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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 percent increase from the previous year.

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. As such, 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 prioritizing 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 endure 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.

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