UIC 563 is the regulation concerning fittings provided in railway coaches for hygiene and cleanliness, covering toilets, water supply, and waste disposal systems.

What is a CET system in trains?

CET stands for Controlled Emission Toilet. It is a closed system that retains waste in a tank (often using vacuum technology) to be emptied at a depot, rather than dumping it onto the tracks.

How is water stored in trains according to UIC 563?

Water is stored in stainless steel or specific plastic tanks, protected against freezing, and distributed via a hydro-pneumatic pump system to maintain pressure.

UIC 563: Sanitary & Hygiene Systems in Passenger Coaches – 2026 Design Guide

A technical analysis of UIC 563 regarding sanitary installations in railway vehicles. This guide covers the engineering requirements for Controlled Emission Toilets (CET), potable water hydro-pneumatic systems, waste retention tank design, and “Design for Cleaning” protocols to ensure biological safety and passenger comfort.

September 28, 2023 6:01 pm

💧 2026 Modernization Note: While older versions of UIC 563 permitted “Open Systems” (discharge onto tracks), modern environmental regulations and TSI LOC&PAS strictly mandate Closed Retention Systems (CET) or Bioreactors. This guide focuses on these modern closed-loop solutions.

Passenger comfort is impossible without rigorous hygiene standards. UIC 563 defines the fittings and technical installations required in coaches to maintain cleanliness. It governs the entire “Water Cycle” of the train: from potable water loading to black water (sewage) disposal.

1. Toilet Systems: The Shift to CET

The core of UIC 563 is the management of human waste. Modern engineering has moved away from gravity-fed systems to sophisticated pneumatic solutions.

Vacuum Systems (CET – Controlled Emission Toilets): Uses differential pressure (vacuum) to transport waste.
Advantage: Uses very little water (0.5 – 1.0 liter per flush) compared to gravity systems, extending the range between tank emptying.
Retention Tanks: Must be designed to withstand internal pressure and vacuum loads. They require:
- Heaters: To prevent freezing at -20°C.
- Level Sensors: To lock the toilet automatically when the tank is full (Preventing overflow).

2. Water Supply Engineering

Supplying water on a moving vehicle requires a robust hydro-pneumatic architecture. UIC 563 outlines strict criteria for the water used for washing and flushing.

System Component	Technical Requirement	Safety Goal
Potable Water Tanks	Stainless steel (316L) or approved polyethylene. Must be self-draining.	Prevent Legionella and biofilm formation.
Filling Connections	Standardized coupling (UIC 563 specific).	Interoperability across borders.
Grey Water (Sinks)	Separate piping from Black Water.	Prevent cross-contamination of gases/bacteria.

3. Design for Cleaning (Vector Control)

Hygiene is not just about equipment; it is about geometry. UIC 563 dictates that the interior fittings must be designed to eliminate “dirt traps.”

Coved Corners: Floor-to-wall junctions must be curved (radius > 10mm) to facilitate mechanical cleaning.
Impervious Surfaces: Materials must be non-porous (e.g., GRP or High-Pressure Laminate) to resist absorption of odors and fluids.
Gap Analysis: Sealing of all gaps to prevent the ingress of pests (cockroaches/rodents) into the sub-frame.

4. The “Touchless” Revolution (Post-Pandemic)

While the original leaflet focused on mechanical durability, modern interpretations integrate Touchless Technology:

IR Sensors: For faucets, soap dispensers, and hand dryers (Hygienic actuation).
Foot Pedals: Mechanical backup for toilet flushing in case of electrical failure.

Engineering Note: For new rolling stock in Europe, compliance with TSI LOC&PAS (Regulation EU 1302/2014) regarding “Universal Access” (PRM toilets) is also mandatory alongside UIC 563 guidelines.

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