GSI-TOPSIS Method for Quantization of Railway Safety Situation Based on Incident and Accident Data

Abstract This study holds significant theoretical and practical importance for enhancing the safety management and operational efficiency of railway systems. Currently, there is a notable gap in standardized safety-level measurement methods across diverse railway operating entities. Conventional safety assessment approaches predominantly rely on qualitative analysis frameworks, which often fail to comprehensively address the multifaceted risk factors inherent in complex railway operating environments. To address these limitations, this study leverages historical operational data from participating railway companies to propose an advanced integrated quantitative methodology: the Global Safety Index (GSI)-Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. This innovative approach quantifies railway safety conditions by systematically analyzing incident and accident data, integrating statistical modeling frameworks, data imputation algorithms, and comprehensive analytical protocols. The method enables detailed examination and interpretation of large-scale operational datasets within railway systems. The implementation of this quantitative framework has demonstrated substantial improvements in the accuracy of safety performance metrics. Furthermore, it offers robust technical support for developing risk mitigation strategies and optimizing safety performance in the railway sector. By employing systematic risk factor identification and data-driven safety quantification, this approach facilitates accident prevention, enhances risk early-warning systems, and provides evidence-based decision-making support. As research progresses and the accessibility of Chinese railway safety data increases, the analytical precision of this methodology can be further refined. Future applications may include in-depth analyses of Chinese railway risk event datasets, thereby offering strong technical support for the continuous elevation of safety standards in China’s railway operations.