The most recently published by the UK government show that there were 57 fires in UK overground and underground rail facilities in the year ended 2024.

Fire protection in rail and underground facilities presents significant challenges to life safety,  due to high volumes of passengers in crowded environments, with limited fast means of evacuation. Smoke spread is the leading risk during fires, as it can rapidly permeate networks of passenger walkways and stairwells.

Life safety advantages of water mist

Fireworks’ water mist fire protection solutions bring significant safety advantages over alternative solutions, due to their efficiency in suppressing fires, low water use and ability to reduce the spread of smoke.

The lower water use aids in preserving structural integrity and the continuity of critical power and communications networks during fires.

Water mist fire protection for all areas of rail facilities

In rail and underground networks, water mist can be used to protect a wide range of areas including:

Tunnels                                                                       Passenger tunnels and transit areas

Power and communications cables                       Machinery and plant rooms

Retail outlets                                                              Food & beverage outlets

Generator rooms                                                      Storage areas/bicycle storage areas

Communications and control rooms                     Server rooms

Track protection systems                                         Below escalators

Atriums and halls                                                       Underground car parks

The compact size of water mist equipment compared to traditional sprinklers  brings added practical advantages, as even small spaces and difficult to access areas can be protected.

Four reasons why water mist offers sustainable protection for rail facilities

1- Water mist fire protection uses much lower amounts of water than sprinklers, which also significantly reduces the problems associates with water run-off/draining after a fire.

2- Water mist pumps and water tanks are more compact than for sprinklers, with smaller pipes and components. This lowers the amount of metal resources manufactured and transported for water mist installations.

3- Professionally maintained water mist systems are highly durable.

4- Water mist fire protection uses no chemicals.

To discuss water mist fire protection solutions for rail and underground projects, contact enquiries@fireworks-ltd.com or 0800 975 7462