ARRIVA has attempted to allay rail union fears over safety ahead of a national firefighters strike.
The RMT has said it may instruct its members to stay away from work unless they receive guarantees over the level of cover on strike days.
The union has asked Arriva Trains Northern and Tyne and Wear Metro operator Nexus to carry out a thorough risk assessment before the first firefighters strike planned for October 29.
Last night Ray Price, managing director of ATN, said: "We would never compromise the safety of our customers and employees.
"We have carried out initial risk assessments and checked all fire precaution arrangements and have contingency plans in place to enable us to run a normal service during any action.
"We will be discussing these plans with the rail unions this week.
"A full risk assessment and final decision on service provision can though only be finalised once confirmation of the Government's contingency plans for fire service cover is received."
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