Bangkok Sky Train - Rules and Safety Tips

BTS operates one of the world’s safest mass transit systems, and we are proud to have handled over 50 million passenger trips with no loss of life or injury. We are dedicated to implementing strict safety codes throughout our system, all BTS SkyTrain and stations are equipped with emergency features, and we have a handbook on rules, regulations and emergency procedures available to all passengers.

As a high-capacity public transport system, commuter safety is one of our paramount concerns. Our excellent safely record is based on a modern operating system containing high-standard equipment and numerous safety features, a strict adherence of our staff to all operational and maintenance procedures, rigorous staff training and regular maintenance. With our strict safety features, we aim to set the standard for safety for any modern mass transit system.

Every train is equipped with an Automatic Train Protection system that ensures all trains maintain a safe distance from one another and remain within proper speed limits. Automatic doors have features to prevent passenger injuries. In case of emergency, passengers can communicate with the drivers cab via Passenger Intercom system, while the Train Radio enables the driver to contact the BTS Control Center at all times. In case of fire, trains are equipped with fire extinguishers. Importantly, all trains are built using tested non-flammable materials, designed to prevent fires from spreading or overwhelming the train cars with harmful smoke. Emergency evacuation is conducted through the exits located at the front and back end of each train.

Each station was designed using strict safety codes and features an emergency exit, a Public Announcement (PA) system to convey any emergency warning, a fire protection system in line with the standards of the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), USA, and lightning absorption equipment. In addition each station is equipped with a closed-circuit TV system and a central Control Panel to regulate station escalators and elevator. The Control Panel can be used to stop trains and control its doors in case of emergency.

We tested our system for 6 months prior to starting operations in order to check for any flaws in safety. Since the start of our operations we constantly test and drill our staff on safety and emergency procedures. We have three levels of operational readiness, the ‘Normal Operations’ level, the ‘Degraded Operations’ level and the ‘Emergency Operations’ level. In case of emergency, we have procedures in place to coordinate operations with the police, the fire department and local hospitals.

1. The Street Level of the station features closed-circuit TV cameras to monitor street traffic and the passengers entering and exiting the system.
2. The Concourse Level - Closed-circuit TV cameras located by every escalator to monitor commuter safety
- Fire alarm system with fire extinguishers
- Public Announcement (PA) system to relay information and any emergency warning
- Rooms for sick passengers equipped with first aid kits, a cot and a bed
- Police and security guards, always on duty
- Emergency exits

3. The Platform Level features the following:
- Closed-circuit TV cameras
- Emergency fire extinguishers with hose, water and fire-retardant foam
- Public Announcement (PA) system to relay information and any emergency warning
- Emergency phone located on the pole next to the PA system
- Security guard on each platform, stationed at all times
- Yellow line near platform edge for commuter safety

Each station was designed using strict safety codes and features an emergency exit, a Public Announcement (PA) system to convey any emergency warning, a fire protection system in line with the standards of the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), USA, and lightning absorption equipment. In addition each station is equipped with a closed-circuit TV system and a central Control Panel to regulate station escalators and elevator. The Control Panel can be used to stop trains and control its doors in case of emergency.

Emergency Instructions

In case of emergency, all passengers are advised to follow the following procedures:

• If you’re on the train and an emergency situation, such as a fire, takes place, contact the driver immediately by using the yellow button with a bell symbol located on the side of the door. Press the button, then release and wait for driver to reply.
• The Emergency Door Control is located on the side of each door. Pull the control and slide to open the door in case of emergency when the train is standing in the station.
• Emergency exits are located at the front and back end of each train. Walk through the train towards either exit.
• Fire extinguisher with instructions is located by the entrance to the drivers cab
• Emergency stop button can be used to stop the train in the event a passenger falls onto the tracks or a similar emergency situation.
• Evacuation route is a pathway along the tracks leading to the stairs onto the station platform.
• Never come close to or touch the third rail when on tracks during an emergency evacuation. Electrical pressure meter is used to measure the power of the electrical current of the third rail. Ground equipment is used for safety when walking along the track.
• In case of emergency on the concourse or platform, press the emergency button.
  If you witness any suspicious or criminal activity, contact station staff or a security guard immediately.
• Use emergency equipment only in case of actual emergency. Anyone misusing emergency equipment will be prosecuted.

In case of emergency, please remain calm and follow the instructions of the BTS staff.

1. When using the escalators, stand on the right side, walk on the left.
2. Do not lean on the side of the escalator or sit on its rail. Do not block the escalator entry or exit ways. Do not put your head, or anything other than your hand, on the rail. Do not run or play on the escalator or stairs.
3. BTS escalators are faster than normal escalators, so please use them with caution. Hold on to the rails. In case of emergency, press the Stop button and notify the security guard.
4. For the disabled or those otherwise unable to use the stairs or escalator, an elevator is available at some stations. Please press the button for assistance from our staff.
5 Do not overload the elevator and do not use in case of fire.
6. Press the button for assistance if there is any problem inside the elevator.

1. When getting on and off the trains, please watch your step and mind the gap between train and platform.
2. Do not go down onto the track to retrieve any fallen items or belongings. Please notify the security guard, who will assist you with this. If it is not possible to retrieve a fallen item during regular service hours, we will retrieve it later and notify you within 24 hours.
3. Do not play or push anyone on the platform. If you witness anyone fall onto the tracks, press the Emergency button, located on the pole next to the PA system, and notify the security guard or other BTS staff at once.