SECURITY SYSTEMS
Securing rail infrastructure:
The role of advanced door systems in enhancing safety and efficiency
» BRIAN SOFLEY, MANAGING Director of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland
Railway stations host vast numbers of people every day, and the number of people choosing train travel has increased dramatically in recent years. More than 1.6 billion passenger journeys were made on national rail services in the UK in 2023 / 24, which was a 20 % increase from the previous year. 1
Railway stations experience a high amount of passenger traffic, with peak times placing even greater pressure on infrastructure. Some key considerations include the placement and functionality of doors, which directly influence the speed and ease of movement. Doors may be equipped with automatic opening systems, or hold-open capabilities which ensure people can move freely through crowded spaces while reducing bottlenecks that not only lead to delays but also frustration.
For passenger convenience and accessibility, it’ s essential that door systems meet inclusivity standards. Doors should be easy for everyone to navigate, from families with pushchairs to passengers with mobility challenges. By prioritising clear signage, wide doorways and step-free access, rail stations can enhance the experience for all passengers, ensuring everyone benefits from the accessibility of the space.
Door durability
Durable door hardware is crucial, elements like hinges, latches and handles must resist frequent handling and maybe even occasional impact, as well as the added strain of heavy passenger traffic.
Emergency exit doors are particularly vulnerable to both wear and tear and potential tampering. These exits must be secure yet ready to open instantly when needed. Emergency doors in rail stations are often fitted with push bars or touch sensitive access control that not only offer a reliable means of escape but are also designed to be secure in urgent situations.
Fire safety and compliance
The rail sector must adhere to stringent fire safety codes to protect passengers and staff in case of emergency. Fire-rated doors are essential to these efforts, serving as barriers that prevent the spread of smoke and flames between sections of the stations.
Properly maintained fire doors should always close completely and fit snugly within their frames. If these components are compromised, its effectiveness can be reduced, highlighting the importance of routine maintenance checks to keep them in optimal condition.
A bespoke approach
Each railway station has its own unique requirements, demanding a tailored package of internal and external doors to meet operational, security and, safety needs.
For internal applications, fire-compliant Safeguard timber doors offer a blend of aesthetic appeal and robust performance. These doors are meticulously engineered to meet LPS 1175 security standards, achieving SR3 and SR4 classifications, which denote their ability to withstand targeted, sustained attack scenarios. These timber doors can be customised in a range of finishes and styles to complement the architectural character of each station.
SMARTec timber doors are also ideal for
Sources: 1 https:// www. statista. com / statistics / 304957 / total-historical-national-rail-passenger-journeys-in-the-unitedkingdom-uk /#:~: text = In % 20the % 20fiscal % 20year % 202023, made % 20in % 20the % 20previous % 20period. internal applications, they have a Severe Resistance Duration and are available in a wide range of finishes; developed and independently tested in accordance with British and European standards and are registered with Secured by Design.
For external or higher-security areas, Powershield steel security doors deliver unparalleled strength and durability. These doors are rigorously tested to meet the stringent criteria of LPS 1175( issue 8), offering advanced protection against both determined opportunists and premeditated attacks. Their robust construction ensures long-term resilience in challenging environments, such as areas exposed to harsh weather or heavy use.
These door systems are designed with versatility in mind, allowing for the integration of advanced locking mechanisms, access control systems, and fire-resistant features where required.
Utilising BIM for the golden thread
ASSA ABLOY’ s Openings Studio™ is a BIM software solution, that supports the specification process and beyond, by creating digital 3D models of tailored door frame and hardware solutions, which can be incorporated within the building model or viewed using the door visualisation tool.
Contractors can access specifications for quality inspections, ensuring door systems are installed to meet the intended standards, reinforcing the golden thread and supporting ongoing maintenance and operational needs.
Utilising BIM for system specification, installation, and fire door testing, offers a range of benefits. The rail infrastructure remains resilient, passenger experience is enhanced, and compliance is ensured, meeting fire safety, accessibility and security requirements with a fully traceable record of decisions and specifications.
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FEBRUARY 2025
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