Passengers’ perceived ability to get out safely from an underground train station in an emergency situation

Many recent studies have been done on the development of evacuation systems and plans. There are also several studies on human behaviour in fire. However, little research has been done to understand how peoples’ likely behaviour relates to their perceived ability to get out safely during an emergency, especially in a major transport hub like an underground train station. This study explores the beliefs and perceptions of 1134 train passengers and finds that those who report that they are likely to move to the exit immediately, wait for directions from the station staff, wait at assembly areas, help others with difficulties, choose the least crowded exit and/or use the escalators to get out also report that they expect to get out safely. In contrast, passengers who report that they are likely to do nothing and/or push others if necessary also report that they are less likely to get out safely.

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