Reducing the impact of metro terrorism
Enhanced security of widely used European metro systems is of paramount importance to the safety of passengers, staff and infrastructure. EU-funded scientists developed vehicle materials and novel structural designs to protect against conventional explosives and firebombs with the project 'Inherently secure blast resistant and fire safe metro vehicles' (SECUREMETRO) . The focus was on containing the impact of the explosion and reducing debris, the main cause of injury and death in such events. The SECUREMETRO project provided numerous enhancements in the resilience of metro vehicles to explosions and fire. Protective film and bonding on windows ensures that they separate from the body cleanly without shattering. Retaining cables prevent the ceiling panels from falling, avoiding both injury and blockage of escape routes. Blast- and fire-resistant lighting based on the use of light-emitting diodes will facilitate entering and leaving the carriage such that rescue workers can get in to help passengers and assess damage, and passengers can see their way out more easily. Two full-vehicle experimental blast tests were conducted, one on a decommissioned vehicle of the Metro de Madrid and one on the SECUREMETRO prototype vehicle. Results from the Madrid vehicle have been fully analysed and reported. Data from the latter are currently being analysed and outcomes will be used to provide recommendations to industry regarding optimised design for blast resilience. The project also provided the opportunity to refine design of the test setup, including the choice and placement of pressure sensors to accurately measure and interpret effects of design modifications and of other types of blasts. Furthermore, scientists formulated possible improvements to existing standards as there were none dealing specifically with the behaviour of metro vehicles subjected to a blast attack. Following a press release through Newcastle University, the project was highlighted on many major news channels, including CNN, Sky News, BBC and The Discovery Channel. Implementation of project recommendations will protect people and infrastructure in the event of a terrorist-based explosion and deter future attacks by minimising the impact and thus motivation.
Keywords
Metro vehicle, blast test, retaining cable, protective film, fire-resistant lighting, pressure sensor
