K-Tex Emergency Exit System

HSBC Rail UK and Pickersgill-Kaye, working together, have developed, tested and now manufacture an innovative Train Window Passenger Exit system (UK patent no. 2396651) that aids faster and more reliable escape from train carriages (cars) during railway incidents. Developed in response to the problems identified following the recent rail disasters at Southall and Ladbroke Grove, the system breaks the designated escape windows on the car (carriage) with ease and total reliability.

The K-Tex emergency exit system was designed to replace the current window egress system in the UK which relies on, firstly - locating a special hammer and breaking its protective cover, and then separately breaking each individual pane of a double glazed window unit. In common with many current emergency egress systems this has had its problems in use with some passengers being unable to break the glass and becoming trapped. The K Tex device overcomes these problems.

The K-Tex system can also be used as an ingress system, egress system or combined ingress and egress route. It is suitable for use on both new build and refurbishment projects and offers excellent added value on cars up to 20 years old.

The device, which uses stored mechanical energy and two spring loaded hammers to create an escape route via the window, is easily and quickly built into the vehicle structure alongside the designated window(s) and is simply operated by moving a '2 stage' sliding cover and then pulling a handle. On activation, both panels of toughened glass in double glazed side windows break simultaneously allowing trapped passengers to escape by simply pushing the glass out. There is therefore no struggle with heavy egress windows that can create their own hazards.

To prevent accidental operation, the '2 stage' sliding cover is alarmed and, when opened initially to a stop, the alarm automatically activates. The alarm can be connected to the train communication system to inform the driver and/or guard of an incident. Further sliding of the cover automatically applies the emergency brakes. Once the cover is fully open the operating handle is pulled and breaks the window immediately. The unit is also permanently backlit supported by a local battery so as the device can be clearly seen & located in the dark.

The system has been tested for pulsing in case the window needs to be broken whilst the train is on the move and passed tests at speeds up to 125mph.

The K-Tex emergency exit system is simple to install and operate and has the potential to save both lives and valuable time. It is currently being successfully retrofitted to the existing GNER Mark IV 'Mallard' refurbishment vehicles for mainline service in the UK, and is difficult for passengers to vandalise or remove.

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