Safe system of work: Rail tunnels

Control Measure Knowledge

For rail-related incidents located underground or in tunnels, safe systems of work, over and above those for working in the rail infrastructure, should take into account:

  • Gaining an understanding of the environment, including:
    • The access, egress and evacuation strategy
    • Location of pressurised escape areas or intervention shafts
    • Location of and distance to water supplies
    • The structural stability of the tunnel
  • The type of line – single or bidirectional
  • If there is an electric rail power system including overhead line equipment (OLE) or conductor rail equipment (CRE)
  • Whether the rail power system is involved

Fire and rescue services may need to:

  • Request or provide emergency lighting
  • Establish alternative communication strategies
  • Request assistance for the transportation of emergency services equipment – this could include medical equipment as well as fire and rescue service equipment
  • Consider the impact of exhaust fumes from petrol driven equipment, such as pumps, generators and fans

Strategic Actions

Tactical Actions