UNION HEAVY WEIGHTS TACKLE QLD'S UNSAFE RAIL CROSSINGS

The Transport Workers' Union will today meet with the Queensland Rail, Tram and Bus Union in an urgent bid to come up with preventative safety measures for QLD rail crossings.

The meeting comes following three recent fatalities at level crossings in North Queensland.

TWU Branch Secretary Hughie Williams said, "This loss of life at Queensland rail crossings needs to stop."

"The community, train drivers, truck drivers and the greater public are deeply affected by these level crossing fatalities."

Mr Williams said, "All Queensland level crossings should contain the appropriate safety signs and devices despite the cost."

Following the meeting the TWU and the Rail, Tram and Bus Union will call for an urgent meeting with QLD Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt and Minister for Transport John Mickel to fast track safety improvements to Queensland rail crossings.

Mr Williams said, "We can't wait six to 12 months before improvements are made."

"People's lives are at risk."