As outlined by the Department for Transport (DfT) all UK rolling stock will be required to comply with the Technical Specification for Interoperability for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM-TSI) legislation by 1 January 2020*.
“The PRM-TSI applies to all trains used on the interoperable rail system, which comprises the major lines of all Network Rail infrastructure. It sets standards for accessible trains, stations and other facilities.” – DfT.
Universal Accessible Toilet (UAT) Modules
BCP has been manufacturing lightweight aluminium honeycomb composite panels and structures for the composite industry for over 30 years and is experienced in working with several prime contractors in rolling stock.
With a unique combination of properties, aluminium honeycomb composites are increasingly becoming the preferred material for a wide variety of refurbished and new build rolling stock applications, including Universally Accessible Toilet (UAT) modules.
The Universal Accessible Toilet module is a lavatory that has been designed to comply with the PRM-TSI requirements. The modules can be used for either new build or refurbished trains and easily modified in size to accommodate different configurations including standard, non-wheelchair installations.
BCP’s aluminium honeycomb composite panels can be used to manufacture the doors and walls of a Universal Accessible Toilet module. Panels can be completed with a HPL (high pressure laminate) for a durable and visually appealing finish in TOC brand RAL or impregnated silver iodide for an anti-bacterial surface in the toilet.
We supply doors and walls for UAT modules in the UK and also have the capabilities to supply the rest of Europe.
If you are currently working on a rail project that you would like to discuss, please do not hesitate to get in contact.
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*As defined by the DfT, while accessible rail will be achieved by 1 January 2020, with all new fleets of trains already being fully compliant, it is likely that a small number of trains in service will not fully comply with the PRM-TSI and some exemptions will remain necessary. DfT is working closely with the rail industry and Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC) to keep these to a minimum with effort being concentrated on those non-compliances which truly prevent disabled people from accessing trains.
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