DB Regio records 989 assaults on train conductors in the first half of the year – Federal government reviews higher penalties

The regional rail subsidiary further stated that the incidents had been recorded particularly frequently in individual service areas. In this context, DB Regio cited, among other things, burdens on staff and disruptions to operational procedures.

Background to the figures

Federal Transport Minister Steffen Bilger responded to the figures presented by announcing deliberations within the federal government on higher penalties for attacks on public transport personnel. As a comparison, he cited the existing regulations for attacks on emergency personnel.

"We will examine whether we can align the penalties for attacks on public transport employees with the regulations for attacks on emergency personnel," Bilger said, according to a statement from his ministry. This would take account of the growing pressure on train staff.

Reaction of the federal government

Deutsche Bahn had pointed out a rise in assaults on employees several times in recent years. In addition to physical attacks, verbal threats and property damage are also recorded. The unions repeatedly called for tougher protective measures.

From the company's perspective, train conductors in regional transport are particularly at risk because they are often the only immediate points of contact for passengers in the carriage. Conflicts over tickets, house rules or alcohol consumption repeatedly lead to escalating situations, it said.

The federal government had already expanded the protection of public sector employees in earlier legislative procedures. Bilger announced that he would bring the issue into the ongoing consultations between the ministries. A specific draft law was not initially named.

DB Regio's measures

DB Regio also announced that it would continue training staff in handling conflict situations and expand the deployment of security personnel in individual regions. Video surveillance on trains is also to be further expanded.

Experts point out that the recording of such incidents at Deutsche Bahn has been methodologically refined in recent years, which limits the comparability of earlier figures. Nevertheless, they consider the trend of increasing burdens on train staff to be established.

For the coming months, DB Regio expects the trend to continue, according to its own figures. The company appealed to passengers to treat staff with respect and to consistently report assaults.