The Brussels public transport operator STIB has banned the consumption of alcohol on its network, as part of several measures to improve safety.
The operator aims to improve the sense of security by specifying improper, sanctionable behaviour and the powers of security officers, and encouraging a more pleasant atmosphere among passengers.
"Respecting the rules is essential, not only for your own safety but also for the safety of others. These new rules clarify good and bad behaviour in a transparent way," said STIB CEO Brieuc de Meeûs.
"It is a tool to prevent incidents and promote a more pleasant atmosphere, but it is also a regulatory basis that will enable our staff to sanction inappropriate behaviour in public transport more quickly."
Updating the rules
The Brussels government's current decree (13 December 2007) lays down the rules passengers must abide by when using STIB infrastructure and vehicles. Now, the authorities have approved amendments and updates to that draft decree.
In addition to the ban on alcohol consumption, it is also forbidden to disturb public order or security by occupying more than one seat or by blocking entrances, exits and escalators.
Additionally, passengers must put their luggage or backpack or any objects they are holding on the ground if they pose a risk of dirtying or injuring someone. Begging in vehicles, at stops and in stations is also prohibited if it is done in an intrusive or aggressive manner.
Credit: Belga
The previous decree stated that it was forbidden to disturb passengers using unwanted physical contact, but the amended version goes further. It forbids "unwanted behaviour with sexual connotations, expressed physically, verbally or non-verbally, which has the purpose or effect of affecting the dignity of a person and, in particular, creates an intimidating, hostile, insulting, humiliating or offensive environment."
Disturbing public order or personal safety through the use of drugs and alcohol has been added to the current ban that only mentions being under the influence.
"Everyone must be able to feel comfortable, welcome and safe on the entire STIB network," said Brussels Mobility Minister Elke Van den Brandt. "That is why, in addition to the new arrangements on the ground (increased presence of security teams and social patrols at stations to support the voluntary sector), which will be operational in the coming months, STIB has clarified its rules."
"The rules are now clearer for all STIB users, have been adapted to the new problematic behaviour identified on the network and leave no doubt as to the interpretation of improper behaviour by staff."
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The amended text also clarifies and expands the powers of security staff so that they can sanction behaviour that endangers passengers' safety or negatively affects their journey. The clarifications strengthen the position of staff by reducing the scope for ambiguity.
To improve the safety of users and STIB staff, the new decree also empowers security staff to issue fines to those who fail to comply with transport rules within a 15-metre radius of STIB infrastructure. Finally, the amounts of the administrative fines have been revised and clarified. This takes into account the offender's age and whether or not they are a repeat offender.
The new transport regulations will be in place by summer.
