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The Crossrail Stations project forms part of a major transport infrastructure programme delivering new underground stations across central London. The works involved complex subterranean environments, high passenger capacity considerations, and stringent authority requirements, all of which demanded a robust and coordinated fire life safety strategy.
The project required the provision of reliable firefighting infrastructure capable of supporting emergency response operations within deep level stations and associated access routes. Particular consideration was given to system resilience, accessibility, and compatibility with the operational requirements of an active rail network.
Our involvement focused on the design coordination and technical assurance of fire hydrant systems, alongside the integration of additional fire life safety measures where required. The hydrant systems were developed to support effective firefighting operations, ensuring adequate coverage, pressure, and accessibility in accordance with applicable authority and stakeholder requirements.
Close collaboration with civil engineers, architects, MEP designers, contractors, and approving bodies was essential to ensure the systems were fully integrated within the station structures without compromising spatial constraints, passenger circulation, or operational functionality.
During the pre construction phase, our team developed the initial fire hydrant system design to establish a compliant and coordinated solution aligned with the overall station fire strategy. This included defining hydrant locations, zoning arrangements, and interface requirements with other fire and life safety systems.
The design process carefully considered the challenges associated with underground infrastructure, including extended travel distances, limited access points, and confined service spaces. Coordination with structural and architectural elements was undertaken to resolve spatial constraints and ensure systems remained accessible for emergency use and ongoing maintenance.
This early stage design work provided a robust technical framework to support authority engagement, stakeholder approvals, and progression into detailed design.
In parallel with design development, a comprehensive suite of pre construction documentation was prepared to support quality assurance, safety management, and programme planning.
This included the preparation of technical submissions outlining system intent, materials, performance criteria, and compliance with relevant standards and project requirements.
Inspection and Test Plans were developed to define quality control procedures, verification stages, and acceptance criteria throughout the project lifecycle.
Initial Risk Assessment Method Statements were produced to establish safe working practices, taking into account the unique risks associated with underground environments, restricted access, and interface with live rail infrastructure. These documents provided a structured foundation for the development of site specific RAMS during the construction phase.
An outline pre construction and construction programme was also prepared, identifying key milestones, sequencing activities, and coordination requirements to support efficient delivery and effective interface management across multiple station sites.
Through detailed design coordination, comprehensive documentation, and continued technical support, the fire hydrant systems were delivered as resilient and compliant solutions, supporting emergency response capability and enhancing life safety across a major transport infrastructure project.
Major Infrastructure
Crossrail Stations – London, United Kingdom
Fire Hydrant Systems, Additional Fire Life Safety Systems
Applicable London Underground and Authority Requirements
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