12 August 2026 Safety for ÖBB Staff: Minister Hanke commissions review of extending the alcohol consumption ban at major stations Mobility Minister visited train attendants and security team at Vienna Central Station – de-escalation training and ten-point plan showing effect

Federal Minister Peter Hanke visited Vienna Central Station today to observe the safety measures of the Austrian Raiolway Company (ÖBB) and engaged in discussions with train attendants, security staff, and those responsible for safety within the corporation. The focus was on the protection of those employees who ensure mobility across Austria on a daily basis. To enhance this protection, Minister Hanke commissioned ÖBB to review the extension of the alcohol consumption ban at high-traffic stations.

“The people who work at ÖBB enable mobility for all of us. They deserve a workplace where they feel safe. Every single attack on an ÖBB employee is one too many,” emphasised Minister Peter Hanke.

Clearer rules reduce discussions and create more enforceability

About one-sixth of safety-related reports at ÖBB stations are related to alcohol consumption. The current house rules prohibit “excessive” alcohol consumption. At a total of nine stations, there is a complete ban on alcohol consumption throughout the station area. Recently, such a regulation was introduced at Vienna West Station, and the feedback from employees on site is very positive, according to ÖBB.

Minister Hanke has two reasons for supporting an alcohol consumption ban at high-frequency stations, where the majority of safety-related incidents occur: First, the protection of employees who need clear rules instead of interpretative questions while on duty. Secondly, the expectation that stations remain places of encounter where everyone feels comfortable – whether commuters on their way to work or families heading on holiday.

Therefore, Minister Peter Hanke has commissioned ÖBB to examine the expansion of the alcohol consumption ban at major stations.

“We must provide employees with clear, unambiguous rules they can rely on. Rules that enable swift and secure actions in the event of a serious situation, rather than discussions about interpretative questions,” the Minister explains. The goal is greater operational security for staff and reduced potential for escalation in daily operations.“

Ten-point plan is being consistently implemented

Also discussed during the visit was the current implementation status of the ten-point plan, jointly developed by ÖBB, BMIMI, BMI, social partners, and other stakeholders. Key measures include intensified cooperation with the police, widespread use of body cameras, uniform recording of incidents of violence, and increased personnel presence at key locations.

The plan provides the collective framework for prevention, early danger detection, and rapid intervention during violent incidents. For Peter Hanke, it is clear: “Consistent implementation of the ten-point plan is a crucial element in preventing attacks on our employees and sustainably increasing their safety. The progress made so far shows that the measures are effective. At the same time, it is clear: We must not relent in protecting our employees. I therefore expect all responsible parties to continue on this path with the same determination and commitment.