In early 2006 we successfully completed the platform screen doors (PSD) retrofit programme. This eight year, HK$ 2 billion programme encompasses installation of platform screen doors on all 74 platforms in 30 underground stations. It is a pioneering project for railways worldwide as it is the first retrofit of such doors on a working metro system.
Execution of the programme was complex and required precision scheduling. All work had to be carried out during the daily network downtime of three hours and progress could not impede regular scheduled train services or public access to the trains. This translated to demanding site management and a stringent safety programme for both workers and the public.
Safety is a priority for the PSD retrofit programme. The door system is structured to be sensitive to any obstruction or protrusions of more than
8 mm diameter, to which the doors will automatically stop closing. The platform-long wall of screen doors provides the physical separation of tracks and platforms to enhance passenger safety measures.
The long-term benefits of this retrofit are already evident. With the sealing off of train tunnels, substantial savings in air-conditioning costs for the system contribute to our eco-efficiency programme. We have progressively achieved over three years an overall energy savings of 15% in the 30 stations compared with the pre-screen door installation energy consumption in 2002.
