[nemo44x]

The MTA is currently working on a solution that doesn't use barriers. [1] The short of it is that it will use thermal cameras and other sensors to determine if a human (and not a rat, for instance) has entered the tracks and is in danger.

It won't kill the trains but slow them down considerably and of course if it's a last second jumper or someone who falls right as the train is entering the station it won't work. But I imagine it will help solve a majority of the issues.

If you're nervous for your safety then I would recommend to stand on the far end of the platform where the front of the train stops at the station.

[1] http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/mta-testing-systems-save...