Fire Safety in Transportation

Transportation hubs like train stations, bus terminals, and parking facilities are critical infrastructures that facilitate the movement of millions of people daily across the United Kingdom. Ensuring fire safety in these high-traffic areas is paramount to protect passengers, staff, and the structural integrity of the facilities. The unique design and function of transportation stations present specific challenges for fire protection, necessitating specialised strategies that comply with UK fire safety regulations.

Fire Protection Services for Transportation Stations

Implementing effective fire safety measures in transportation stations requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the specific risks associated with large, often crowded public spaces. Below are key protection services and strategies pertinent to these environments:

1. Passive Fire Protection

Structural Steel Protection: Transportation stations frequently utilise steel in their construction due to its strength and versatility. However, steel loses its load-bearing capacity at high temperatures. Applying intumescent coatings to steel elements in accordance with BS 8202 (Fire protection of steel structures) helps maintain structural integrity during a fire by insulating the steel and delaying heat transfer.

Fire-Resistant Barriers and Compartmentation: Dividing large open spaces into fire-resistant compartments slows the spread of fire and smoke, providing critical time for evacuation and firefighting efforts. Walls, floors, and ceilings can be reinforced with fire-resistant materials that are compliant with BS EN 1364 (Fire resistance tests for non-loadbearing elements). Proper compartmentation is crucial in complex structures like multi-level stations and underground facilities.

2. Fire Doors and Escape Routes

Fire-Rated Doors: Installing fire-rated doors at strategic points helps contain fires within designated areas. Doors should comply with BS 476 (Fire tests on building materials and structures) and be equipped with appropriate fire-rated hardware. In transportation hubs, these doors must balance safety with accessibility, ensuring they do not impede the flow of passengers during normal operations or emergencies.

3. Fire-Stopping and Service Penetrations

Sealing Gaps and Openings: Service installations like electrical conduits, plumbing, and ventilation systems create openings that can allow fire and smoke to spread. Utilising fire-stopping materials that conform to BS EN 1366 (Fire resistance tests for service installations) ensures that these penetrations are properly sealed without hindering the functionality of the services.

Cavity Barriers: In structures with voids or cavities, installing barriers prevents the unseen spread of fire. These barriers should be made of non-combustible materials and installed in accordance with BS 9991 (Fire safety in the design, management, and use of residential buildings) principles, adapted for public transportation facilities.

4. Surface Treatments and Fire-Resistant Materials

Intumescent Paints and Coatings: Applying intumescent coatings to walls, ceilings, and other surfaces can enhance fire resistance without altering the appearance of the facility. These coatings expand when exposed to heat, forming an insulating layer that protects the underlying material.

Non-Combustible Cladding and Finishes: Using materials classified as non-combustible under BS EN 13501 (Fire classification of construction products and building elements) reduces the fuel load within the station. This is particularly important for wall linings, ceiling tiles, and floor coverings in high-traffic areas.

Regulatory Compliance and Best Practices in the UK

Adherence to UK fire safety regulations is essential for transportation stations:

• Building Regulations Approved Document B (Fire Safety): Provides guidance on meeting the fire safety requirements of the Building Regulations, including means of escape, fire spread, structural fire protection, and firefighting access.
• Railway Safety Principles and Guidance: For train stations, compliance with guidelines set by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) and standards from Network Rail is necessary.
• Accessibility Compliance: Fire safety measures must also consider the needs of all users, including those with disabilities, in line with the Equality Act 2010 and guidance from BS 8300 (Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people).

At CLM Fireproofing, our mission is to deliver unparalleled fire safety solutions for transportation stations across the UK. Leverage our experience and specialised knowledge to enhance your fire protection strategies while ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Contact us today to schedule a detailed consultation and learn how our services in Passive Fire Protection, Fire Doors and  Compartmentation can help your facilities achieve optimal fire safety and operational resilience.