Used syringes have become a very real occupational hazard on Luxembourg’s trains. When questioned by the MP Marc Goergen (Piraten), the minister for transport and public works, Yuriko Backes (DP) reveals in a parliamentary response published on Tuesday 1 September, it emerged that around 940 syringes that had not been disposed of properly are found each year on CFL trains.

However, not all of them are linked to drug use. According to data provided by the railway company, around 60% are insulin syringes or hypodermic needles intended for medical use. The remaining 40% are single-use syringes, mainly used by people with drug dependencies.

The problem has already led to eight workplace accidents since 2023. Employees of CFL or external contractors have been injured by discarded syringes, putting them at risk of infection.

Specialised training for staff

To minimise such incidents, CFL has, since the end of July, installed drip trays in the toilets of five Series 2200 railcars. A total of ten trains are to be fitted as part of a pilot scheme lasting up to 12 months. The parliamentary response does not specify the lines on which these trains operate.

The collection bins are emptied by the Cleaning Department. The staff involved have received specific training and been provided with protective equipment. The scheme is designed to assess whether these bins reduce the number of syringes left behind during cleaning and maintenance.

No collectors of this type are currently installed elsewhere on public transport. Any extension to RGTR buses or Luxtram will depend on the conclusions drawn by the CFL following the trial.