Working underground presents many challenges, and tunnelling comes with significant risks. It is crucial for workers to follow safety protocols and protect themselves from potential hazards.
Here are 5 key safety tips to keep in mind while working in tunnelling operations:
- Wear proper personal protective equipment: It is important to wear your gloves, helmets, eye, and ear protection. Make sure to conduct safety inspections on your PPE regularly.
- Ensure proper lighting: Make sure to have adequate lighting, as well as portable lighting as backup. It is important to have proper lighting, especially in areas with low visibility and/or heavy machinery.
- Take breaks and make sure to stay hydrated: Ensure that you stay hydrated during tunnelling activities, as it can become hot. It is necessary to take breaks to avoid fatigue and stay hydrated.
- Emergency Readiness: Make sure to participate in emergency drills so you can be prepared in case of emergency. Familiarize yourself with emergencies exits and evacuations routes in the tunnel.
- Communicate clearly and effectively: communication is the key while working in tunnelling. It is important to communicate with crew members to be fully aware of potential hazards and on-going activities.
Tunnelling brings many challenges and risks, by wearing proper personal protection, having proper lighting, making sure to take breaks and stay hydrated, being aware of emergency exits and with effective communication, workers can protect themselves. In tunnelling operations, safety first is the best way forward.
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