Dutch rail operator NS to pilot batons for enforcement officers
The NS, the Netherlands’ national rail operator, reported Monday it has launched a pilot allowing some enforcement officers to carry batons, citing a rise in violent incidents in and around trains. Of its 680 enforcement officers, 75 will receive training in the coming weeks.
The trial involves employees from the Safety & Service department based in Rotterdam, The Hague, Zwolle, and ’s-Hertogenbosch. These officers assist passengers with travel-related questions, respond when colleagues request assistance, and conduct safety checks in areas where disturbances are expected.
During the upcoming training period, officers will be instructed on proper baton use, including when its use is permitted and when it is not.
NS expects that by the end of April, the first officers will carry batons while on duty. The pilot will run for one year, after which the company will evaluate its impact on workplace safety. To further improve safety, all chief conductors will be issued body cameras this year.
NS said it received approval last year from the Ministry of Justice and Security to allow enforcement officers to carry the short baton. The company said the one-year pilot is intended to assess whether carrying and using the baton improves both the effectiveness and safety of its officers’ work.
Since the COVID-19 period, the number of incidents has risen sharply. Last year, 1,132 cases of aggression against NS employees were recorded. In 2024, that number was 1,095. “That is completely unacceptable,” said Itai Birger, director of social safety at NS.
In addition, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, together with ProRail, has developed an action plan to improve station safety. A budget of 20 million euros has been allocated for the effort.
