AST Rail - Toilet Module Design

AST has had many years experience in the design & integration of toilet modules into rail vehicles, both in the UK & internationally. Many companies manufacture the vacuum toilet system to process the waste & there are some companies that actually manufacture so called turn-key toilet modules. However, due to the differences in vehicle gauge, interior trim interfacing profile, fixing positions & the frequency of new build train orders, most toilet modules have to be designed & built specifically for the vehicle they will be used in. Only the toilet system stays the same.

A further complication to anyone embarking on the design of either a Space Saver or Universal toilet is the ability & understanding if the following regulations:

RVAR – Rail Vehicle Access Regulations (1998)
PRM – Persons with Reduced Mobility (2008)
TSI – Technical Specification for Interoperability (2008)

The combined RVAR/PRM/TSI specifications define the requirements of the interior layout to provide easy access to the installed facilities for wheelchair occupants & other persons with reduced mobility.

FACT: As you can see the PRM/TSI regulations have only been in force since July 2008, therefore only new/refurbished vehicles completed after this date will be required to comply. AST are one of very few companies, to date, to have designed both a Space Saver & Universal toilet module that not only complies with all of the above but also GM/RT2100 Issue4 (not yet released). This GM/RT regulation ensures the strength of the modules is also compliant.

Globally AST are currently looking to develop Bio-Digesting Toilet modules for international train manufacturers & operators. With AST's experience not only within engineering but ergonomics & vehicle installations, we are sure in the near future some exciting developments will be created.