Occupational Health and Safety in Tunnels

Abstract

Purpose: Tunneling activities are rapidly growing in parallel with the increase in urbanization, industry, trade and transportation necessities in the world. Tunneling in developed and developing countries is now becoming indispensable. Because in many areas of life, the tunnel is now confronted as a structure used by human beings. Today, tunnels can be used for many purposes such as subway, highway, railway, water, sewerage, derivation (in hydroelectric power plants), under the river, immersed tunnel and nuclear waste repository. This study aims to contribute to the development of safer tunneling procedures by determining the parameters affecting occupational health and safety in tunnels. Study design/methodology/approach: Nowadays, two methods are usually used in tunneling, called drilling-blasting and mechanized excavation. However, there are many risks and dangers faced by the workers in the tunneling. Because of the nature of work, the work conditions are very difficult. Hazardous gases in the underground, fire, explosion, roof fall, mudflow, explosive material accidents transport hoisting accident (loading, hauling or hoisting) and machine accidents are the most common cause of work accidents. Besides, it is unfortunately possible to encounter very tragic work accidents that result in mass deaths. A literature search has been made on the safety parameters in tunneling and statistical data have been presented. Findings: In the study, the hazards encountered in tunnels and the related risks were determined and information was presented on the precautions to be taken against the risks. Originality/value: In this study, the procedures to be observed in tunneling and the safety precautions that are essential in terms of work safety are generally explained. The work safety procedures can be changed according to the factors such as the type of tunnel, the opening method, the geology, the equipment used, etc. For this reason, in this study general safety precautions in tunnels are explained. As a result, a summary safety procedure and flow chart for the tunnel has been developed by presenting the procedures that should be paid attention to firms and employees working in tunnels.