The International Union of Wagon Keepers (UIP) has expressed concerns regarding the Swiss Federal Office of Transport’s (FOT) decision to maintain certain national rail safety measures following conclusions adopted at European level. The discussion relates to measures agreed within the Joint Network Secretariat (JNS), which brings together the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) and national safety authorities.
In December 2025, the JNS unanimously adopted harmonised safety measures based on a joint risk assessment. The outcome underlined the strength of the existing European safety framework and called for consistent implementation across countries, rather than the introduction of additional national requirements.
According to UIP, Switzerland participated in the JNS process and did not formally oppose the conclusions during their adoption. The association subsequently noted that the FOT chose to retain specific national measures. While UIP views this as creating potential complexity for cross-border operators, the Swiss authority retains regulatory responsibility for rail safety within its national framework.
UIP states that differing national approaches can lead to operational and legal uncertainty, particularly for wagon keepers active in international freight traffic. At the same time, the association emphasises the importance of continued dialogue between ERA, national authorities and industry stakeholders to ensure that safety objectives are met while maintaining interoperability.
The organisation, which represents more than 250 wagon keepers across 14 European countries and a fleet exceeding 255,000 freight wagons, says it remains committed to constructive cooperation aimed at ensuring clarity and alignment in the application of rail safety rules across Europe.
