Headquarters of the Railway Protection Guard

The Railway Protection Guard (SOK) is a Polish uniformed service responsible for ensuring safety on railway infrastructure and rolling stock. It operates under the Railway Transport Act of 2003, which requires railway operators to designate their own protection units. As a uniformed formation, SOK carries out a range of duties, including monitoring compliance with regulations, protecting life and health, and combating crime in railway areas. The history of SOK dates back to 1918, when the first Railway Guard was established. Over the years, the service underwent various transformations and reported to different state authorities until the current structure was created under the 1997 law. SOK officers, recognized as public officials, are authorized to use direct coercive measures, and their responsibilities are similar to those of the police. In 2022, SOK joined the international organization Railpol, enhancing its significance on the international stage. Cooperation with other services, such as the Police and Border Guard, is crucial for SOK’s effective operation, especially given the growing number of railway passengers in Poland. SOK also engages in educational activities and breeds and trains service dogs. In terms of architecture, SOK safeguards not only railway infrastructure but also buildings associated with its use. Interestingly, despite the relatively low number of officers compared to the length of railway lines, their maintenance and preventive competencies make them highly effective in improving safety in railway transport.