Fire Safety In Rail
Assisting you in implementing effective fire safety measures and advancing projects by clearly defining fire safety responsibilities among operating companies and aligning various stakeholders, all while prioritising the uninterrupted continuity of railway services.
Understanding Industry Dynamics and Operational Challenges
CLARIFYING INFRASTRUCTURE OWNERSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITY SPLIT
When it comes to managing and implementing fire safety measures in Rail, the primary challenge is the complexity of stakeholder responsibility definition. Fire Safety responsibilities might be split between the track, the train and the station safety and those companies that own, lease or operate the infrastructure. Clear definition of responsibilities and owners is where we start every project. Having this defined enables effective decision-making and fast progress.
ACHIEVING BUY-IN FROM MULTIPLE TEAMS
Even when the responsibility split is clear, achieving alignment and buy-in from the front line staff, project teams and contracting parties is fundamental to facilitating effective implementation of fire safety measures. Having on-the-ground experience and know-how allows us to effectively communicate the need for change and work together with multiple parties to define the best way to implement the measures that keep people and property safe from fire.
PRIORITISING CONTINUITY OF RAIL SERVICE AT ALL TIMES
We fully understand the impact of Rail disruptions on the public, business and train operating companies and always follow the motto: Trains must run with no interruption. We collaborate with rail operating companies to establish effective fire safety measures that ensure exactly that. When fire safety work needs to take place, we coordinate with stakeholders to implement these safety measures seamlessly, without disruption to service.
Anticipating And Managing Fire Risks
There are a variety of fire hazards within railway stations, including some that are not necessarily within the reasonable control of the station building owner. It is typical for the railway stations to experience:
Electrical systems and equipment fires
Arson
Track fires
Fires from emerging technology (e-scooters and lithium ion batteries)
Should a fire start, and spread, passengers and employees need to evacuate safely. Railway stations are complex environments, escape routes, evacuation plan and associated fire safety measures need to be carefully thought out and effectively managed. Outside of life safety, continuity of railway operations and protection of assets is another key objective.
We assist and support you to develop and implement effective fire safety measures that provide comprehensive protection, compliance and ensure that railway runs with no interruption. When required, we can also act as Client’s Responsible Engineer services (CRE) to ensure project delivery in line with regulations and your fire safety requirements.
Regulatory Landscape Governing Rail Fire Safety
There is a number of laws, guidance and recommended code of practice governing fire safety in the UK. Key pieces of regulation include:
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Specifically for Railways, the following guidance applies:
Fire Precautions (Sub-surface Railway Stations) (England) Regulations 2009
Regulations can be very complex, especially when understanding how it connects to and supersedes each other, and what is a correct way to implement it. We work with our clients to bring best practice and recommend a path to implementing fire safety measures that offer comprehensive protection, compliance and peace of mind.
RIFA And RISQS: Promoting Competency And Compliance In Rail
Rail Industry Fire Association (RIFA)
is the Premier organisation within the railway industry aimed at promoting collective fire safety issues and fire loss control interests for all private railway companies and organisations. It was established in 1996 and was recognised by rail industry organisations as the appropriate body for continuing the function of Fire Safety after the privatisation of British Rail in 1995.
New Terra is a proud Member of RIFA.
Our Director of Fire Safety, Dan Jackson is the chair of the Rail Industry Fire Association.
The Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme (RISQS)
has been in operation since 2018 and is part of the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB). It offers a portal linking buyers with suppliers both of whom are accredited. This is a mutually beneficial programme for both, as there is an inherent level of assurance with becoming verified and therefore searchable on the RISQS portal.
New Terra are RISQS accredited - ID 9400
Our quality management system is run in accordance with ISO 9001.
Working With Us
Passionate about making the world a safer place
Service tailored to your needs
Clear, actionable advice
Collaboration, care and support at every step
“We value the power of collaboration, build our relationships on trust and absolute respect, and take pride in the quality of the work we deliver.”
New Terra Compliance Director of Fire Safety, Dan Jackson
Our Accreditations
Featured Projects
Helping to make the world a safer place
• 690+ Audits
• 231+ Premises
• 14+ Clients
We Are Here To Help
Our purpose is to make the world a safer place by understanding regulations and assisting clients to implement effective fire safety measures that protect lives, safeguard assets, and provide peace of mind.
Get in touch to discuss how we can help.