UK manufacturers urged to adopt updated railway fire safety standards
Iain Hoey
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Updated fire safety standards for railway products
Manufacturers in the UK producing railway seating, floors, and wall linings are being encouraged to adopt the updated BS EN 45545-2:2020 fire safety standards.
These standards, titled ‘Railway applications. Fire protection on railway vehicles – Requirements for fire behaviour of materials and components’, became effective in August 2023 in the UK.
Although not yet integrated into the National Technical Specification Notice (NTSN), the standards ensure compliance with modern fire safety requirements.
The EU has set a January 1, 2026, deadline for transitioning from the older BS EN 45545-2:2013+A1:2015 standard.
However, the UK has not confirmed when the updated standards will become mandatory.
The role of Warringtonfire in supporting compliance
Warringtonfire, part of Element Materials Technology, has urged UK manufacturers to begin testing against the updated 2020 standards.
Dennis Tuyogon, Lead Analytical Chemist at Warringtonfire, said: “By adopting the updated 2020 standard, you will fully meet current UK and EU requirements, making the transition straightforward and ensuring compliance with the latest regulatory expectations.”
Tuyogon highlighted the risks of delaying compliance, including potential retesting costs and non-compliance with future mandates.
He added: “Transitioning now ensures products deliver safe and effective fire resistance and compliance, while also providing a competitive advantage.”
Industry engagement through seminars
To raise awareness, Warringtonfire hosted its first Rail Seminar on October 15, 2024.
The event gathered train builders, trade associations, and rail engineering professionals to discuss the updated standard.
Quarterly seminars are planned, with the next scheduled for February 2025.
These events aim to provide industry stakeholders with insights into the updated regulations and their implications.
The seminars reflect Warringtonfire’s commitment to supporting the rail industry in achieving fire safety compliance and aligning with modern standards.
Technical advancements in BS EN 45545-2:2020
The 2020 revision of BS EN 45545-2 includes updates to testing methodologies, reflecting lessons learned and industry advancements.
While the changes are not extensive, they aim to align safety requirements with current industry knowledge.
Warringtonfire provides comprehensive testing services to meet these updated requirements, including flammability, smoke density, and toxicity testing.
Specific tests include ISO 5658-2 for flame spread and ISO 5660-1 for cone calorimeter analysis.
UK rail product manufacturers encouraged to comply with BS EN 45545-2:2020: Summary
Manufacturers in the UK are urged to adopt the updated BS EN 45545-2:2020 fire safety standards for railway products.
Warringtonfire emphasises the benefits of early compliance to meet UK and EU requirements, avoid retesting costs, and maintain competitiveness.
The updated standards incorporate improved testing methodologies and align with modern safety expectations.
Through its seminars and testing services, Warringtonfire is actively supporting the industry in achieving compliance.
