Level crossings are among the most critical points in railway operations. They represent the direct intersection between rails and urban or rural roads, places where trains, vehicles, pedestrians, and even animals share the same physical space. This intersection of different flows inevitably becomes a point of constant attention for concessionaires and regulatory agencies.

The risk isn't just theoretical. It involves everyday situations involving distracted drivers, hurried pedestrians, or even the unpredictability of stray animals. A simple lapse in perception or rushing to cross can turn a routine scene into an accident.

This text aims to demonstrate how intelligent monitoring, which combines technology, real-time analysis, and artificial intelligence, can be a key ally in preventing accidents in these scenarios. More than just reinforcing existing protocols, it expands response capacity and brings transparency to one of the most sensitive aspects of railway operations.

The challenge of level crossings

Railroad crossings harbor risk factors that go beyond the simple interaction between rails and highways. In many cases, heavy vehicle traffic adds to the distraction of drivers and pedestrians, who don't always notice a train approaching. In rural areas, stray animals exacerbate the situation, as do the lack of adequate signage or failure to follow safety regulations. Environmental factors, such as fog or heavy rain, also reduce visibility and increase the risk of human error.

According to the International Union of Railways (UIC), more than 90% of accidents at level crossings worldwide involve human error. In Brazil, according to data from ANTT and the National Transport Confederation, hundreds of incidents are recorded every year at these locations. This shows that, even in a country with significant investment in signaling, the risks remain high.

Another important aspect is that traditional signaling, whether visual, audible, or barrier-based, is not sufficient to prevent violations. Last-second attempts to cross or distracted pedestrians are classic examples of errors that cannot be prevented with static systems alone. The problem lies precisely in the unpredictability of human behavior, coupled with the physical limitations of conventional equipment.

The false sense of safety at these points

One of the biggest enemies of level crossing safety is the false sense of safety. Many believe the risk is low, especially in areas with less traffic or during quieter times. This misperception leads to negligence and paves the way for incidents. After all, low train frequency doesn't mean there's no risk.

Physical barriers also contribute to this overconfidence. When they're up, drivers and pedestrians believe there's no immediate danger, but unexpected situations can occur, from mechanical failures to sudden changes in the train schedule. This blind trust in barriers or the absence of visible trains results in risky choices.

Furthermore, environmental risks cannot be ignored. Rain, landslides or animals accessing the road can turn a point considered safe into a critical scenario.

How intelligent monitoring works at level crossings

Intelligent monitoring stands out precisely because it overcomes the limitations of traditional systems. It can be defined as the integration of video analytics with artificial intelligence algorithms capable of identifying abnormal situations and issuing automatic alerts in real time. This increases visibility into what's happening at level crossings and anticipates risks before they become accidents.

In practice, this type of system can detect vehicles or pedestrians on the tracks at critical moments, such as when a train is approaching. It can also identify attempts to cross when the barriers are already closed, triggering alerts to operators or the control center. This immediate response increases the margin of reaction for both the railway and those on site.

Another important function is supporting investigations. Stored images and records provide visual evidence of incidents, aiding audits, training, and even legal proceedings. Monitoring can extend beyond the line itself to nearby slopes and embankments, anticipating environmental risks that directly impact level crossings.

Practical examples of application

Imagine a pedestrian crossing the street distractedly, wearing headphones, and unaware of the audible warning of an approaching train. Intelligent monitoring can recognize this presence and issue alerts that reduce the risk of an accident. 

Another common example is vehicles stuck on the tracks due to traffic jams. The system can identify that the vehicle is stopped in a dangerous location and immediately notify the control center, allowing contingency measures to be taken before the train approaches. 

Similarly, large animals accessing the railway, such as cattle or horses, can be detected, preventing collisions that not only put lives at risk but also interrupt operations for hours. Each of these examples demonstrates that technology not only records events but also actively prevents them.

Benefits for railway safety

The benefits for railway safety are significant. The first and most obvious is the reduction in accidents and incidents involving third parties. Technology acts preventively, increasing response capacity and reducing the risk of unforeseen events and situations that can spiral out of control, from negligent behavior to environmental risks.

Another benefit is visibility for operators and managers. With intelligent monitoring, the railway now has a real-time overview of what's happening at each level crossing. This allows for the identification of risk patterns, prioritization of investments, and the making of strategic decisions based on concrete data.

Furthermore, the system contributes to transparency with regulatory and oversight bodies, providing visual evidence for training, audits, and investigations. This feature strengthens the railway's institutional image, demonstrating a genuine commitment to safety. In the railway sector, where reputation and reliability are essential, adopting smart monitoring technology is also a strategic decision.

Conclusion

Level crossings are critical areas that require extra attention. The combination of different flows of trains, vehicles, pedestrians, and animals makes these points vulnerable, and any failure can have serious consequences. Therefore, the mere presence of barriers or signs is not enough: it's necessary to go further.

Smart monitoring doesn't replace existing signage or protocols, but it significantly increases the effectiveness and speed of response. It provides an additional layer of protection, transforming visual data into actionable alerts that save lives and preserve operations.

Investing in technology is, ultimately, investing in lives, reputation, and the continuity of railway operations. For concessionaires and managers, this is a choice that combines social responsibility, operational efficiency, and a strategic vision for the future of the sector.

About ALTAVE

ALTAVE offers intelligent monitoring solutions that increase safety in critical operations, protecting people, assets, and processes. By combining cutting-edge technology with automated analysis, it is possible to identify risk situations in real time and prevent accidents before they happen.

With real-time monitoring, intuitive dashboards and 24/7 support, ALTAVE contributes to operational safety and the protection of lives and essential resources. The company has patented technologies in Brazil and abroad, and is present around the world, serving sectors such as Defense and Security, Energy, Mining, Ports, Agribusiness and Oil and Gas. 

Recognized for its strategic relevance, ALTAVE is accredited as a Strategic Defense Company by the Brazilian Ministry of Defense and a supplier to Petrobras.

Let's have a chat? 

Contact us to learn more about how our solution can help your company!