New fire safety guidance for sub-surface and underground railway stations have been published by the government. The regulations maintain the existing standard of safety brought in following the Kings Cross tragedy in 1987, while new guidance makes the requirements clearer, easier to understand and enforce.
Sub-surface railway stations are defined as those with at least one enclosed platform partially under a building or within a tunnel. There are sub-surface and underground railways in four areas: London, Liverpool, Newcastle upon Tyne and Birmingham.
When guidance documents were published to support the introduction of the Fire Safety Order in 2006, the Communities and Local Government department agreed to give further consideration to the sub-surface railway regulations. The new guidance recognises that a level of prescription is still required for sub-surface railway stations and includes:
The regulations and guidance are the result of consultation with the RMT union, Transport for London, Disabled Persons Passenger Advisory Committee, London Fire Brigade, Network Rail and other bodies involved in underground railways in England.
Bob Crow, RMT General Secretary added: “RMT members who campaigned long and hard to retain the 1989 sub-surface fire-safety regulations will be delighted that their key provisions will remain in place. The King’s Cross fire stands as a constant reminder of the need for the best possible safety regime, and it is fitting that after a rigorous process we have reached a regulatory framework that will maintain the essential standards put in place after the tragedy.”
The regulations come into force on 1 October 2009 after a six month transition period.
