The Minister for Infrastructure, David O'Byrne, has used the beginning of National Rail Safety Week to remind all Tasmanians to exercise care around rail the state's railways.

National Rail Safety Week began yesterday, and runs until Sunday August 19^th, with Tasrail again running radio, television and cinema ads promoting safety around railways .

Mr O'Byrne said there had been a significant decrease in both the number of near misses reported by Tasrail train drivers - 69 this financial year, compared to 118 the previous year - and the number of vehicle collisions - 2 last financial year, compared with seven the year before.

"While this is encouraging, there is no room for complacency - one life lost in an accident at our railway crossings is one too many," he said.

"Tasmanians need to be aware of the very real risks of unsafe behaviour around our railways.

"This year's campaign focuses on safety at railway crossings and the importance of heeding railway crossing warnings. Statistics show that engineering solutions alone will not eliminate collisions, nor change driver behaviour. 

"Inattention and reckless behaviour around railway crossings could cost your life, or the life of someone very close to you - and I would urge all Tasmanians to behave safely around our railway crossings."

Mr O'Byrne is also encouraging Tasmanians to remember the trauma caused to railway workers from such incidents. 

"It impacts health and wellbeing and is harmful to their quality of life, it affects their relationships and it is something that many never overcome.  Ultimately the family members of the train drivers also end up paying a price," he said.

More information about rail safety can be found at www.tracksafefoundation.com.au  and more information on National Rail Safety Week is available at www.ara.net.au