Inspection of Highway and Rail Transit Tunnels

Course Summary:

This course provides specific information for the inspection of both highway and rail transit tunnels. Although several components are similar in both types of tunnels, a few elements are specific to either highway or rail transit tunnels and are defined accordingly. The purpose of this course is to provide highway and rail transit tunnel owner’s guidance for establishing procedures and practices for the inspection, documentation, and priority classification of deficiencies for various elements that comprise an existing tunnel. It is also the intent that this course can be used as part of a comprehensive inspection and maintenance program. The preliminary research performed indicates that a majority of tunnel owners believe there is a need to develop guidance for procedures for managing tunnel activities that could be readily implemented.

This course addresses inspection procedures for the functional aspect of the tunnel, focusing on the civil/structural, mechanical, and electrical components. The course does, however, provide brief guidance on other systems/appurtenances, such as track, traction power, signals, and communications, which comprise the operational aspects of a rail transit tunnel.

Learning Objective:

• Introduction
• Tunnel Construction and Systems
  • Tunnel Types
  • Ventilation Systems
  • Lighting Systems
  • Other Systems/Appurtenances
• Fundamentals of Tunnel Inspection
  • Qualifications
  • Responsibilities
  • Equipment/Tools
  • Preparation
  • Methods of Access
  • Safety Practices
• Inspection Procedures
  • Inspection of Civil/Structural Elements
  • Inspection of Mechanical Systems
  • Inspection of Electrical Systems
  • Inspection of Other Systems/Appurtenances
• Inspection Documentation
  • Field Data
  • Repair Priority
  • Definitions
  • Reports

Review the quiz before studying the course.

Course Content

Course Author: US Department of Transportation