Work is progressing to ensure trains in Sussex are fitted with a new warning system by next spring.
Operators South Central and Connex South East are spending thousands on modifying existing trains to take the train protection warning system (TPWS).
The system automatically applies the brakes on a train if it passes a red danger signal.
TPWS involves track sensors working in conjunction with the trains.
It is believed TPWS would prevent 80 per cent of cases involving signals passed at danger.
The companies were required to make amendments to their existing trains by introducing new couplings to the slam-door stock by the end of the year.
Instead, they have pledged to introduce the new safety system on all trains by the end of March next year.
The safety amendments required by the end of this year stipulated a cup and cone device on the couplings to stop carriages riding over each other in the case of a head-on collision.
But the operators are committed to accelerating the introduction of TPWS as it increases safety for passengers and staff.
All trains due to be delivered by the end of 2004 to replace the slam-door stock will be fitted with TPWS.
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