Fire Safety Science Digital Archive

Passenger and freight trains provide a variety of fire risks, dependent on the type of train, and operating conditions. However it is now recognised that the consequences of a fire in an underground passenger or freight train is much more serious. Train engine compartments have traditionally been fitted with fixed fire protection systems but passenger compartments and driver’s cabins have relied on manual intervention with portable fire extinguishers. Freight wagons have not been protected. In diesel-engine trains the fire risk in the engine compartment normally involves the accidental release of diesel or lubrication oil onto nearby hot surfaces such as a hot exhaust manifold. On electric trains the risk is from overheating of electric motors or ancillary equipment. In passenger compartments the risk is accidental fires from smoking, as well as arson. In freight wagons a variety of fires risks occur. The objective of a fixed fire protection system in a train is therefore to extinguish engine fires, and suppress any fire in the passenger compartment and driver’s cabin without comprising safety of staff or passengers. Systems must be robust enough to withstand constant movement, vibration and possible vandalism. They should not harm the environment, nor damage sensitive electronics and electrical equipment.