect. This did not affect their ability to safely perform their roles.
In its research, the RSSB identified a two-step method for colour vision assessment. The Ishihara screening test is still the primary test. To pass, you must have 100% correct answers.
Now, applicants who do not pass the test can take a more in-depth ‘Colour Assessment & Diagnosis Test’ to determine their specific colour vision deficit.
According to the RSSB, this new method could be used to assess the safety of nearly half (47%) the people who currently fail the Ishihara Test.
Luisa Moisio is the RSSB director of research. She said, “For many years, people who have minor colour blindness were not able to perform safety-critical tasks on railways. It could be considered discriminatory and a violation of equality laws if people with minor colour blindness are not given consideration for employment.
Our research identified a thorough test process that can be used to determine if someone is colour-blind and can safely play a certain role. Now we are changing the medical standards in order to implement this fairer testing system. This will give more people the opportunity to join our railway family,” Moisio said.
Mick Whelan said, “We are extremely happy with the success of the RSSB’s work, which we initiated, and then worked with RSSB to deliver.” This will allow those who are currently prohibited from driving trains the opportunity to fulfill their dreams.
The findings from this research has also informed the changes made to the Rail Industry Standard RIS-3789 TOM. RSSB announced that the revised standard would be published by March 2025.
