In the wake of a fatal attack on a train conductor in Rhineland-Palatinate, Deutsche Bahn has intensified its training efforts for staff members who work directly with passengers. These self-assertion seminars aim to equip train conductors and ticket inspectors with the knowledge and skills to manage difficult encounters and de-escalate conflicts before they escalate into violence. The initiative acknowledges the reality that conductors often face abusive behavior while performing their duties on trains, raising concerns about their safety and well-being.

Stephanie Jakob, a train conductor who has experienced various forms of aggression from passengers, underscored the importance of the training programs. After a tumultuous start to her career filled with threats and physical altercations, she recognized the need for self-defense training as part of her preparation for the job. Although her current full-time work schedule makes it challenging to maintain regular self-defense classes, she values the mandatory self-assertion seminars provided by Deutsche Bahn, which allow her colleagues to periodically refresh their skills and knowledge on how to handle conflicts effectively.

The courses last seven hours and cover various strategies that emphasize prevention and conflict resolution. This proactive approach not only aims to empower employees but also enhances the overall safety of trains, benefitting both staff and passengers alike. Ensuring the safety of conductors is crucial for maintaining a reliable public transport system, especially as instances of aggression in public transport settings continue to rise and call for better protective measures.