Tunnels Under Construction Code of Practice

03 October 2002

This Code of Practice sets out the basic safety measures which must be in place when a tunnel is under construction. It addresses the hazards of dealing with underground work and atmospheric contaminants, as well as limited access and egress.

This code has not been updated for references to the new OHS Act 2000. Whilst the references have changed the intention of the Act has not altered.

Section 15 of the Old Act is now section 8(1) of the new Act. Note that the Construction regulations have been repealed, with Chapter 8 of the OHS Regulation 2001 providing a new consolidated source of regulation.

The code of practice stipulates controls regarding

• Having a spotter on duty outside every tunnel
  
• The provision of a continuous supply of clean respirable air
  
• The testing of hazardous atmospheric areas
  
• Dust control measures (note that atmospheric levels are now specified by clause 51 of the OHS Regulation 2001
  
• Plant specifications and
  
• Emergency procedures and provisions