Construction of Underground Tunnels

Course Summary:

The construction of underground tunnels, shafts, chambers, and passageways are essential, yet dangerous activities. Working under reduced light conditions, difficult or limited access and egress, with the potential for exposure to air contaminants and the hazards of fire and explosion, underground construction workers face many dangers. To help employers protect the safety and health of underground construction workers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has prepared a number of guidance documents. OSHA regulations, relating to underground construction, were originally adopted in 1971 and revised over the years to add new protective measures and enhance worker safety. This course summarizes OSHA’s regulations related to underground construction.

Learning Objective:

• Introduction
• Construction operations covered by the OSHA standard
• Employers and employees covered by the OSHA standard
• Requirements of the OSHA standard
• Training requirements
• Notification and communication requirements
• Site control procedures
• Ventilation requirements
• Illumination requirements
• Special air monitoring requirements
• Special conditions for drilling and blasting underground
• Special requirements for using cranes and hoists underground
• Potential hazards that require special precautions
• Emergency procedures
• Record keeping requirements

Review the quiz before studying the course.

Course Content

Course Author: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)