Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 108 THE door industry journal spring 2025 Doorsets, Fire Doors, Safety & Security 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, discusses the importance of securing rail environments with the correct door systems in order to ensure smooth operations and protect passengers and staff. 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 Rail environments present a unique set of security requirements and the high flow of passengers demands door systems that facilitate movement without compromising on safety or security. The scale and complexity of the sector demands door solutions that go beyond basic functionality, offering security as well as resilience. With this in mind, what considerations should be given to access control, fire door safety and compliance in the rail sector? Passenger flow Railway stations experience a high amount of passenger traffic, with peak times placing even greater pressure on infrastructure, which means there’s a heightened need for balancing security and efficiency at every entry and exit. 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 Doors and emergency exits ensure constant use, sometimes up to thousands of cycles per day. 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. Maintaining fire doors in operational condition is an ongoing requirement. Regular inspections are vital in ensuring that these doors and their hardware continue to function as intended. 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.
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