Health and Safety in Tunnel Drainage Construction
Expert-defined terms from the Advanced Certificate in Tunnel Drainage Engineering course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
As #
built drawings: Also known as record drawings, as-built drawings are documents that show the final condition of a construction project. They include any changes made during the construction process and are used for maintenance, future modifications, and regulatory compliance.
Best Management Practices (BMPs) #
BMPs are a set of guidelines and procedures designed to prevent or reduce the negative environmental impacts of construction activities. They include measures such as sediment control, erosion control, and water quality protection.
Confined space #
A confined space is an area that is large enough for a worker to enter, but has limited means of entry or exit, and is not designed for continuous occupancy. Confined spaces can present hazards such as lack of oxygen, toxic substances, and entrapment.
Egress #
Egress refers to the ability to exit a space or area, particularly in the event of an emergency. In tunnel drainage construction, egress is an important safety consideration and must be provided at regular intervals.
Excavation #
Excavation is the process of digging or removing soil or other materials from the ground. Excavation for tunnel drainage construction can be done using various methods, including trenching, shoring, and excavation support systems.
Fall protection #
Fall protection is a set of measures designed to prevent or minimize the risk of falls from heights. In tunnel drainage construction, fall protection may include safety harnesses, guardrails, and safety nets.
Ground support #
Ground support refers to the measures taken to stabilize the ground and prevent it from collapsing during tunnel drainage construction. Ground support measures may include shotcrete, rock bolts, and steel sets.
Hazard #
A hazard is a potential source of harm or injury. In tunnel drainage construction, hazards may include falling objects, electrical hazards, confined spaces, and excavation hazards.
Hazard assessment #
A hazard assessment is the process of identifying and evaluating the potential hazards in a work environment. In tunnel drainage construction, a hazard assessment may be performed using tools such as job safety analyses and hazard checklists.
Hazard control #
Hazard control is the process of eliminating or reducing the risks associated with hazards. Hazard control measures may include engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment.
Job Safety Analysis (JSA) #
A JSA is a tool used to identify and assess the hazards associated with a specific task or job. It involves breaking down the task into steps, identifying potential hazards, and implementing controls to mitigate those hazards.
Lockout/tagout #
Lockout/tagout is a safety procedure used to ensure that hazardous energy sources are properly controlled during maintenance or repair activities. It involves locking out the energy source and tagging the lock with the name of the person performing the work.
Machine guarding #
Machine guarding refers to the measures taken to protect workers from the hazards associated with machinery. Machine guarding may include barriers, guards, and interlocks.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) #
An MSDS is a document that provides information on the hazards associated with a particular chemical or material. It includes information on the physical and chemical properties of the material, as well as safe handling and disposal procedures.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) #
PPE is equipment worn by workers to protect them from hazards. PPE may include hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and respirators.
Respiratory protection #
Respiratory protection is the use of equipment to protect workers from inhaling harmful substances. Respiratory protection may include masks, respirators, and air purifying devices.
Risk assessment #
A risk assessment is the process of evaluating the potential risks associated with a particular hazard. It involves identifying the hazard, evaluating the likelihood and severity of harm, and implementing controls to mitigate the risk.
Scaffolding #
Scaffolding is a temporary structure used to support workers and materials during construction activities. Scaffolding must be properly designed, constructed, and maintained to ensure the safety of workers.
Slip, trip, and fall #
Slip, trip, and fall hazards are potential sources of injury caused by uneven surfaces, wet or slippery conditions, and clutter. Slip, trip, and fall hazards can be minimized through good housekeeping practices and the use of slip-resistant surfaces.
Trench #
A trench is a narrow excavation that is deeper than it is wide. Trenches can present hazards such as cave-ins, falling objects, and asphyxiation.
Trench collapse #
A trench collapse occurs when the walls of a trench cave in, burying workers and equipment. Trench collapses can be prevented through proper shoring, sloping, and shielding.
Trench shield #
A trench shield is a protective structure used to prevent trench collapses. Trench shields are typically made of steel or aluminum and are placed in the trench to support the walls.
Trench shoring #
Trench shoring is the practice of supporting the walls of a trench to prevent collapses. Shoring may be done using various methods, including hydraulic shoring, aluminum shoring, and soldier piling.
Tunnel boring machine (TBM) #
A TBM is a machine used to excavate and line tunnels. TBMs are typically used for large-diameter tunnels and can be equipped with various cutting heads and shields.
Ventilation #
Ventilation is the process of introducing fresh air into a work environment and exhausting harmful gases and dust. In tunnel drainage construction, ventilation is essential to ensure the safety of workers.
Walkway #
A walkway is a designated pathway for pedestrians in a construction site. Walkways must be kept clear of obstructions and maintained to ensure the safety of workers.
Workplace inspection #
A workplace inspection is the process of examining a work environment to identify and correct hazards. Workplace inspections may be performed by supervisors, safety professionals, or workers.
Job Safety Analysis (JSA) #
A JSA is a tool used to identify and assess the hazards associated with a specific task or job. It involves breaking down the task into steps, identifying potential hazards, and implementing controls to mitigate those hazards.
Competent Person #
A competent person is an individual who has the knowledge, training, and experience to identify and evaluate hazards in a work environment. Competent persons are responsible for implementing controls to mitigate those hazards and ensuring that workers are following safe work practices.
Confined Space Entry #
Confined space entry is the process of entering a confined space to perform work. Confined space entry requires proper planning, training, and equipment to ensure the safety of workers.
Emergency Response Plan #
An emergency response plan is a document that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of an emergency, such as a fire, chemical spill, or medical emergency. The plan should include procedures for evacuation, communication, and first aid.
Fall Protection Plan #
A fall protection plan is a document that outlines the measures to be taken to prevent falls from heights. The plan should include the use of fall protection equipment, training, and rescue procedures.
Hearing Conservation Program #
A hearing conservation program is a set of measures designed to protect workers from noise-induced hearing loss. The program should include noise monitoring, hearing protection, and training.
Injury and Illness Prevention Program #
An injury and illness prevention program is a proactive approach to safety that involves identifying and mitigating hazards in the workplace. The program should include regular inspections, hazard assessments, and training.
Respiratory Protection Program #
A respiratory protection program is a set of measures designed to protect workers from inhaling harmful substances. The program should include the use of respirators, training, and medical evaluations.
Hazard Communication Program #
A hazard communication program is a set of measures designed to ensure that workers are informed of the hazards associated with chemicals and other materials in the workplace. The program should include the use of MSDSs, labels, and training.
Person #
Person