GT27R1A1 Ventilation of Underground Works During Construction

ASSOCIATION FRANAISE DES TUNNELS
ET DE LESPACE SOUTERRAIN
Organization member of the AFTES
www.aftes.asso.fr
AFTES
Recommendations
Ventilation of underground
works during construction
GT27R1A1
AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1
Ventilation of underground works

during construction
English translation of the AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1 published in French by
tunnels et Ouvrages Souterrains n 176, mars-avril 2003, pp. 76-106
............... Approved by AFTES Technical Committee, 2003
The following persons contributed to the work of Working Group GT 27 "Ventilation of Tunnels during Construction phase"
and to the preparation and drafting of this Recommendation and its 2 Annexes:
Recommendation and its 2 Annexes:
J.P. BAUD (APAS MBTP) - J.P. BARRAL (TEC INGENIERIE) - DR BOULAT (BOULAT Medical Consultant) B. BROUSSE (CETU) - R. FREANT (BORIE SAE) - D. GABAY (RATP) - J.P. GUICHARD (CRAM Rhne Alpes) P. HINGANT (SCETAUROUTE) - G. LECUYER (RAZEL) - M. LETOUBLON (OPPBTP) - A. MERCUSOT (CETU) J.P. MEYER (INRS) - M.C. MICHEL (OPPBTP) - D. PAYOT (SOTRABAS) - J. PHILIPPE* (SNCF)J. RICARD (ALPETUNNEL / SNCF) - M.O. SENCE (SEITHA) - D. VALLET (CRAM Rhne-Alpes) J.S. VILLEGAS (VINCI Construction)
The following persons reread the Recommendation and its Annexes:
A. GUILLAUME (SOCATOP) - G. PIQUEREAU (CAMPENON TP) - P. LONGCHAMP (BOUYGUES)

G. COLOMBET (COYNE & BELLIER) - P. FAUVEL (SNCF)
* Jean PHILIPPE contributed extensively to initiating and setting up the W.G.

AFTES Welcomes comments on this paper (Translation R obert CHADWICK - Re reading Lucy REW)
CONTENTS
Pages
Pages
1 - INTRODUCTION TO THE RECOMMENDATION . . . . . . . .

1.1 - Reason for existence of recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2 - General approach to ventilation projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
8
8
1.2.1 - Three basic principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.2.2 - Applicable regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.3 - Management process to be followed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
8
9
1.3 - Area of application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 - POLLUTION PHENOMENA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.1 - Risk identification procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.2 - Prevention rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3 - Risk analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10
10
11
12
2.3.1 - Atmospheric quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.3.2 - Health and safety at work stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.2.1 - Pollutants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.2.2 - Air quality and work station comfort . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.3 - Pollutant evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.3.1 - Limiting values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.3.2 - Mixtures of substances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.3.3 - Dust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.3.4 - Gases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.3.5 - Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3.3.6 - Fire - Smoke and fumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
13
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14
14
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3 - VENTILATION PROJECT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1 - Minimum rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19
19
3.1.1 - Pollution treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.1.2 - Fresh air requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19
20
3.2 - General ventilation system concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
3.2.1 - Blowing ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.2.1.1 - Blowing ventilation advantages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.1.2 - Blowing ventilation disadvantages . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.2 - Extraction ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.2.1 - Extraction ventilation advantages . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.2.2 - Extraction ventilation disadvantages . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.2.3 - Installation recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.2.4 - Special case: pilot tunnel extraction . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.3 - Ventilation by air flow through tunnel network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.3.1 - Advantages of ventilation by air flow through
tunnel network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.3.2 - Disadvantages of ventilation by air flow through
tunnel network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.4 - Combination of different solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.5 - Ventilation for open-ended structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.6 - Use of permanent ventilation ducts or
intermediate shafts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
21
21
21
21
22
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3.3 - Input data - Design assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
23
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Publication en franais dans TUNNELS ET OUVRAGES SOUTERRAINS n 176

Ventilation of underground works during construction
Pages
Pages
3.3.1 - Characteristics specific to structures and ground . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.3.2 - Construction methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3.3 - Resources implemented . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3.4 - Pollution source determination and characterisation . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3.5 - Determination of fresh air requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3.5.1 - Dilution flow rate for diesel engine
exhaust fumes (QDdt) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3.5.2 - Discharge flow rate for haulage-raised
non-localised dust (QEpr) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3.5.3 - Collection flow rate for dust and fumes emitted
from localized work areas (QCpa) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4 - Ventilation principles retained and general measures . . . . . . . .
28
3.4.1 - Dust treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.4.1.1 - Drill and blast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.1.2 - Roadheaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.1.3 - Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.2 - Gas dilution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.3 - Air renewal / Fresh air supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.4 - Feasibility of solution retained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.5 - Outline diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.5.1 - Blowing ventilation example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.5.2 - Extraction ventilation example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4.5.3 - Blowing and extraction ventilation example . . . . .
28
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30
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4 - IMPLEMENTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1 - Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
32
32
4.1.1 - Fans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.1.1 - General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.1.2 - Axial fans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.1.3 - Centrifugal fans (Figure 14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.1.4 - Accelerators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.2 - Ducting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.2.1 - Flexible synthetic ducting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.2.2 - Steel ducting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.3 - Ancillary ventilation equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.3.1 - Distribution devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.3.2 - Protection devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.3.3 - Soundproofing devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.3.4 - Electrical equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.4 - Dust collection and treatment devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.4.1 - Limiting dust production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.4.2 - Containment systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.4.3 - Dust extractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.5 - Exhaust fume treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.5.1 - Petrol engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.5.2 - Diesel engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.5.3 - Different fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.5.4 - Exhaust fume treatment devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.6 - Treatment of heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.6.1 - Treatment of heat sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.6.2 - Air cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1.6.3 - Air heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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4.2 - Implementation and installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41
4.2.1 - Fans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.1.1 - At the tunnel portal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.1.2 - In the tunnel driving area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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25
25
26
26
27
4.2.2 - Ventilation ducting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.2.2.1 - Flexible duct erection and suspension . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.2.2 - Rigid duct erection and suspension . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.2.3 - Duct replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.2.4 - Passing through equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.2.5 - Tunnel driving area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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43
27
4.3 - Ventilation procedures and instructions for use . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.4 - Personnel protective equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
44
44
27
4.4.1 - Collective protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.4.2 - Personal protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
44
44
27
5 - MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.1 - General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.2 - Maintenance and checking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
44
44
45
5.2.1 - Training and information of maintenance personnel . . . . . . . . . . .

5.2.2 - The maintenance logbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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46
5.3 - Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
47
5.3.1 - General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.2 - Contractor inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.2.1 - Ventilation and electrical inspections . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.2.2 - Atmospheric inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.2.3 - Technical inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.3 - External inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.4 - Measuring apparatus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.4.1 - Flow rate measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.4.2 - Pressure measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.4.3 - Gas content measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.5 - Inspection frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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6 - ORGANISATION - ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK . . . .

6.1 - General approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
55
55
6.1.1 - Level of intervention of the different players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.1.1.1 - Preliminary and detailed design . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.1.1.2 - Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.1.2 - Parties intervening in ventilation design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
55
56
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6.2 - Contractor consultation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.3 - Contractor's ventilation project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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58
6.3.1 - Technical offer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.3.2 - Cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.3.3 - Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
58
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60
7 - STATUTORY TEXTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.1 - Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2 - Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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APPENDIX 1 DIMENSIONING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1 - Dimensioning of ventilation components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
63
63
1.1.1 - Design assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.1.2 - Design principles Basic equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.2.1 - Head losses in ventilation ducting . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.2.2 - Fan design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.2.3 - Special design case of tunnel network ventilation .
1.1.2.4 - Atmospheric data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
63
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64
67
68
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1.2 - Calculation outcome - Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.3 - Final design - Implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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APPENDIX II GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
71

1 - INTRODUCTION TO THE RECOMMENDATION

1.1 - Reason for existence
of recommendation
Throughout the thought process that prevailed over the drafting
of this recommendation, it became clearly apparent that ventilation, whilst certainly fundamental yet insufficient in itself, is just
one of the measures required to ensure a healthy atmosphere in
underground works during construction.
The aim of the recommendation is to serve as a guide for designing the ventilation system of an underground construction site.
In other words, all measures and facilities that allow the degree of
healthiness and state of purity of the atmosphere to be respected
by limiting concentrations of different polluting substances,
according to regulations, in view of safeguarding the health of
persons in the workplace.
As a result, when presenting a ventilation project, the Contractor
undertakes to guarantee sufficient fresh air volumes and flow rates
to comply with these regulations and to maintain them, irrespective of site configuration.
1.2 - General approach to ventilation

projects
1.2.1 - Three basic principles
Ventilation studies should comprise three parts, reflecting the following basic principles.
Firstly, it is of prime importance to eliminate or limit as much as
possible the emission of obnoxious, even dangerous, polluting
substances at different underground construction locations, by
planning appropriate techniques for excavation, mucking, support, etc.
The second principle is to favour the collection of all emitted
products (especially dust) as near as possible to their source to
prevent them from propagating into the site atmosphere.
Finally and only at this stage, residual pollutants not collected or
neutralised at source should be diluted to maintain their
concentrations below allowable thresholds
1.2.2 - Applicable regulations
This recommendation does not call into question Caisse Nationale d'Assurance Maladie (CNAM) [French national health insurance fund] general rules (R352) laid down in the "Recommandations aux Entreprises relevant du Comit technique national des
industries du Btiment et des Travaux Publics" [recommendations
to contractors represented by the French national technical committee for the building and civil engineering industry], adopted
on 27th. June 1990. This recommendation takes up the maximum pollutant concentrations and minimum ventilation flow
rates given in the above document.
However, the means that are to be implemented by the Contractor to maintain atmospheric quality at the required level are not
rigidly fixed. In particular, recent technical developments (extraction ventilation, electric motors, etc.) can lead to proposing varied
ventilation systems that enable maximum concentrations to be
respected, whilst possibly departing from R352 air flow rates. The
aim of this recommendation is precisely to provide designers with
all the information required to dimension and justify a ventilation
system suited to all construction phases.
1.2.3 - Management process to be followed
Managing the ventilation project for underground works during
construction requires examining several successive aspects, corresponding to sections 2 and 3 of this recommendation.
Basic design starts with risk assessment in relation to both pollutant emissions and personnel working conditions; this forms the
subject of section 2 (Pollution).
Application of minimum rules defined by the CNAM (recommendation R352), recalled in 3.1. (Minimum rules) provides
an initial approximation to the air flow rates to be provided.
The next stage is selecting a ventilation option, following possible comparison of several alternatives. This option will partly
depend on structural geometry, construction method and planned phasing of the work. The main ventilation systems currently
implemented are described in 3.2. (General ventilation
concepts).
Detailed methods of calculating air flow rates to be guaranteed
with respect to pollution sources are described in 3.3. (Design
assumptions). In addition, Annexe 1 (Dimensioning) recalls
methods of dimensioning ducts and fans to obtain a given flow
rate.
Resulting practical measures must then be detailed, based on
recommendations given in 3.4. (Ventilation principles) for
both dust treatment and gas dilution.
In support of these different ventilation project development phases, this recommendation provides the reader with the following
information:
A detailed description of available ventilation equipment and
on-site installation methods (Section 4: Implementation).
Recommendations concerning both ventilation system maintenance and processes and methods for controlling resulting
atmospheric quality (Section 5: Maintenance and inspection).
A reminder of the administrative and contractual framework
governing the "ventilation sub-project", including advice on the
role allocated to the different participants and on the desired
progression of studies and inspections, from preliminary design
through to execution manuals (Section 6: Organization and
administrative framework).
1.3 - Area of application

This recommendation concerns the design, dimensioning, installation, routine servicing, maintenance and inspection of artificial

ventilation installations that allow atmospheric conditions complying with current French regulations to be maintained during
construction of underground works. It is intended for:
All players involved in the act of constructing: the Owner and
his Health / Safety Coordinator, the Engineer, design offices,
construction contractors, inspection and consulting bodies for
safety and improvement of working conditions,
Public emergency services.
N.B. The specific problem of smoke extraction from a tunnel,
when a fire occurs during construction, is not dealt with in this

document and there is no need to consider this when dimensioning common tunnel ventilation systems (except specifications
for materials to be used). In this case, the potential role of site ventilation is a difficult problem calling for specific analysis and examination of various reference scenarios. It will be examined by the
AFTES "Scurit, Sant et conditions de travail" [safety, health
and working conditions] working group (GT 12). Moreover, this
analysis should be coordinated with the different operators in
charge of safety, including external emergency services.
2 - POLLUTION PHENOMENA
This second section of the recommendation details the following
information.
Construction-related pollution phenomena and thus the risks
that appropriate site ventilation can prevent.
Limiting values of pollutants and dust retained by French regulations.
The risks envisaged here are essentially linked to the quality of the
air that employees breathe in underground works. Prevention
involves ensuring control of this quality throughout the construction period.
2.1 - Risk identification procedure

The risks to which personnel will be subjected should be properly
assessed before designing the site ventilation system. The following operations should therefore be performed.
Conduct a general survey of existing dangers.
Evaluate pollution emitted by different equipment and, if possible, select equipment accordingly.
Estimate residual pollution risks.
Arrange and organise, as well as possible, work stations in relation to these risks.
The AFTES recommendation entitled "Lutte contre les nuisances
dans les travaux souterrains" [Control of pollution phenomena in
underground works], published in Tunnels et Ouvrages Souterrains (TOS) journal (N 134, March-April 1996), stimulated
thinking on this subject.
Moreover, it should be remembered that ventilation is an operation that falls within the advancing construction process. In addition to risk assessment, ventilation design should therefore consider many external constraints such as:
Overall design of the works,
Partial completion times,
Ponstruction phases.
Finally, constraints specific to ventilation itself should be taken
into account. These include the following issues.
The need to ensure supervision, monitoring and effective maintenance of the ventilation system.
Necessary adaptation of ventilation installations to construction
progress and changes in excavated volumes.
Risks associated with the installation and removal of mechanical
ventilation means.
2.2 - Prevention rules

The prevention approach to health and safety (H&S) is based on
the following basic rules laid down in Clause L230.2 of the
French Employment Code "Principes Gnraux de Prvention"
[general prevention principles].
Avoid occupational and environmental risks.
Assess those that cannot be avoided, especially those that are
exported and/or imported.
Combat risks at source in the design and layout of parts of the
works and in the choice of structures and associated equipment.
Adapt the work to the man, especially concerning:
- work station design,
- choice of working equipment,
- working and production methods to limit, in particular,
monotonous and rhythmic tasks and to reduce their health
effects.
Take into account technological progress in relation to equipment and methods.
Replace what is dangerous with what is safe or less dangerous.
Plan prevention by integrating the following issues into a coherent combination:
- technology,
- work organization,
- working conditions,
- employment relations and influence of prevailing factors.
Adopt collective protection measures, giving them priority over
personal protection measures by integrating their installation
into procedures and/or portions of the works.

Give appropriate instructions to workers.

In all workplaces, the employer has an overall duty to ensure
safety and protect the health of workers in all work-related
aspects.
2.3 - Risk analysis

2.3.1 - Atmospheric quality
The atmosphere in underground works features air that can
contain many pollutants coming either from the surrounding
ground or from construction activity.
Man cannot live in an environment in which the ambient air characteristics do not suit his breathing system and he can only adapt
to relatively minor variations in the chemical compounds present.
Purification capacities of the human body are effectively limited.
Furthermore, certain inhaled chemicals constitute poisons
because of their toxic effects.
These effects depend on:
The physical chemical properties of the substance,
The dose actually absorbed by the body,
Exposure time and frequency.
The respiratory tract is the main entry route for toxic substances,
but skin penetration should not be overlooked because it can be
very significant if the skin is damaged (wound, irritation, eczema,
etc.).
Recently, epidemiological cancer studies have revealed that certain
substances (silica, hydrocarbons, exhaust fumes, etc.) have carcinogenic or mutagenic properties and, because of the small doses
likely to cause cancer in man, research may lead to major changes
in prevention approach.
Reference values are detailed, when they are known.
Human respiratory amplitude and frequency varies with the individual, his activity and his physiological characteristics. Air supply
should at least cover human respiratory needs.
"Normal" air composition in a non-polluted environment is
approximately:
- 21% oxygen
- 78% nitrogen
- 0.04% carbon dioxide
- 0.96% rare gases.
But in underground works:
Confinement of the air in a drift or adit shaft encourages higher
pollution content and lower oxygen content,
Construction activity generates various pollutants, which themselves generate specific toxicity,
The surrounding ground can cause pollution phenomena,
whose control is inconsistent: toxic gases, urban pollution, bioorganisms, natural radioactivity, etc.,
By emitting carbon dioxide and consuming oxygen, human
breathing modifies air quality whilst undoubtedly insignifi-
cant in large diameter tunnel excavation, this can be a determining factor in some special operations such as shaft sinking.
As a result, safeguarding the health of workers under their working conditions demands:
Renewing air required for safe human breathing, especially by
supplying fresh air,
Ensuring maintenance of air quality, such that its properties
remain close to those of "normal" fresh air composition,
Diluting pollutants, if need be.
2.3.2 - Health and safety at work stations
2.3.2.1. - Pollutant
The following pollutants are examined in underground works.
Gases, blast fumes, diesel engine exhaust fumes, natural gases
(methane, radon, etc.), gases produced by ancillary activities
(welding of impervious films, installation of bituminous linings,
paint application, etc.).
Dust.
-
2.3.2.2 - Air quality and work station comfort

Construction area ventilation should also control:
Tunnel temperature to create acceptable conditions with respect
to work station activity of personnel,
Tunnel humidity to prevent fog formation,
Air circulation velocity in tunnels.
2.3.3 - Pollutant evaluation
2.3.3.1 - Limiting values
Limiting values given in this document are those in force at its
date of publication.

The E.L.V. or short-term Exposure Limiting Value represents the

concentration in air that a person can breathe for a determined
time (15 min. max.) with respect to the type of risk, the working
conditions and the technical measurement possibilities. Respecting the E.L.V. allows immediate toxic effects to be avoided.
The A.E.V. or Average Exposure limiting Value is the allowable
average value of concentrations to which a worker is effectively
exposed during a one day shift, i.e. 8 hours. the A.E.V. can be
exceeded for short periods, on condition that the E.L.V. is not
exceeded.
These values are expressed in terms of atmospheric concentrations, the only penetration route into the human body being the
respiratory tract. Additional (especially biological) indicators
should complement these concentrations when penetration is
through the digestive tract or the skin.
These values are expressed:
for gases and fumes, either in ppm (cm3/m3) or in milligrams per
cubic meter (mg/m3),
for liquid or solid aerosols, in milligrams per cubic meter only.
2.3.3.2 - Mixtures of substances
Limiting values are valid for exposure to pure substances.
However, when several noxious substances mingle at the same
work station, a potentiation phenomenon or mutual inhibition of
the toxicity of the substances present may exist.
These effects are approximated as follows.
For substances acting on the same organ or whose effects grow, by
applying the following toxicity formula:
In this case, the ventilation conditions should be maintained to

respect the above inequality.
Ci and VLi represent the concentrations and limiting values for
each listed pollutant respectively.
For substances acting on different organs or whose toxic effects do
not potentiate, by applying the following formula:
In this case, whatever i is, if one of the above inequalities is not

respected, the air quality is declared unacceptable for the work
station.
Certain authors consider that NO and NO2, as well as CO and
CO2, embody a synergy phenomenon and a strengthening of
cumulative effects.
2.3.3.3 - Dust
Dust is defined as being all solid particles with a maximum aerodynamic diameter of 100 micrometres or whose maximum limiting fall velocity is 0.25 m/s, under normal temperature conditions..
a) Total dust
This represents all dust collected in sampling devices. This measurement permits evaluation of the dust that is deposited at the
three levels of the respiratory tract: nose, larynx, trachea, bronchial tree, pulmonary alveoli.
The total dust A.E.V. is 10 mg/m3.
b) Alveolar dust
This dust arrives at the pulmonary alveoli. It penetrates the deepest into the lungs.
Particles with a diameter less than 5 micrometres have a penetration rate of over 50%. They are therefore considered the most
dangerous.
The alveolar dust A.E.V. is 5 mg/m3.
c) Toxicity of certain dusts
Silica
Silica dust has a potentiating effect. In addition to causing respiratory overload, this dust in fact encourages growth of fibrous tissue
and nodules, which aggravate breathing difficulties.
Crystalline silica is the most noxious form and three mineral components have been identified in the silicosis mechanism:
- quartz
- tridymite
- cristobalite
The cumulative noxious effect is evaluated using the following
formula.
Cns represents the concentration of non silicogeneous alveolar

dust particles (mg/m3), Vns is the average exposure limiting value
(AEV) for alveolar dust particles, i.e. currently 5 mg/m3.
Cq, Cc and Ct represent quartz, cristobalite and tridymite
concentrations (mg/m3) respectively, their AEVs being 0.1, 0.05
and 0.05 mg/m3 respectively.
Asbestos
Asbestos is found in a natural state in old rock masses. A geological survey of asbestos presence should be conducted. The BRGM
(French regional geological society) possesses accurate geological
data. Analysis of ground types encountered may be advisable to
characterise asbestos presence and type. During construction,
dust coverage measurements should be frequently taken. For 1
hour of work, the allowable limiting value is 0.1 fibre/cm3. If in
doubt or if this value is exceeded, the working method should be
reviewed. Employee collective or personal protection and environmental measures should be implemented.
2.3.3.4 - Gases
The following tables show the ELV and AEV reference values
given either in statutory texts or in international recommenda-

tions. Original document references feature in the "references"

column and refer to the bibliography at the end of this recommendation. These tables are not product restrictive, but provide
concentration limits for the products most frequently encountered in underground works.
a) Blast fume values
Products
ppm
Carbon monoxide CO
AEV
ELV
mg/m3
mg/m3 ppm
50
55
References
French Social Security
Occupational Diseases Table
Carbon dioxide CO2
5000
Nitrogen monoxide NO
25
30
0,15*
1,5*
Fr. Dept. of Employment Circular + Directive 91/322

Nitrogen dioxide NO2
Nitroglycol - nitroglycerine
9000

* Percutaneous penetration risk: these values do not exclude appearance of cephalalgia (headaches), which do not usually
subsist after acclimatization. Headaches do not appear if the concentration remains less than 0.2 mg/m3.
b) Diesel exhaust values

Products
ppm
Carbon monoxide CO
AEV
ELV
mg/m3
mg/m3 ppm
50
55
Dioxyde de carbone CO2

Monoxyde dazote
25
5000
9000
10
30
Dioxyde d'azote N02

2
Dioxyde de soufre S02
References
c) Values for natural substances

AEV
Products
Methane
ppm
ELV
mg/m
ppm
mg/m3
10
14
10 000
Hydrogen
sulphide
d) Values for other activity-emitted substances

Products
Formic
aldehyde
HCHO (formol)
Nitric acid
HNO3
Sulphuric acid
AEV
ppm
mg/m3
0,5
2
ELV
ppm mg/m3
1
5
1
6
3
2.3.3.5 - Heat
Man has a homeothermal body, i.e. its core temperature must
remain constant (37 0.5 C).
To control this temperature, the body exchanges heat with the
external environment in the following 4 ways.
Radiation: thermal exchanges by radiation between hot surfaces

and man.
Conduction: thermal exchanges by direct contact between the
skin and a solid or liquid object.
Evaporation: loss of heat due to evaporation of sweat from the
skin and respiratory membranes (perspiration can be limited by
very humid air).
Convection: exchange due to velocity of air in contact with the
skin.
Moreover, human activity produces intense internal heat within
the muscles: the energy metabolism.
These exchanges allow man to regulate this thermal equilibrium
with respect to his external environment. Internally, specific
mechanisms are brought into play to maintain a steady body core
temperature.
The main parameters that can cause loss of thermal equilibrium
are:
physical work,
radiation average temperature,
air temperature,
air humidity,
air velocity.
Depending on exposure type and time, working in a hot atmo-

sphere can cause:

heat stroke or hyperthermia attacks,
syncope attacks (fainting, pallor),
water deficiency or dehydration,
sodium deficiency.
Consequences vary according to individual functional capacities
(age, heart rate, strength) and operator acclimatisation (job familiarity, geographical origin, climatic familiarity, etc.).
Three principles should therefore be remembered to encourage a
return to thermal equilibrium:
facilitate sweating,
reduce energy consumption (measured by heart rate),
reduce air temperature.
Assessment of thermal constraints is complex and various indicators (especially heart rate, etc.) require extensive studies.
Ambient air dry temperature is taken as reference, for want of
being able at present to characterise accurately simple thermal
constraint indicators for underground works.
Thus, in underground works, it is recommended that operators
should not be exposed to a work station ambient temperature
exceeding 26 C in a humid atmosphere.
This temperature should be adjusted in relation to hygrometry
and for particularly arduous tasks.
Consequently, the following prevention principles should be
retained.
reduce heat sources or insulate them thermally,
refrigerate if necessary,
install suitable ventilation to maintain the temperature below

the limiting value (beware of discomfort due to cold air and
thermal differences exceeding 6 C),
act on air velocity to encourage thermal convection without
bothering workers by excessively high local air velocities (solution: diffuse air stream to lower its velocity),
mechanise difficult or arduous tasks to reduce energy consumption,
limit exposure time if heat is significant,
create a microclimate at the worker's location, e.g. air-conditioned machine cabs,
increase water intake,
moderate drinking water temperature (10 15 C), slightly
sweetened and flavored, average intake 100 500 ml/h,
limit sweet drinks (0.5 l/day fruit juice, fruit-flavored milk,
carbonated drinks, etc.) and coffee (400 mg/day),
prohibit alcoholic drinks,
increase sodium intake through food or drinks (meat and vegetable stocks, tomato juice),
provide showers and heating cabinets for drying clothes,
keep special personal protection in certain circumstances.
2.3.3.6 - Fire - Smoke and fumes
Fire risk (machine fire, oxy-acetylene cutting, plastic welding,
etc.), whilst not the subject of this recommendation, should be
assessed and covered by adequate prevention measures integrating
not only the role of ventilation, but also of all safety systems allowing the consequences of a fire to be limited (extinction, smoke
extraction, alarm, protection and evacuation facilities).
3 - VENTILATION PROJECT
3.1 - Minimum rules
3.1.1 - Pollution treatment
Ventilation principles essential to treating pollution emitted by
site activities are:
for dust pollutants:
- reduced emission at production points,
- local collection of dust produced, if possible,
- discharge of dust-laden air to the exterior,
- water spraying to make dust fall,
- installation of extraction systems near machinery,
- fitting of pressurized cabs,
- seeking of best possible airtightness between TBM and surrounding ground (bored tunnels).
N.B. dust does not dilute in the atmosphere, it can only be collected or discharged.
for blast fumes or gases contained in the ground:

- fume or gas collection at source and direct discharge to the
exterior.
for diesel engine exhaust fumes:
- equipment selection and engine servicing,
- fume collection at source and treatment,
- dilution by ventilation in the structure.
3.1.2 - Fresh air requirements
Determination of fresh air requirements results from examining
the pollutants generated throughout the underground system and
the way in which they have to be treated.
Recommended basic values for dimensioning the ventilation
circuit are as follows.
For dilution of heat engine-emitted fumes: 50 l/s per developed
effective horse power (h.p.).

New fresh air
Fan
Fresh air duct
Polluted air
discharge
Pollution concentration
Fresh air duct
Maximum concentration
Figure 1
For collection and discharge of dust pollutants, blast fumes and

gases contained in the ground: 300 l/s minimum per m2 of the
tunnel (generally excavated) cross-section.
These two flows are not cumulative. The highest value should
be retained.
Moreover, two other important principles should be considered:
On the one hand, maintain a distance of 5 logS (distance in m,
S = excavated cross-section in m2) between the face and the
extraction intake. This distance has been validated by experience
for pollution collection at source.
On the other hand, whatever the ventilation solution and type
implemented, check tunnel air return velocity, which should
remain between 0.5 m/s (min.) and 1.5 m/s (max.) to ensure
work area comfort.
3.2 - General ventilation system concepts

Ventilation systems installed underground are linked to a small
number of basic operating principles, irrespective of the tunnel
excavation and internal construction method:
Blowing ventilation
Extraction ventilation
Ventilation by air flow through the tunnel network
These different forms of ventilation can be intercombined: association of blowing and extraction ventilation systems, reversible
fans, etc.
3.2.1 - Blowing ventilation
In blowing ventilation, the ventilation duct supplies fresh air to
the face. Polluted air flows out through the tunnel itself from the
face to the exterior (Figure 1).
3.2.1.1 - Blowing ventilation advantages
Most active zones of work areas at the face (and possibly at work
areas located to the rear) are supplied with fresh air.
Air ejection velocity ensures effective face sweeping.

Polluting gas dilution is properly ensured.
Usually located outside the tunnel, the fan remains fixed and
independent of face advance.
Temperature of supplied air can be controlled.
3.2.1.2 - Blowing ventilation disadvantages
Dust and especially silica are dispersed.
Even though they are diluted, blast fumes or pollution generated
at the face travel the whole length of the tunnel and require
evacuation of all underground personnel, representing a long
delay in the work cycle.
Blast fumes emitted from the spoil during mucking are not
collected at source.
The pollution gradient increases from the face to the exterior.
Work areas to the rear of the face are in the air return flow which
is polluted at the face.
If not preheated, cold air supplied to the face can cause discomfort in winter.
Polluted air leaving the tunnel cannot be treated.
Smoke cannot be extracted in the event of fire.
3.2.2 - Extraction ventilation
In extraction ventilation, the ventilation duct extracts polluted air
near the work area and fresh air arrives at the face from outside the
tunnel (Figure 2).
3.2.2.1 - Extraction ventilation advantages
Allows pollutants to be extracted at source, especially dust and
fumes emitted when mucking (at the face and possibly work
areas located to the rear) on condition that a distance of 5 logS
is maintained between the face and the extraction intake.
Ensures rapid discharge of the blast fumes without polluting the
tunnel to the rear of the face.

Polluted air discharge
Polluted air duct
Fan
New fresh
air induction
New
fresh air
Figure 2
Causes no temperature discomfort in the face construction area.

Allows polluted air discharge to be treated at the tunnel portal.
Ensures fresh air sweeping from the exterior to the face.
Can extract smoke from a fire.
3.2.2.2 - Extraction ventilation disadvantages
Fan must be installed inside the tunnel (except if a rigid duct is
used from the exterior), which requires the fan to be regularly
advanced.
The pollution gradient increases from the exterior to the face.
All pollution is returned towards the most active zone at the
face.
For practical reasons, if the extraction point remains far away
from the face, fresh air supply to the tunnel face ceases and the
pollution level becomes uncontrollable (appearance of dead air
pockets).
Effectiveness remains limited a short distance from the face.
3.2.2.3 - Installation recommendations
The extraction duct inlet should be kept very close to the face
and ventilation installations, including system maintenance
operations, must be very well organized.
To avoid creation of an unventilated or dead air pocket at the
face, it is possible to resort to installing a mixing fan connected
to a duct taking in air upstream of the extraction intake, but this
solution has the disadvantage of putting muck spoil dust particles into suspension, if the dimensioning does not consider this
criterion (Figure 3).
Polluted air duct
Fan
New fresh
air induction
Face gas and fume lift-off
New
fresh air
Figure 3
10

Fan
New fresh air
Fan
Polluted air duct

Fresh air duct

New fresh air
Figure 4
3.2.2.4 - Special case: pilot tunnel extraction

Excavation of a pilot tunnel prior to driving the main tunnel
allows ventilation and other problems to be solved.
The fan is installed at the pilot tunnel portal.
The tunnel itself is used as the ventilation duct; all pollution from
the face (dust, gas and fumes) is then extracted directly at source
and discharged to the exterior. Extraction air can also be easily
treated before being discharged to the atmosphere (Figure 4).
3.2.3 - Ventilation by air flow through tunnel
network
All air in the underground works is circulated between two
points: the air intake and the air return. This is the most
commonly adopted ventilation principle in underground mines.
Most of the time, an extraction fan is installed on the air return,
ensuring that air intake through a shaft or an air intake tunnel
remains free.
Ventilation systems for blind headings can then be connected to
the ventilation circuit using one of the above two methods.
3.2.3.1 - Advantages of ventilation by air flow through
tunnel network
This form of ventilation is suitable for construction of an extensive network of tunnels and cavities, such as a mine network.
It allows high air flow rates because it is the tunnels themselves
that form the air circulation ducts.
Several construction areas can be supplied by secondary ventilation systems connected to the main fresh air circuit.
Head losses are low and this leads to power saving.
3.2.3.2 - Disadvantages of ventilation by air flow
through tunnel network
Pollution from different construction areas is sometimes
discharged into the main circuit.
Pollution gradient increases from air intake to air outlet.

It imposes high flow rates to ensure sufficient air quality at all
construction areas, but with air return velocities that can
become intolerable.
3.2.4 - Combination of different solutions
Different ventilation possibilities can be combined to cumulate
the advantages of the individual systems. A combination of
extraction ventilation as near as possible to the face and blowing
ventilation supplying fresh air at the rear offers great flexibility for
both fresh air scavenging of the face and extracting pollution
(blast fumes, engine exhaust fumes, dust). On the other hand, this
system requires installation of two parallel ducts throughout the
tunnel length and both the spatial requirement and the cost
(investment, operation and maintenance) are greater than for a
blowing or exhaust solution.
When blowing and exhaust ventilation are combined, care must
be taken to ensure that the blowing air flow rate compensates the
extraction air flow rate. Furthermore, implementation of such a
system demands greater monitoring of operating conditions to
ensure full efficiency.
Reversible fans operating in blowing or exhaust mode, depending
on the construction phase, can also be used as long as, of course,
the network of ducts and fans is designed to accept both ventilation modes (Figure 5).
3.2.5 - Ventilation for open-ended structures
This concerns the final phase of civil works, for example application of highly polluting bituminous layers and finishing work,
e.g. painting of side walls.
In this case, the longitudinal type ventilation principle is applied.
The natural draught can be mechanically strengthened if it is
insufficient or inconsistent by installing soundproofed accelerators in the tunnel or possibly by temporarily closing the tunnel
with a wall incorporating a fan capable of circulating the required
air flow rate (Figure 6).
11

Polluted air
discharge
New
fresh air
induction
Fan
New
fresh air
Figure 5
Reversible accelerator
Figure 6
New fresh air
Fan
Polluted air
discharge
New fresh air in permanent duct

Ventilation ceiling
Figure 7
12

3.2.6 - Use of permanent ventilation ducts or

intermediate shafts
This involves ventilation ducts for road tunnels ventilated by a
permanent transverse (end-to-end) or service tunnel-type system.
Numerous examples show that advantage should be taken of these
tunnels, whose construction follows the face but at a distance.
This solution allows temporary ducting to be removed and, in its
place, to benefit from often larger sized transit cross-sections than
those of temporary sections (Figure 7).
Use of intermediate shafts required for the project, or possibly
created during construction, may also prove advantageous.
3.3 - Input data - Design assumptions

This includes all engineering data allowing calculation of ventilation flow rates required for construction, definition of all
ventilation system characteristics and determination of its
operating method.
3.3.1 - Characteristics specific to structures and
ground
These include both geometrical characteristics of the structures to
be built (excavated and lined cross-sections, lengths, slabs, surface
condition, etc.) and geological characteristics of the surrounding
ground. In particular, these data enable the presence or absence of
silica, asbestos and possible gas emissions to be determined and
the temperature gradient to be considered.
3.3.2 - Construction methods
The construction method for the underground works and different ancillary works thus the potential pollution risks has a
direct impact on ventilation system design and dimensioning.
For each construction phase and each work area, checking should
undertaken to ensure that the ventilation design provides air
quality in accordance with relevant legislation and regulations.
The following issues should be specifically considered.
The tunneling method (blasting, roadheader, TBM, etc.).
The different excavation phases (full-face, crown, bench, side
drifts, ancillary excavations, etc.).
Implementation of simultaneous construction areas (at the
front, face excavation; at the rear, invert construction, waterproofing, steelfixing, vault lining, slab construction, equipment
installation, etc.).
Effects induced by breakthrough between tunnel cross-passages,
branch tunnels, and passages to the exterior in the case of a
complex tunnel network.
Performance of finishing work after tunnel breakthrough.
Consideration of different phases has an impact on:
flow rates to be implemented, through modification of the
mechanical equipment operating and thus of the pollutants
emitted,
the ventilation circuit itself, because of constraints raised by
crossing several work areas,
air flows, through modifications to the ventilation circuit,
especially during breakthrough between construction areas or to
the exterior.
3.3.3 - Resources implemented

Construction methods allow the type and number of machines
used and their operating conditions, the size of work teams,
operation programming, etc. to be determined.
Conversely, ventilation problems can lead to specialized equipment choices or options (e.g. electric-powered pick-up or loading
equipment).
3.3.4 - Pollution source determination and
characterisation
Studying the construction methods and resources implemented
leads directly to determining the different pollution sources and
the characteristics of the most common sources.
For TBM excavation and for internal structure construction:
dust emission during excavation,
emission of gases contained in the ground or in implemented
products,
dust emission during mucking (conveyor, etc.),
exhaust fume emission from heat engines (diesel, etc.),
dust emission during shotcreting.
For excavation by blasting and internal structure construction:
blast fume emission
products,
dust emission during mucking,
exhaust fume emission from heat engines (diesel engines
machines, stand-by generators, etc.),
dust emission during shotcreting,
heat emission from machines and/or ground and/or concrete.
For roadheader excavation and internal structure construction:
dust emission during excavation,
products,
dust emission during mucking
exhaust fume emission from heat engines (diesel, etc.),
dust emission during shotcreting
heat emission from machines and/or ground and/or concrete.
3.3.5 - Determination of fresh air requirements
The determination of fresh air requirements results from examining the pollutants generated throughout the underground
system and the way in which they have to be treated.
3.3.5.1 - Dilution flow rate for diesel engine exhaust
fumes (QDdt)
For both blowing and extraction ventilation, the dilution flow
rate (QD) to be provided by the ventilation system is calculated
based on 50 l/s/developed effective horse power, for all active
diesel engines simultaneously present in the tunnel.
The notion of developed effective power warrants some explanation: if we consider the nominal power stated by the manufac-
13

turer, the effectively developed power depends on:

the machines effective load
QDdf (Face diesel dilution)
QDda (Work area diesel dilution)
QDdr (Haulage diesel dilution
(m3/s) =
50 (l/s/cv) x Power (cv) / 1000
QDdt (Total diesel dilution - m3/s) = QDdf + QDda + QDdr
the slope and location at which it operates,

its general condition (maintenance, aging, etc.).
Developed effective power is therefore open to interpretation and
caution is recommended, although it should be considered that
systematically taking machine nominal power can lead to overdimensioning.
3.3.5.2 - Discharge flow rate for haulage-raised
non-localised dust (QEpr)
Dust emission is not localized and in both blowing and extraction
ventilation, the required discharge flow rate (QE) is calculated
based on an average of 300 l/s/m2 of excavated cross-section.
Spraying with water of concrete inverts can limit this pollution
and consequently reduce the required ventilation flow rate.
QEpr (Haulage dust discharge - m/s) =
300 (l/s/m2) x exc. cross-section (m2)/1000
3.3.5.3 - Collection flow rate for dust and fumes

emitted from localized work areas (QCpa)
In this case, treatment is ensured by localized extraction ventilation as near as possible to the emission source. Extracted air is
discharged to the exterior after possibly passing through a dust
extractor. Recirculation of treated air is not recommended, even if
a dust extractor is used, because a constant quality guarantee
cannot be provided.
The required collection flow rate (QC) is calculated based on a
minimum value of 300 l/s/m2 of excavated cross-section.
3.4 - Ventilation principles retained and

general measures
Site ventilation can act in several ways; it can collect, dilute,
discharge or separate polluting products generated in the tunnel.
The ventilation system should allow a healthy atmosphere to be
maintained at all times in accordance with current regulations.
The most disadvantgeous (worst case) site configuration should
therefore be systematically sought and the ventilation system
designed on this basis.
The examination of the ventilation conditions of a site should be
conducted right from design stage by the Owner and his Health
and Safety Coordinator through to construction completion by
the Engineer and the Contractor.
We recommend adoption of the following requirements in order
to deal with problems as fully as possible.
14
3.4.1 - Dust treatment

Given that this problem is the most complex to deal with, it
should be examined first by asking the following questions.
Are there dust emissions?
Are dust emissions laden with silica, asbestos, etc?
What are the emission points?
Based on the answers to these questions, it should be possible to
determine how to deal with the problems, favoring solutions that
prevent dust production or eliminate dust emissions at source.
These solutions include:
drilling using water or a specific fluid, wet process shotcreting,
spraying with water of mucking operation (if possible automatically),
collection at source using mist propagation processes,
spraying and suction sweeping of traffic routes,
localised extraction and treatment of polluting products
general extraction.
Possibly, selection of blasting, loading and haulage equipment and
every combination of these different means.
The following two points should be remembered.
The dilution method does not apply to dust.
To be effective, dust extraction at the face must obey the following
law: maximum distance between face and exhaust duct < 5 logS.
This condition is often difficult to respect but using a system of
telescopic air pipes facilitates its implementation.
In the light of recent examples of tunnel construction, it should
be noted that some tunnel configurations or driving processes
prevent the setting up of site ventilation that is efficient enough to
purify correctly the atmosphere at work stations.
Underground discharge filtering and recirculation never provide
a satisfactory solution and should, in any case, only be used in a
sufficiently large renewing air stream.
These situations are referred to hereunder.
3.4.1.1 - Drill and blast
In a 100 m2 cross-section tunnel, the application of the 5 logS
formula allows the distance between the face and the end of the
extraction air pipe to be determined, leading to the value of 10 m.
When this distance cannot be respected, experience, confirmed by
ventilation forecasting calculations, has shown that exposure to
crystalline silica dust measured on operators exceeds systematically the allowable limiting values of average exposure.
Application of the 5 logS formula is therefore strongly recommended.
Examples of means implemented on some sites are given below.
Face working machines fitted with cab pressurisation/air-conditioning systems incorporating filters providing sufficient
efficiency with respect to so-called alveolar dust particles.
Installation of automatic water spraying systems for blast dust.
Design and installation of remote controlled ventube (smooth

3.4.2 - Gas dilution

The ventilation air flow should dilute
polluting gases (if there is no methane
QCpp (localized dust collection)
emission risk of explosion) and reduce
[machine + gas in ground + mucking dust]
(m /s) > = 300 (l/s/m ) x exc. cross-section (m ) : 1000
them to acceptable contents according
QCprb (concreting robot dust collection)
to current regulations.
[shotcreting]
It should always be borne in mind that
QCpbr (rockbreaker dust collection)
resorting to electrically powered machi[machine + gas in ground + mucking dust]
nery reduces significantly the production of polluting gases. Furthermore,
QCpa (work area dust collection - m3/s) = Max (QCpt, QCpp, QCprb, QCpbr)
there are many systems for reducing
machine-generated pollutants: we desflexible duct) advance systems bringing ventubes to the face cribe them in this recommendation.
after blasting.
3.4.3 - Air renewal / Fresh air supply
3.4.1.2 - Roadheaders
Based on examination of the preceding two issues, it is possible to
To respect average (AEV) or short-term (ELV) exposure limiting determine how to ensure air renewal and fresh air supply.
values, a remote controlled system could be adopted allowing the However, it should be noted that it is a mechanical blowing ventioperator to steer his machine, whilst remaining far enough away lation system that best enables fresh air supply to be controlled in
from the attack area. This method of working has proved to be active tunnel sections.
wholly conclusive.
3.4.4 - Feasibility of solution retained
In parallel, experiments have been conducted to improve the After deciding on an overall solution, it must be imperatively subreliability of systems for identifying on-screen rotary cutter posi- jected to critical examination of its feasibility and of its impletions with respect to the optimum profile of the tunnel excavated mentation problems.
cross-section. This system, whose initial purpose was to limit
Are the structural characteristics suitable?
excavation overbreak, can prove very useful in complementing the
approach described in the above paragraph. Tests associating these Are the positioning and spatial requirement of the various units
compatible with site operation, machine maneuvering, work
two techniques that allow the operator to use a remote control
sequencing, etc?
box and screen for controlling rotary cutter displacement are
Can the whole system operate at all times?
currently in progress.
Is passing of the ducts through work areas permanently ensured
3.4.1.3 - Tunnel boring machines (TBMs)
under conditions considered in the design calculations?
On open face TBMs, samples taken to measure exposure levels to
Are the determined flow rates compatible with working comfort
crystalline silica reveal frequently that allowable limiting values of
in the considered areas?
average exposure are significantly exceeded.
Some construction areas are however equipped with an extraction 3.4.5 - Outline diagrams
air pipe connected to a dust extractor, but the efficiency of this 3.4.5.1 - Blowing ventilation example
system with respect to alveolar dust content of the face air cannot Retained flow rate QS is calculated based on dilution of fumes
be guaranteed, insofar as the outlet from this dust extractor is not emitted by all diesel engines (50 l/s/h.p.) because this is higher
connected to a duct discharging to the exterior and treated air is than the flow rates required for discharging or collecting dust raised in work areas (>= 300 l/s/m2) (Figure 8).
recirculated in the tunnel.
QCpt (blasting dust collection)
[blast fumes + gas in ground + mucking dust]
New fresh air
Fan QS
Blowing fan flow rate (QS) = QDdt (Total diesel dilution)

= QDdf (Face diesel dilution) + QDda Work area diesel dilution + QDdr (Haulage diesel dilution)
> QEpr (Haulage dust discharge)
> QCpa (Work area dust collection)
> QCpt (Blasting dust collection)
Fresh air duct
Figure 8
15

3.4.5.2 - Extraction ventilation example

Retained flow rate QA is calculated based on collection of dust
raised during blasting and loading of muck spoil (300 l/s/m2) at
the face because this is higher than the flow rates required for discharging dust raised by haulage (<< 300 l/s/m2 due to spraying of
invert) and dilution of fumes emitted by diesel engines (50 l/s/m2)
(Figure 9).
3.4.5.3 - Blowing and extraction ventilation example

Retained flow rate QA is only calculated based on collection of
dust raised during blasting and loading of muck spoil
(300 l/s/m2).
Retained flow QS is calculated based on dilution of fumes emitted by diesel engines (50 l/s/m2) used at the face (loading) and
haulage (muck spoil transportation) (Figure 10).

Fan QA
Polluted air duct
New fresh air

induction
Extraction fan flow rate (QA) = QCpt (Blasting dust collection) = QCpa (Face work area dust collection)
> QEpr (Haulage dust discharge)
> QDdt (Total diesel dilution) = QDdf (Face diesel dilution) = QDdr (Haulage diesel dilution)
Figure 9
Fan QA
New fresh
air induction
Fan QS
QCpt Polluted air duct

QDdf New fresh air induction
Diluted air discharge
Blowing fan flow rate (QS) = QDdf (Face diesel dilution) + QDdr (Haulage diesel dilution)
Extraction fan flow rate (QA) = QCpt (Blasting dust collection)
Figure 10
4 - IMPLEMENTATION
4.1 - Equipment
4.1.1. Fans
4.1.1.1 - General
By analogy with blood circulation, fans represent the heart of the
ventilation circuit, whilst fresh air ducts, shafts and tunnels correspond to arteries and the polluted air return circuit to veins.
A fan is generally defined as a turbo machine creating:
a continuous (non-pulsating) air flow,
16
a limited pressure difference between its inlet and outlet (above

a pressure ratio of 1.25, it is a compressor).
The essential ventilation characteristics of a fan are shown on a
flow/pressure diagram, on which the operating point of the
machine, connected to its circuit, can be checked. This point
should fall within the correct range and avoid, in particular, the
behavior zone which is unsteady and dangerous for machine preservation, called the surge zone (Figure 11).
Fans can be streamlined (housed within a fairing), driven by

Power
Pressure
Efficiency (dimensionless)
Total head loss in circuit
Braking power
Surge zone
Operating point
Total pressure
Ventilation efficiency
Dynamic pressure in
discharge louver
Static pressure
Fan flow rate (m3/s)
Figure 11 - Example of helical fan characteristic curves
electric motors and generally mounted virtually airtight on a

ventilation duct (all the ventilation flow therefore passes through
the fan).
4.1.1.2 - Axial fans
Their main characteristics provide conventionally (Figures 12
and 13):
high efficiency over a wide flow range,
high rotational speed possibilities,
possibility of adjusting blade inclination, usually when stopped,
but sometimes when operating, depending on available power
(the latter system proves to be technologically complex and
should only be used in and for circuits whose justification is
highly exceptional),
an impeller (propeller) usually mounted directly on the shaft of
an electric motor,
compactness, preventing wastage of space,
Figures 12 Diagram of axial-type fan
Motor
Outlet
Protection
grille
Blowing
direction
Flare
Impeller
Upstream fairing
Motor mounting Downstream fairing

Impeller
flow variation acting through inclusion of an electronic variable

speed control, which offers many advantages (power limitation at
start-up, flow adjustment flexibility, etc.).
Flow gyration downstream of the impeller can be rectified by
guide vanes, which enable both fan pressure rise and efficiency to
be enhanced. Downstream guide vanes are more efficient than
upstream guide vanes, the latter also tend to increase the noise
level. Flow gyration should be considered when installing two
fans in series (associating two counter-rotating fans is advisable).
Flow reversal
Flow direction can be reversed by changing the fan direction of
rotation. Flow performance characteristics for fans with guide
vanes will then be very poor and between 60% and 70%, for fans
without guide vanes.
On the other hand, a reversible fan can be obtained by:
either reversing every other blade, giving a flow performance in
one direction or the other of approximately 85% of that of the
initial fan,
or altering the blade pitch setting by 180 (variable pitch fan),
thereby conserving 100% of the flow performance of the initial fan.
Efficiency
Total efficiency is nearly 80% at the nominal operating point and
can be raised to 90% (high efficiency fans designed for a specific
operating point).
4.1.1.3 - Centrifugal fans (Figure 14)
Pressure rise is mainly due to centrifugal force.
Generally, the principal characteristics of these fans are as follows:
poor performance characteristics if the outlet is not connected
to a duct,
an external motor drive often through a belt (flexibility of rotational speed selection),
possibility of an outlet with 1 or 2 louvers,
3 or 4 possible types of vane (shape and inclination with respect
to direction of rotation),
one unique operating curve per fan the only possible adjustment
being the rotational speed, except if the fan is fitted with adjustable pitch vanes that generate pre-rotation of the incident flow,
efficiency, limited to 60 - 70% for some units, can reach 90%
for the most efficient fans, but the high efficiency zone remains
relatively narrow,
possibility of higher pressures than with helical fans operating at
the same speed,
centrifugal fan operating curves are generally flatter than those
of axial fans,
a smaller surge risk than for a helical (axial) fan.
4.1.1.4 - Accelerators
In general, these are axial-type fans mounted at the crown of road
tunnels or galleries and whose function is to induce a longitudinal
draught by generating dynamic pressure due to the high air velocity within the air mass contained in the underground structure.
Figures 13
17

Fan casing
Extraction intake flare
Outlet
Extraction intake
connection sleeve
Figure 14 - Typical diagram of centrifugal fan
be interconnected by means of various

systems specific to each supplier. They
are suitable for all diameters from 300 to
Impeller and blades
Flare + grating
3000 mm.
They are fitted with 1 - 3 lines of suspension devices.
Muffler
Ventubes can sometimes incorporate
Central body
regularly spaced reinforcing hoops,
allowing them to stay open when the
Perforated sheet-metal
ventilation is stopped, as well as radial air
Soundproof lining
internal walls
Motor mounting
outlets.
Motor
Spiraducts:
Figure 15 : Accelerator
Spiraducts are made from the same materials as ventubes but they are reinforced
During the final construction phase after tunnel breakthrough, with a continuous helical coil. They can therefore be used under
this system offers the advantage of compensating for natural ven- low positive pressure, but their high friction coefficient limits
tilation, which alone is often insufficient or inconsistent. In some their use to short sections or special zones such as elbows.
cases, this type of ventilation can lead to a dust problem.
b) Characteristic values
Dimensioning of accelerators is based on free field delivered
These are as follows:
thrust and not on flow rate, unlike fans connected to a duct. Free
field thrust is derived from the formula F = .Q.V, where is the - allowable pressure
- ultimate strength
density, Q the fan flow rate and V the jet velocity (Figure 15).
- tear strength
4.1.2 - Ducting
- dynamic perforation strength
- flame resistance
4.1.2.1 - Flexible synthetic ducting
- electrical resistance of both faces
a) Types of ducting
- rotting resistance
Flexible ducting is made of fabric coated with synthetic material,
which must be flame resistant and subjected, before use, to heat - hydrocarbon and chemical resistance
conduction tests according to a standard stated by the manufac- c) Storage systems
turer/supplier.
Storage cassettes are commonly used for smooth ventubes; these
Materials used should have a certain number of physical characte- allow the ventilation ducting to be released in step with tunnel
ristics to be suitable for use in a tunnel.
advance, whilst keeping it in tension.
They can be divided into two main types:
4.1.2.2 - Steel ducting
smooth flexible ducts or ventubes, which only operate under
a) Types of ducting
positive pressure,
Light sheet-steel tubes, which can be used for both blowing and
spiral flexible ducts or spiraducts, which can be used under
extraction ventilation. They are commonly called air pipes.
positive or low negative pressure.
We distinguish:
Ventubes:
Ventubes are fully pliable and in sections of varying length up to Flanged welded sheet-steel tubes:
30 m. Each end features a semi-rigid ring allowing the sections to These are made of welded sheet-steel and incorporate assembly
Fan
18
Blowing
direction

flanges at their ends, which can be screwed together against a

rubber seal. This type of ventilation tubing is used more for dust
extraction ducting.
Clasped rolled sheet-steel tubes:
They are made from thin, often galvanized, helically wound
sheet-steel, with a single seam for ordinary ducting or with multiple seams for tear-resistant ducting. Junctions feature flexible sleeves with clamping collars or riveted metal sleeves.
b) Characteristic values
These are essentially characterized by the allowable positive and
negative pressures, which depend on steel grade, sheet-steel gage
and duct diameter. Weak points are localised at the connections.
comprise a soundproof tubular casing of similar diameter to the

fan and are mounted in series with it. Their efficiency depends on
the soundproofing material used and their length.
Polyurethane foams should not be used as soundproofing material
(production of hydrocyanic acid in the event of fire) and, moreover, they are acoustically inefficient.
b) Baffle mufflers
When a very major reduction in noise is required, baffle devices
incorporating soundproof parallel sound deflector panels must be
resorted to.
Their efficiency is much higher than that of axial mufflers, but
both their cost and their size are also much greater.
4.1.3 - Ancillary ventilation equipment
4.1.3.4 - Electrical equipment

In general, it is advisable to vary the power of fans used during
work progress. To do this, the electric motor is acted on by considering speed variation of asynchronous motors.
Motor speed depends on the frequency of rotation (N = frequency
of rotation in rpm, F = frequency in Hz) and the number of polar
pairs P.
To vary the speed of an asynchronous motor, we can:
either alter the number of polar pairs: a mechanical solution
exclusive to 2-speed motors,
or alter the motor supply frequency: an electronic solution,
which is simpler and offers a wider speed variation range.
a) Mechanical solution
Polar connection cage motors: these motors incorporate 6 terminals and only allow speed ratios of 1 to 2. Low speed: delta
connection. High speed: star connection.
Separate stator winding cage motors: these motors incorporate
two independent stator windings allowing two speeds of any ratio
to be obtained.
Slip ring motors: motor speed is adjusted by altering the sliding
contact. Slip ring rotor terminal resistances are simply varied. The
higher the resistance value, the greater the speed reduction. Resistance variation is ensured by coupling as for rotor start-up.
b) Electronic solution
From a fixed frequency, single or 3-phase alternating current network, the frequency converter supplies variable frequency rootmean-square alternating voltage.
4.1.3.1 - Distribution devices

a) Branches and bifurcations
These are usually metal components, but are sometimes made of
flexible ducting. They allow air supplied by the main ventilation
duct to be distributed to secondary ducts supplying air to the
various site tunnels.
Their implementation should take into account the major head
losses they can cause.
b) Dampers
Dampers are devices that enable duct flow to be regulated or flow
distribution to be changed at branches or bifurcations.
They can be manually or automatically controlled.
At fan start-up, they also permit controlled inflation of very long
flexible ventubes.
c) Inlets, outlets, couplings
The geometry of air inlets, outlets and ventube connection devices to fans represents an improvement factor for optimizing the
performance characteristics of the whole ventilation installation.
Special care should therefore be given to designing these components if the head losses they cause are to be reduced to a minimum.
4.1.3.2 - Protection devices
Air inlet orifices are generally fitted with a protective grill either to
prevent any foreign bodies colliding with the fan blades or to prevent any object being ejected from the duct outlet.
When the fan is installed near the face and the tunnel is excavated
by blasting, a steel protective shield is installed to protect the fan
from blast matter. This shield should be controlled from the rear
of the construction area to start the fan without having to return
to the face before blast fumes are discharged.
4.1.3.3 - Soundproofing devices
Fan-generated noise pollution is significant and requires installing
soundproofing devices, which can be mounted in front of and
behind fans.
a) Annular mufflers
These are the most commonly used soundproofing devices. They
4.1.4 - Dust collection and treatment devices

The basic principle retained is that one must try to control dust
production, whatever the ventilation method used.
Limit dust production by resorting to "wet process" techniques.
Prevent dust propagation through the tunnel by collecting it as
near as possible to its production source.
4.1.4.1 - Limiting dust production
Methods should be favoured that prevent or limit dust production, such as drilling using water, foam or any fluid suited to the
ground, resorting to wet process shotcreting, systematic spraying
19

of concrete inverts during haulage and of muck spoil during the

mucking operation. Preferably, automatic irrigation lines should
be used for the latter spraying operations to prevent operator
exposure to pollution.
As regards roadheaders, fogging techniques can enable dust production to be effectively cut down (0.5 micron dust is collected by
a 0.5 micron water droplet).
4.1.4.2 - Containment systems
Enclosing as much as possible polluting operations using walls,
curtains, etc. is recommended, to simultaneously maximise pollutant containment, reduce air transit cross-sections and mitigate
the harmful effects of draughts. This principle allows discharge
system efficiency to be increased and extraction flow rates to be
reduced.
4.1.4.3 - Dust extractors
A dust extractor enables solid particles in suspension to be separated from a gas flow.
Four major classes of dust extractor can be distinguished.
Mechanical dust extractors (cyclones), which can operate dry or
liquid injection under the action of centrifugal, inertial or gravitational force.
Electrical dust extractors: the gas flow is subjected to an electrical charge (ionisation) and the dust particles thereby charged are
then attracted to surfaces of opposing polarity, on which they are
deposited.
Hydraulic dust extractors (scrubbers): forces applied by this
system make the dust particles heavier by forming clusters in
contact with fine water droplets and cause clusters so formed to be
halted when they collide with wet surfaces.
Porous layer dust extractors: the gas flow crosses a porous layer,
which retains particles by adhesion. The porous layer is usually
made up of separate elements packed together to form fibrous or
granular layers.
It should be remembered, however, that resorting to a dust collector does not guarantee that the quality of air discharged is at least
equal to fresh air and thus it cannot be recirculated in the eyes of
the legislator.
Ventilation ducting should therefore be connected to dust
collectors before discharging the air directly to the exterior.
4.1.5 - Exhaust fume treatment
4.1.5.1 - Petrol engines
Whatever their power, petrol engines should be PROHIBITED
because their CO (10% of exhaust fumes) and nitrous fume emissions are very high and odourless.
4.1.5.2 - Diesel engines
Under similar operating conditions, CO emissions are much
lower for diesel than for petrol engines. Diesel engines also produce less unburnt hydrocarbons but, on the other hand, they produce sulphur dioxide (SO2). Other diesel engine pollutants are
nitrous fumes (Nox), inorganic acids, soot and smoke.
20
Precombustion chamber and direct injection, electronic control

diesel engines represent a solution which provides the best results
today. These engines reduce considerably not only operating cycle
problems, but also pollution due to noise and vibration.
4.1.5.3 - Different fuels
We consider here very low sulphur content fuels. Their systematic
use allows the SO2 in engine exhaust fumes to be practically
eliminated. The use of desulphurised fuels is therefore recommended.
4.1.5.4 - Exhaust fume treatment devices
The main devices currently in existence for treating exhaust fumes
at engine outlets are described below.
On the one hand, it should be noted that this list is not exhaustive
and, on the other hand, that technology in this field is constantly
evolving such that new methods appear regularly on the market.
a) Bubble tank
Originally, the bubble tank was intended for machines working in
a firedamp atmosphere and was designed to eliminate the risk of
sparks.
It therefore has no effect on exhaust fumes and retains only 30%
of particles in suspension.
Its only advantage is that it cools fumes and therefore enables
paper filters to be used to retain soot particles.
Its disadvantage is that it affects engine performance and causes
significant humidification of the ambient air.
b) Fume dilution devices
These are mechanical devices that are mounted on the exhaust
and are designed to accelerate the fumes to encourage their
ejection far away from the operator to a better ventilated area.
They act by centrifugal effect.
c) Paper filters
These are very efficient to trapping soot particles (80% eliminated). But they can only be used after cooling the exhaust fumes
(T < 120 C) and have to be frequently changed (8 to 20 h usage,
depending on engine pollution level).
d) Ceramic filters with catalysers
Soot accumulation in a ceramic filter causes a temperature
increase, which induces the catalysing reaction that destroys the
soot. The minimum temperature required by catalysis is 300 C.
This system reduces soot by 50 - 70%, but also has an effect on
the fumes (approximately 50% reduction in pollutants).
The temperature required for catalysis can be decreased by adding
a catalyser to diesel fuel.
e) Oxy-catalytic exhaust pipes
These exhaust pipes have to be custom-designed for each engine
and require very careful servicing.
They act by oxidation, reduce soot emission by approximately
50%, but are also very effective in relation to fumes and destroy in
particular aromatic nuclei.
On the other hand, when sulphur is present, the emitted SO2 is

converted into SO4, which in a humid environment (bubble tank)

produces H2 SO4.
Presence of sulphur in fuels also has the disadvantage of promoting the appearance of hard particles, which lead to combustion
chamber damage.
This is the reason for the recommendation drawn up in the USA
aimed at reducing the presence of sulphur in fuels (sulphur
content < 0.05% by weight).
f ) Catalytic exhaust pipes with burners
Connecting a catalytic exhaust pipe to a burner raises the fume
temperature to 600 C, which improves catalysis results.
Research is currently being conducted in Germany for both cars
and tractor units.
4.1.6 - Treatment of heat
4.1.6.1 - Treatment of heat sources
Machines used for construction represent heat sources, whose
significance can lead to a temperature rise that can be, at least
locally, detrimental to working conditions. This is especially the
case for tunnel boring machines. A comprehensive cooling system
should therefore be implemented to discharge calories to the
exterior.
4.1.6.2 - Air cooling
Cooling of fresh air introduced into construction areas by industrial
cooling/air-conditioning methods may prove necessary, especially
when confronted with a temperature gradient associated
with increasing depth of construction or an active volcanic-type
geological environment.
4.1.6.3 - Air heating
Conversely, when fresh air is taken from the exterior at too low a
temperature, it may prove necessary to direct it through a heating
unit prior to introduction into construction areas.
4.2 - Implementation and installation

4.2.1 - Fans
Fan installation should be carried out according to guidelines
provided by the supplier.
In particular, it should be stressed that fans must:
remain permanently accessible to allow them to be serviced and
repaired,
be fitted with mufflers to limit their noise when installed near
working areas or in a manned environment,
be fitted with protective grills mounted on their exhaust cones,
be connected to the first ventube section by means of a conical
connecting unit with an apex angle of at least 20.
4.2.1.1 - At the tunnel portal
All fans installed at the tunnel portal should imperatively take
account of meteorological conditions specific to the site and
ground topography.
Fan positioning and installation can lead to foul air recirculation

or mixing with the fresh air supply.
In urban areas, consideration of these factors, combined with that
of dust, odor and noise emissions, will be decisive when selecting
fan location and orientation.
All open air duct sections should be protected against risks
associated with construction traffic, rock falls, icing, etc.
4.2.1.2 - In the tunnel driving area
Fan installation in the tunnel driving area occurs especially when
extraction ventilation is required near the face. It can also apply if
sweeping of the face with fresh air taken from the rear in the
tunnel is desired.
In general, placing the fan itself near the face is difficult. Most of
the time, it is therefore installed to the rear of the face, for example on a portal frame allowing machines to pass, and extended
forward by a rigid or flexible duct section, which can be retractable or not, depending on the type of ventilation.
However, fan installation in the tunnel driving area often remains
problematic either because of machine size or because of the noise
pollution it generates.
4.2.2 - Ventilation ducting
The overall efficiency of the installation and the quality of air
distributed very often depend on the quality of ventilation duct
installation.
Special care should therefore be given to duct suspension systems.
4.2.2.1 - Flexible duct erection and suspension
Flexible synthetic ducting should be suspended from tension
cables.
Especially when there is no fan start-up control unit, it is advisable to always keep part of the ventube cross-section open to
reduce the surge effect when the fan is started.
Either twin cable suspension or single cable suspension, but with
supporting hangers, can be adopted to achieve this.
Duct sections should be assembled using screw- or cam-closed
flanged couplings.
Flexible duct elongation should be rectified by retensioning
during erection and special care should be given to cable fixing
points as well as to the fire resistance and proofing of the products
used.
4.2.2.2 - Rigid duct erection and suspension
Longitudinally or helically welded rigid duct sections should be
suspended from several points to prevent airtightness defects
during assembly resulting from deformation under their own
weight.
Joints should be minimally stressed by moments or shear forces.
4.2.2.3 - Duct replacement
Duct suspension should be designed to allow rapid replacement
of damaged sections to limit major leaks, which can occur especially in additional work areas.
21

4.2.2.4 - Passing through equipment

Tunnel construction management can lead to several successive
work areas, which must be crossed by ventilation ducting (waterproofing, invert concreting, vault concreting areas, etc.).
These passages should be carefully studied so that they do not
cause additional head losses or damage to the duct itself.
4.2.2.5 - Tunnel driving area
It is in this area that ducting is most exposed either because of
machine movement, which is particularly intense in this area, or
and above all, because of blasting, when explosives are used.
The last duct section is the most exposed and should always be
kept as the end section, as long as it can be reused.
Implementation of telescopic sections, which can be folded away
during blasting, can also be adopted.
4.3 - Ventilation procedures

and instructions for use
Even if site ventilation is suitably designed, dimensioning of
sections correct and implementation carried out according to the
rules, ventilation can be insufficient during certain construction
phases simply because its operation is misunderstood or its
day-to-day use is incorrect.
It is therefore essential that the Organisation manager drafts a
document detailing procedures and instructions for use of the site
ventilation system, indicating in particular:
the fan start-up sequence for different construction phases,
the ventilation ducting advance process and distances to be

respected in relation to the face,
the frequency of different inspection operations,
regular servicing operations and their frequency,
in general, all measures to be taken to ensure satisfactory operation of installed ventilation.
4.4 - Personnel protective equipment

In view of the prevention principles stated above, resorting to the
equipment referred to below can only be exceptional or represent
back-up to more general measures aimed at ensuring air quality
during construction.
4.4.1 - Collective protection
This involves mainly pressurized and/or air-conditioned cabs
fitted to production machinery, especially roadheaders, shotcreting robots or muck loading machines.
We should also classify under this heading the "Respir" cabin, a
collective pressurised room supplied with fresh air from the exterior, designed to safeguard the tunneling crew during the blast
kickback phase and to prevent it having to leave the tunnel.
4.4.2 - Personal protection
For the record, we include under this heading specific protective
breathing equipment resorted to only in the event of danger or
absolute need to penetrate into a polluted atmosphere area.
5 - MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTIONS

5.1 - General
Statutory measures require the Organisation manager and selfemployed worker to adopt, in particular, organisational measures
specific to detecting in time any damage likely to cause danger, in
order to ensure safety and protect the health of workers in his
Organisation.
Amongst these measures, the French employment code requires
periodic checks and inspections to ensure the proper state of
conformity not only of premises, installations and work equipment, but also of protection equipment and means.
Moreover, these periodic checks and inspections are limited to the
obligations under the French employment code and do not
include those imposed by other French ministries (industry town planning and housing transport, etc.).
The nature and content of each check and inspection are laid
down in specific statutory orders, which should be referred to for
further detail.
Checking frequency should correspond to a minimum requirement and both examinations and checks should be compulsory
after any failure that may or may not have caused an accident or
22
after any abnormal force or incident that may have caused a disorder in the installation (clause 22 of French decree of 08/01/1965).
Furthermore, the work inspector can require additional checks at
any time.
Checking represents an inspection of the installation with a view
to ensuring its proper operation and must be included in a maintenance action.
Definitions
An inspection is an assessment of equipment or situation conformity. In most cases, it is performed by a certified technical inspection body or by the administration.
The term "leakage inspection" sometimes refers to the notion of
examination. In most cases, it is used in regulations when in the
presence of tanks, pipes and ducts, storage tanks, hollow containers or equipment incorporating a cavity.
The notion of servicing refers to routine equipment cleaning or
repair operations.
The term "pressure test" is especially used in the pressurised
equipment field. A pressure test involves subjecting the equipment to a suitable hydraulic pressure greater than its maximum

working pressure. This pressure is maintained throughout the

time required for the equipment and, in particular, its walls to be
fully examined. The equipment will be considered to have
successfully passed the pressure test if it has resisted the test pressure
without leaking or permanently deforming.
5.2 - Maintenance and checking

Working equipment not covered by a specific statutory measure is
subject to obligations laid down by French employment code
clause L 233.5-1, which details equipment that must be kept in
good condition, whence the need to undertake maintenance.
Performance tests should be determined with respect to the
equipment and the site on which it is installed. These tests are
detailed in the maintenance manual.
Equipment maintenance should be ensured to preserve the health
and safety of workers.
The Contractor is responsible for seeking all installation anomalies and damage likely to adversely affect working conditions and
influence worker health and safety.
To achieve this, the Contractor should appoint one or more
persons in charge of equipment maintenance, who should then be
specifically designated and specially trained to respect the requirements and performance conditions of their respective tasks
(French employment code clauses R 233-9 and R 233-10).
Moreover, the French employment code requires both initial and
periodic tests and checks on many different equipment items and
it fixes their frequency and content (see tables below).
Clause R 233-11 stipulates that these "checks are performed by
qualified persons, employed or not by the organisation, whose list
is kept at the disposal of the work inspector or controller. These
persons shall be skilled in the prevention field for risks presented
by the work equipment".
The result of periodic general checking should be recorded in the
Organisation safety logbook.
Reports drawn up following periodic checks should be attached to
the safety logbook, when they are performed by persons not
employed by the Organisation.
The safety logbook should be kept at the disposal of the work
inspectorate, the CRAM [French regional health insurance fund]
and the OPPBTP [French building and civil engineering industry
professional prevention body].
5.2.1 - Training and information of maintenance
personnel
French employment code clause R 233-2 stipulates that the Organisation manager shall, by appropriate means, inform workers in
charge of working equipment maintenance implementation of:
operating or maintenance conditions for this working equipment,
instructions and procedures concerning it,
action to be taken in foreseeable abnormal situations,
experience-based conclusions allowing certain risks to be eliminated.
This information should be drawn up based on the instruction

manual normally supplied when acquiring any working equipment in accordance with marketing conventions.
"By appropriate means" involves safety training, in relation to
which French employment code clause R 233-3 states, "must be
renewed and complemented as often as required to take account
of equipment changes for which these workers are responsible".
5.2.2 - The maintenance logbook
This logbook should show the equipment to be checked, the
checking frequency and content.
Inspections, their dates and the equipment concerned should
feature in this logbook.
Monitoring of observations and findings should be clearly shown
and initialed by the person charged with restoring conformity
and fault elimination.
This logbook can be computerised subject to the approval of the
work inspectorate.
5.3 - Inspections
5.3.1 - General
Inspections and servicing work should be regularly performed:
first, to check that dimensioning assumptions made are indeed
validated and that ventilation characteristics obtained do effectively conform with the design calculation and, second, to ensure
proper operation of the installation throughout the construction
period.
The Contractor is responsible for servicing and inspection of the
site ventilation installation and should take all necessary measures
to fulfill satisfactorily this assignment.
5.3.2 - Contractor inspections
The different inspections to be performed can be broken down as
follows:
ventilation and electrical inspections enabling the quantities of
fresh air supplied to different site locations to be checked,
dust and polluting gas content inspections enabling validation
of effective compliance of the atmosphere with regulations,
technical inspections of the installation itself, especially involving duct leakage inspection or fan operation.
All inspections performed should be recorded in a logbook
specially provided for this purpose, which should be kept at the
disposal of the Engineer, inspection and prevention bodies.
5.3.2.1 - Ventilation and electrical inspections
The Contractor should measure the ventilation system characteristics and, in particular, take measurements of:
flow and pressure in representative ducts (upstream and downstream of fans, changes of cross-section, non airtight ducts, etc.),
fan electrical power.
These inspection measurements may indicate flow inadequacies
and the Contractor should therefore undertake the repairs and
23

modifications required to maintain the installation in perfect

condition.
Flow rates and pressures should preferably be measured in measuring sections installed for this purpose. Measuring points should
be located at a distance of more than 30 x diameter of the considered duct from fans or irregular points.
Suitable flow rate and pressure measuring instruments should be
permanently available on site and measurements themselves
should form the subject of a special procedure.
5.3.2.2 - Atmospheric inspection
The Contractor should regularly undertake atmospheric inspections designed to check concentrations of gas, dust and polluting
elements. Concentrations should not exceed values stipulated by
statutory texts at the different work stations.
These inspections should be separately performed on each pollutant considered in the site ventilation design. Inspection
frequency should be determined in agreement with prevention
bodies according to progress of the different construction phases.
Inspections should be performed at the face and at work stations
spread along the different ventilated sections of the structure.
They concern, in particular:
gas and fume contents carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide,
nitrous fumes, sulphur dioxide,
dust contents,
silica contents.
Pollutant content should in all cases, at all places and at all times
remain below each threshold defined in current statutory texts,
such as French decree n 97-331 of 10th April 1997 concerning
silica dust concentration in workplaces.
Results of the Contractor inspection should be forwarded each
week to the Engineer and each document should include at least:
the type of pollution measuring apparatus and the data processing measures,
the alarm system used to undertake evacuation of all underground personnel in the event that an authorized threshold is
exceeded,
the detailed report addressed to the Engineer and the Health
and Safety Coordinator indicating in particular:
- the measured pollution level,
- the immediate measures taken on site,
- the origin and causes of exceeding the threshold along with the
measures taken to remedy this in the future.
When possible, the Contractor should propose complementing
these measurements with permanent recording devices for certain
pollutants; in this case, the Contractor ventilation project should
detail the characteristics and prices of equipment used.
5.3.2.3 - Technical inspections
Contractor inspections concern all mechanical components included in the ventilation design, not only fans and ducting, but also
special systems such as dust extraction installations and gas treatment devices.
24
For ducting, these inspections should be specifically based on the

following points:
leaks,
connection airtightness defects,
suspensions and fixings,
accumulation of water or dust at irregular points.
With regard to fans, inspections should be based on fan effective
operating points and on servicing operations foreseen by the
manufacturer.
With regard to all other devices, whose function is to eliminate
partly or fully a given pollutant produced by construction machinery or site activity itself, inspections should endeavor to check
that the efficiency of these devices conforms effectively with what
has been taken into account in the pollution treatment design.
In the special case of dust extractors, these inspections shall be
based, in particular, on:
filters
sedimentation in supply ducts,
dust control as far as the point of discharge,
water supply and condition of nozzles for wet process dust
extractors.
5.3.3 - External inspection
External inspection, performed by a specialist body commissioned
by the Engineer, features the following assignments.
For ventilation installations:
checking the terms of the Contractor's technical memorandum
during contract finalisation,
reviewing dimensioning-related performance procedures, calculations and phasing,
clearing check points during the different installation modifications.
For atmospheric quality:
defining, right from the Contractors design stage, inspection
means and measuring methods (measuring apparatus, maximum level not to be exceeded, etc.) for all identified pollution
phenomena (gases, fumes, dust, hygrometry, temperature) to be
monitored during construction not only underground, but also
in the open air,
ensuring on-site compliance with procedures decided and planned
for critical or check points,
monitoring poorly ventilated volumes underground (side drifts,
garages, recesses, etc.) that may be penetrated by toxic gases,
keeping a logbook in which the different results are recorded.
5.3.4 - Measuring apparatus
5.3.4.1 - Flow rate measurement
Flow rate is usually calculated from measured air velocity and the
duct cross-section. Different types of apparatus can be used to
measure air velocity.
25
www.aftes.asso.fr - 2008
Safety logbook
- Every 12 months
- stocks of gas protection General checking

filter cartridges for
protective breathing
apparatus
Safety logbook
Safety logbook
- Every 12 months
- Before issuing to a
new person
Certified body's
report
- Every 12 months
General checking
Checking and
cleaning
Checking by
certified body
- After maintenance
operation
Safety logbook
Fr. Empl. Code

Cl. 233.42.2
Order of 19.03.1993
Fr. Empl. Code Cl. 233.42.2

Order of 19.03.1993

Order of 19.03.1993
Cl. 16 (D.08.01.65)
R 233.11
Fr. Empl. Code Cl. 233-5-2

(all equipt.)
Cl 233-80 (used equipt.)
Fr. Empl. Code Cl. R 233-4
Clauses 22 and 23
(D.08.01.65)
R 233-11
Safety logbook
- Before commissioning
- After failure,
incident, after
disassembly
followed by assembly,
modification
Statutory
references
Record
of frequency
Minimum
frequency
General checking
- equipment for personal

protection against falls
- inflatable life
jackets
- all equipment
Personal protective
equipment
- At Work Inspector's
demand
Testing
Checking
Examination
All working
equipment
- At Organisation
Manager's request
Type
of intervention
Equipment
Installation
Qualified person
Organisation
Manager
Certified body
Qualified person
(skilled)
Persons in charge
of checking
Person in charge
of intervention
TABLE OF MAIN STATUTORY EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATION CHECKS
List kept at
disposal
of Work
Inspectorate
Notes
26
Leakage
inspections
Dust coverage
inspection
Measurement
Measurement
Drums, basins and

storage tanks containing
corrosive products
Silica
Noise
Noisy premises
- Periodic general
checking
Checking
- Every 6 months
- Periodic general
checking
Electrical installations
- Every 6 months
- Periodic general
checking
. Permanently installed
equipment and
accessories
. Permanently uninstalled
elevators subjected to
frequent displacement
. Work station elevators
Initial - Periodic
On formal demand of
Work Inspectorate
After exceeding limiting

values
Initial
- Every 12 months
- After commissioning
and after structural
modification
- Every 12 months
- Every 3 months
- Every 6 months
- Every 12 months
Commissioning
check
Recommissioning
check
Lifting equipment and

accessories
. All lifting equipment
and accessorie
- Periodic general
checking
- Periodic general
checking
- Every 12 months (by

installation supplier)
Checking
. Hand-moved work
station elevators
. High-level personnel
transporters
- Every 3 months
Checking and
testing
Fire fighting
. Organisation of more
than 50 persons and
premises on which
Group 1 inflammable
materials are stored
and handled (e.g.
petrol, fuel-oil, various
solvents, wood dust)
. Extinguishers
Minimum
frequency
Type
of intervention
Equipment
Installation
Decree of 14.11.1988
(Cl. 53, 54, 55)
Order of 20.12.1988
amended
Inspection
logbook +
check report
Fr. Empl. Code

R 232.8-1 to 4
R 232.8-7
Inspection
logbook
R 235.11 Order 30.08.90
Decree 10.4.97
Order 10.04.99
Fr. Empl. Code Cl. 23154.6
Order 10.04.97
Inspection
logbook
Inspection
logbook
Fr. Empl. Code Cl. R 233.43
Fr. Empl. Code

Cl. 233.11.1
Order of 09.06.1993

Order of 09.06.1993

Order of 09.06.1993

Order of 09.06.1993
Fr. Empl. Code

Cl. 233.11.1
Order of 09.06.1993
Industrial Order of
20.05.1963
C.N.M.I.H. principles
Fr. Empl. Code

Cl. R 233-40
Statutory
references
Safety logbook
Safety logbook
Safety logbook
Safety logbook
Safety logbook
Safety logbook
Safety logbook
Record
of frequency
Certified body
Employer
Employer
Certified bodies
See safety notice C9 F 01

Air compressors Compressed air receivers
See safety notice

G1 F 01
Typical site electrical
installation layout
Periodic checking
report at control
station
See circular 93 / 22
of 22.09.1993.
If external checker,
report to be attached
to safety logbook
C.N.M.I.H. (Fr. nat.

committee for certified
fire equipment)
See safety notice A6 F

01
"Lutte contre le feu"
(fire fighting)
Observations
Medical
supervision
Worker training
Medical
supervision
See Appendix B
See Appendix A
Notes

Pitot tube (measures dynamic pressure)

Hot wire anemometer
Plate anemometer
Ultrasound anemometer
The flow rate can also be measured by tracing. In this case, it is
calculated by measuring the concentration of a tracer gas emitted
by a constant amount upstream of the measuring point.
5.3.4.2 - Pressure measurement
Pressure measurements can be taken using hydrostatic, mechanical or electronic manometers.
5.3.4.3 - Gas content measurement
Gas concentration measurements can be taken using instantaneous response portable or fixed apparatus. A type of measuring
apparatus suited to the nature of the gas or gases should be used.
a) Calorimeter tubes
This apparatus is both inexpensive and easy to use. However, it
offers only mediocre accuracy and sensitivity.
b) Electrochemical cell-bed apparatus
This apparatus is easy to use. However, the measurement result
can be distorted by interference linked to simultaneous presence
of several pollutants. Furthermore, it must be regularly calibrated
to compensate for aging of the measuring cells.
c) Infrared absorption analysers
This type of apparatus allows accurate measurement of many pollutants. Furthermore, it permits the concentration of several gases
to be simultaneously measured. Infrared absorption analysers
require frequent calibration, which can only be performed by spe-
cialists, moreover they are relatively fragile and more expensive.

d) Dust measurement
Clause 3 of the French decree of 10th April 1997, concerning
health monitoring of workers exposed to crystalline silica dust,
stipulates that determination of the average crystalline silica
concentration of alveolar dust particles shall be performed in
accordance with the following standardised methods (or according to any other equivalent standardised method).
AFNOR standard NF X 43 - 295 - Dtermination par rayons X
de la concentration de dpt alvolaire de silice cristalline et
chantillonnage par dispositif coupelle rotative (type CIP 10)
[X-ray determination of the concentration of crystalline silica
alveolar deposit and sampling using a rotary cup device (CIP 10
type)].
de la fraction conventionnelle alvolaire de silice cristalline et
chantillonnage sur membrane filtrante (cyclone 10 mm) [X-ray
determination of the statutory alveolar fraction of crystalline
silica and filter membrane sampling (10 mm cyclone)].
5.3.5 - Inspection frequency
Inspection implementation and the frequency of different types
of inspection should form the subject of an agreement based on
the advancement of the different work areas, phasing of operations and different modifications to which the site is subjected as
construction progresses.
Note: external inspection will require certified bodies, the list of
which can be obtained from CRAMs [French regional health
insurance funds] or the OPPBTP [French building and civil engineering industry professional prevention body].
6 - ORGANISATION - ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

6.1 - General approach
Site ventilation represents one of the key issues in the construction of an underground structure. Its design and implementation
are therefore intimately linked to the development of the project,
as a whole, from its initiation to its completion.
The following parties intervene in a project.
The Owner
The Health / Safety Design / Construction Coordinator
The Engineer
Contractors
Public Authorities
Inspection and Prevention Bodies
All these entities have a part to play - through their opinions and
decisions - in designing and executing the project including the
design, installation and operation of site ventilation, the subject of
this recommendation.
6.1.1 - Level of intervention

of the different players
During project execution, intervention of the following three
main players will determine the final design of the works.
The Owner and his Health / Safety Coordinator
The Engineer
The Contractor
Each has a part to play in the following different project stages.
Preliminary Design
Detailed design
Construction
6.1.1.1 - Preliminary and detailed design
Owner:
- defines the Operation general programme,
- performs all the administrative procedures required for Operation execution,
27

- appoints the Health / Safety Coordinator at the design stage and

grants him the necessary authority and resources to fulfill his
assignment,
- has the Health / Safety Coordinator draw up the Operation
General Coordination Plan for Health and Safety (G.C.P.H.S),
- informs the main players of the Health / Safety Coordinators
observations.
Engineer:
- on behalf of the Owner, undertakes Operation Preliminary
Design and Detailed Design studies, checking the engineering
feasibility of the proposed works in accordance with current regulations,
- invites the Health / Safety Coordinator to meetings,
- informs the Health / Safety Coordinator of planned measures
and delivers to him all the required documents,
- takes into account the Health / Safety Coordinators observations.
6.1.1.2 - Construction
a) Owner
- performs all the administrative procedures required for Operation execution,
- appoints the Health / Safety Coordinator at construction stage
and grants him the necessary authority and resources to fulfill his
assignment,
- supervises application of the Operation GCPHS,
- takes into account the Health / Safety Coordinators observations,
- demands Special Safety and Health Protection Plans S.S.H.P.P.
from contractors,
- forms the Intercompany College for Health, Safety and Working
Conditions (I.C.H.S.W.C) if conditions are met.
b) Engineer
- ensures that ventilation construction studies meet the
programme requirements, invites the Health / Safety Coordinator
to meetings
- informs the Health / Safety Coordinator of planned measures
and delivers to him all the required documents,
- takes into account the Health / Safety Coordinators observations.
- takes part in I.C.H.S.W.C. activities,
- supervises application of the S.S.H.P.P. and implementation of
planned safety-related measures.
c) Contractor
- determines risks associated with his activity in executing the
Operation
- studies site measures in relation to the construction methods and
means proposed during the call for tenders or that are implemented during construction,
- draws up the S.S.H.P.P.,
- performs all the inspections and operations required for proper
installation operation in compliance with regulations.
6.1.2 - Parties intervening in ventilation design
The combined ventilation and site atmospheric quality control
systems should be considered a structure in their own right and
should therefore be designed as such, according to conventional
design logic for the overall structure.
28
Collection of basic data, specifically including:

- geometrical characteristics of the works,
- construction phases,
- methods used,
- different pollution source characteristics,
- determination of fresh air requirements.
Adopted ventilation principle and general characteristics,
Special measures for controlling pollution sources and protecting against risks,
Dimensioning of different units,
Construction measures, drawings and diagrams,
Implementation and inspections,
In this process, the most delicate stage is the design of the ventilation system and the choice of methods allowing the sites fresh
air requirements to be met.
6.2 - Contractor consultation

The choice of ventilation system and determination of air flow
rates depend generally on the excavation method and implementation means.
The tender file should therefore contain a number of specific
items concerning site ventilation and environment physical
conditions.
The latter point should include:
ground properties,
presence of silica, asbestos,
radioactivity,
gases - methane, etc.,
temperature conditions.
Site ventilation is a work item in its own right and it is therefore
recommended that payment for ventilation systems be clearly
characterised in tender documents by one of the following
methods:
preferably, by a set of unit prices accompanied by a bill of quantities showing the different parts of the installation, special units
and power cost to ensure ventilation payment reflects accurately
its implementation,
possibly, by a lump sum price paid in several installments; in this
case, the Contractor must provide a break-down of his proposed
lump sums, i.e.:
- xx% on completion of general ventilation installations,
- xx% xx months after initial payment,
- xx% after installation disassembly and equipment removal.
It is also recommended that external air quality control be subject
to separate payment.
6.3 - Contractor's ventilation project

6.3.1 - Technical offer
The Contractor should submit with his overall tender a site ventilation project to justify the ventilation systems adequacy for the
proposed construction methods.
The Contractor should endeavour to seek solutions that limit

pollution emission to a minimum and that, in particular, favour

resorting to electrical equipment.
Priority should be given to extracting gases, fumes and dust as
near as possible to the pollution emission areas to collect pollutants at source (face excavation, center core excavation, support
erection area, lining area, etc.).
If these conditions cannot be set up (temporary work areas,
etc.), auxiliary blowing ventilation should be installed to prevent
persistence of dead areas.
The tender should include:
all necessary information concerning ventilation dimensioning,
all implementation restrictions concerning tunnel construction
equipment.
The following points should be particularly detailed:
- assumptions concerning fresh air or extraction requirements
with respect to work to be performed,
- ventilation principle and diagrams (blowing-extraction, etc.),
- ventilation and electrical calculations,
- fan characteristics (flow rates, pressures, positions),
- duct characteristics,
- special devices and characteristics of implemented equipment
such as dust extractors, mufflers, etc.
6.3.2 - Cost
Whether it be clearly identified in the contract by a set of unit prices and/or by a lump sum price under "Ventilation equipment
installation", or whether it be considered included under "General site installations", the cost of ventilation equipment should
include:
availability of all ventilation equipment required for executing
the underground works,
commissioning and performance tests,
routine ventilation servicing and maintenance,
equipment reorganisation, adjustment, strengthening and
movement throughout the construction period and in relation
to construction phases,
routine servicing and maintenance of meter cabinet allowing

power consumption to be measured,
equipment installation design to be submitted to the Engineer
for approval and which features:
- ventilation design for all site configurations,
- installation dimensioning,
- provision of equipment drawings.
operation monitoring procedures and, in particular, ventilation
performance measurements to be regularly taken (we recommend every month) as the driving face advances and as the ventilation ducting becomes longer, along with pollution level
monitoring measurements, in accordance with the G.C.P.H.S.,
power consumptions,
installation removal.
6.3.3 - Construction
When executing the project, the Contractor should specify detailed measures embodied in the technical solution chosen at the time
of tendering and the means he will adopt for its implementation.
During the construction phase, the ventilation project should
specifically feature:
drawings showing the general ventilation installation (fans, ducting, portal frames, etc.), electrical installations (transformers,
cabinets, etc.) and special installations (dust extractors, mufflers,
etc.),
the programme of phases and diagrams required for performing
the work (advancing of face and polluting work areas, etc.),
supporting calculations for ventilation installations and their
characteristics for each construction phase.
Assumptions made concerning gas, fume and dust emissions
should be checked in the construction design for each face advance
phase and each type of work area composition concerned.
The construction study should also consider possible leaks in the
duct network and interference between different underground
localised construction areas.
7 - STATUTORY TEXTS
7.1 - Regulation
7.2 - Standards
French decree n 84-1093 of 7th December 1984 "Aration et

assainissement" [aeration and purification]
French decree n 97-331 of 10th April 1997 concerning protection of certain workers exposed to inhalation of silica dust particles in their workplaces.
French decree n 2001-97 of 1st February 2001 concerning special rules for preventing carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic risks
for reproduction.
French decree n 2001-1016 of 5th November 2001 prompting
creation of a document concerning the assessment of worker
health and safety risks foreseen by clause L 230-2 (amendment)
of the French Employment Code.
French Employment Code - Orders of 15/3/1953 and
9/6/1993.

de la concentration de dpt alvolaire de silice cristalline et
chantillonnage par dispositif coupelle rotative (type CIP 10)
[X-ray determination of the concentration of crystalline silica
alveolar deposit and sampling using a rotary cup device (CIP 10
type)].
de la fraction conventionnelle alvolaire de silice cristalline et
chantillonnage sur membrane filtrante (cyclone 10 mm) [X-ray
determination of the statutory alveolar fraction of crystalline
silica and filter membrane sampling (10 mm cyclone)].
AFNOR standard NF X 44-052 Dtermination des dbits des
ventilateurs sur le site [Determination of fan flow rates on site].
29

APPENDICES
CONTENTS
Pages
1 - APPENDIX 1 DIMENSIONING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1 - Dimensioning of ventilation components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
100
100
1.1.1 - Design assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.1.2 - Design principles Basic equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.2.1 - Head losses in ventilation ducting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.2.2 - Fan design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.2.3 - Special design case of tunnel network ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.2.4 - Atmospheric data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
100
100
100
101
101
102
1.2 - Calculation outcome Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.3 - Final design - Implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
102
102
2 - APPENDIX II - GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
103
APPENDIX 1 - DIMENSIONING
1.1 - Dimensioning
of ventilation components
Site ventilation system design should be undertaken so as to
demonstrate that fresh air flow rates and adopted measures allow
the stipulated limiting values to be respected at all points and
during each construction phase.
Ventilation calculations are based on basic laws of fluid mechanics. They should enable the following characteristics to be determined:
the number, position and characteristics of the fans installed,
the optimum diameter and characteristics of ducting,
the power consumptions of the ventilation system.
1.1.1 - Design assumptions
To be able to perform simply the calculations, a number of
assumptions concerning air behaviour should be taken into
account:
air is considered incompressible for the pressure level commonly
encountered in site ventilation,
steady flow conditions prevail,
"pipe"-type turbulent flow head losses are considered.
1.1.2 - Design principles - Basic equations
Air circulation in a network comprises fans, ventilation ducting
and tunnels, in which the air is distributed, and causes head losses
that have to be evaluated: this is the purpose of ventilation design.
30
The basic Bernoulli equation complemented by a term characterising the head losses between two points of a duct allows us to
state:
where:
H
p
g
z
V
flow head (Pa)

static pressure in section (Pa)
air density (kg/m3)
acceleration due to gravity (m/s2)
elevation of considered cross-section (m)
discharge velocity of air in section (m 3/s) = flow
rate/cross-section
Generally, the total head loss H equals the sum of the head losses
per unit length (friction head losses) H F caused by fluid friction
along the duct walls and the irregular head losses H S associated
with streamline separation or turbulence generation when passing
obstacles or irregular points.
Note: given the low density of air (1.2 kg/m3 at 20 C), the term
gz is usually neglected.
1.1.2.1 - Head losses in ventilation ducting
The pressure delivered by the fan should take into account head
losses generated by the unit itself, accessories (soundproofing,

outlets, etc.), ventilation ducting, duct and connection leakage

and all construction phases, which are often characterised by
increasing duct length.
In some cases, head losses due to tunnel air flow should be considered.
The total pressure delivered by the fan is therefore obtained by
evaluating all head losses.
a) Symboles
L (m)
duct length
dx (m)
length of duct section concerned (i)
hydraulic diameter of duct or section (= 4.S./PH)
DH (m)
cross-section of duct or section
S (m2)
wetted perimeter of duct or section
PH (m)
3
(kg/m )
air density (usual value = 1.2 kg/m3 at 20 C)
v (m/s)
air flow velocity in duct (no leaks)
dv (m/s)
velocity variation in section (i)
vx (m/s)
air flow velocity in section (i) at abscissa x
px (Pa)
static pressure in section (i) at abscissa x
dp (Pa)
pressure variation in section (i)
irregularity coefficient (inlet, outlet, elbows,

narrowing, vents, leaks, etc.)
average friction coefficient for duct section

2
2
'(mm /m ) ratio of leakage area to peripheral area
(i)
duct section identification number
(x)
abscissa within duct starting from origin x = 0
b) Head loss calculation
Friction head losses in duct
- For a section without leaks (constant air velocity)
2
Pfriction = . L .
v
2
DH
- For a section with leaks (velocity variation)
velocity variation:
Note: a network has always points featuring airtightness defects,

small tears or imperfect joints between duct sections. For calculation purposes, we accept that these inevitable defects are uniformly distributed throughout the length of the considered section and that leakage losses are proportional to leakage area and
leak air flow velocity.
This design method does not take into account major isolated
leaks because these can be easily detected and eliminated.
Head loss at irregular points
pirregular
Example: local narrowing of duct cross-section
Value can be obtained from specialised catalogues, for example

that of I.C. Idel-Cik.
Flexible duct classes
The following 3 major classes of flexible ducting used in ventilation networks and defined in the Swiss Sia Recommendation are
retained.
Quality class S ducting: new ducts erected very carefully and
well, regularly maintained and made up of long sections ( 100
m) with few couplings (very small leaks and low friction losses).
Quality class A ducting: new, properly maintained ducts erected
to ensure a low risk of damage (minimal airtightness defects and
friction losses), characteristics allowable only for execution by
"successive phases".
Quality class B ducting: regularly maintained ducts in service for
some time or reused (moderately large airtightness defects and
friction losses).
Friction and irregular loss coefficients
Pfriction
Friction losses in ducting (blowing and/or extraction ducts)

Ducting class
Friction coefficient
Metal
0,010 0,015
Concrete
Flexible
pressure variation:
Pfriction
0,015 0,02
Duct class S
0,015
Duct class A
0,018
Duct class B
0,024
Spiraducts (spiral ducting)
> 0,025 depending on design
31

Facing class
Friction losses in tunnels (air circulation)

Friction coefficient
Concrete or masonry walls
0,02
TBM excavation
0,02 0,05
Excavation by blasting without support
0,04 0,10
Excavation by blasting with support
0,06 0,15
Leakage losses in flexible ducting

Leakage area f'
Leakage coefficient
m2/m2
(airtightness defects)
Duct class S
5 . 10-5
Flexible Duct class A
10 . 10-5
De 0,10 20
Duct class B
20 . 10-5
Spiragaines
5 20. 10-5
De 0,10 20
Ducting class
Irregular losses
Irregularities
Free air intake
Air intake with grill
Discharge
Extraction louver
Coefficient
24
0,2 40
1
0,1 0,5
Contraction
0,05 0,2
Diffuser
0,05 0,35
Sudden narrowing
0,05 0,60
Sudden widening
0,05 1
Isolating damper
0,15 0,3
45 elbow
0,1 0,25
90 elbow
0,15 0,8
Branch
0,1 1,3
1.1.2.2 - Fan design

a) Pressure
Fan pressure (total fan P) is the sum of all friction and irregular
losses and allows the fan power to be determined. A fixed static
pressure reserve (Pfixed) is added for possible circuit modification
(phasing) and a static pressure reserve to take into account wind
action at the tunnel portal and snow cover.
b) Fan selection
For each air flow rate, fan characteristic curves show the total pressure difference between cross-sections determined, on the one
hand, on the fan extraction side and, on the other hand, on the
fan delivery side. If these two cross-sections are equal, the dynamic pressure is also equal on both sides of the fan and an increase
in total pressure corresponds to an increase in static pressure.
c) Electrical power
Electrical power depends on the total pressure P, on the flow Q
calculated at the fan, and on fan efficiency and motor performance.
N (kW) fan electrical power

Q (m3/s) fan flow rate
P (Pa) fan total head loss
ventilation efficiency coefficient
v
(from fan performance chart)
motor performance coefficient
M
(according to manufacturer's data)
Generally, overall efficiency is in the order of 0,6 0,7.
If frequency-based variable speed controls are used, their efficiency coefficients should be considered in addition to that of the
motor.
d) Use of booster fans
For phasing modifications, the required pressure may exceed the
design pressure. In this case, the use of booster fans can provide an
economical solution. The combined fan power (tunnel portal fans
+ booster fans) may be less than the pressure required for fans
installed in series at the tunnel portal (see diagram on following
page).
Several simple rules may use the booster circuit defined in the
Swiss recommendation:
a steel tube of length L 5 Dn should be erected at the end of
flexible duct section n, which can be reduced by the extraction
flow caused by the negative pressure generated by the fan in the
next duct section n+1,
compared with duct section n+1, the air flow in duct section n
should be sufficient to prevent the fan in duct section n+1 from
extracting tunnel air instead of fresh air supplied by duct section n,
the internal diameter Dn+1 of the duct section n+1 cone should
be 0.8 Dn and the distance d between the end of duct section n
and the duct section n+1 cone should satisfy the following condition: 0.5Dn d 1.0 Dn
air quantity Qn should exceed quantity 10-20 % la quantit Qn+1
1.1.2.3 - Special design case of tunnel
network ventilation
Leakage losses are virtually inexistent in a tunnel or shaft. The
usual pipe flow equations - total losses made up of friction and
irregular head losses - therefore apply to an air circulation-based
ventilation system.
P totale du ventilateur P forfaitaire
32

1.1.2.4. Atmospheric data

a) Variation in air density
The table below gives the characteristics of the international standard atmosphere for a 0 - 2000 m altitude range.
In an air circulation-based system, dynamic pressure losses are low
(same velocity between tunnel and extraction outlet). However, if
the rock thermal gradient is high, the pressure differences resulting from air specific mass variations due to average temperature
variations should be considered.
Altitude
(m)
Temperature
(C)
Pressure
(hPa)
Air
density
(kg/m3)
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
1800
2000
15
13,7
12,4
11,1
9,8
8,5
7,2
5,9
4,6
3,3
2
1013
989
966
943
921
899
877
856
835
815
794
1,23
1,2
1,18
1,16
1,13
1,11
1,09
1,07
1,05
1,03
1,01
b) Atmospheric influences
Pressure differences that are significant for total pressure calculation can occur in air circulation-based systems featuring long
shafts or inclines. The additional pressure required from the fan
should therefore be taken into account.
The following expression provides an initial approximation of the
pressure difference.
h
e
p
pressure difference (Pa)

shaft depth [m]
external air density (kg/m3)
air density in shaft (kg/m3)
Moreover, for meteorological reasons, pressure differences of up

to 100 Pa can occur between tunnel or horizontal gallery entrances
(sometimes called portals).
c) Fog formation
Under certain conditions, fog formation may be observed, which
can be extremely disruptive to work. For example, this can occur
when laying a road asphalt in a particularly humid atmosphere.
This also occurs in tunnel networks and especially in mines.
During excavation of the ventilation shaft for the Frjus Tunnel,
fog formed at the Alimak heading breakthrough into the full bore
shaft due to expansion of warm air coming from the tunnel.
The ventilation system should be adapted such that the dew point
can be controlled.
In the case of extraction ventilation in winter, fresh air can freeze
water inflows near the tunnel entrance. This problem should
therefore be taken into account when designing the ventilation
system.
1.2 - Calculation outcome - Interpretation

In general, ventilation calculation results should not lead to the
operating limits for the equipment selected and the installation.
Validity of the design solution can only be retained if it is associated with a sensitivity study, in which construction conditions
should be considered as leeway: increase in number of polluting
machines, lengthening of site to be ventilated (case of driving
from both ends of a tunnel), etc.
1.3 - Final design - Implementation

Dimensioning having been performed on the worst case involving
the most constraints (assumptions and sensitivity study), the suitability of the solution retained to the different cases that will arise
during construction should then be studied.
Ventilation system design should consider constraints involving
equipment installation, extension and movement of different
units (fans, ventubes), passing through successive work areas,
construction of ancillary structures as well as performance of all
finishing work, concrete lining, painting, asphalt. Production of
diagrams for each site configuration will lead to a proper understanding of measures adopted.
33

APPENDIX II - GLOSSARY
Ventilation systems
Blowing
Air forced through ducting extended to work locations
Extraction
Air extracted by ducting at work locations
Circulation
System circulating air by creating a pressure difference between two distant points in a circuit
Reversible ventilation
System operating either in blowing or in extraction mode
Additional ventilation
Additional ventilation system complementing main system to deal with a specific aspect (e.g. fume dilution)
Fans
Axial or helical fan
Propeller fan with blades driving air along impeller axis
Radial or centrifugal fan
Paddle wheel fan driving air by centrifugal action
Fans in series
Fans mounted one after the other in the same circuit creating increased pressure for a given flow
Fans in parallel
Fans mounted side by side, connected to the same circuit, creating increased flow for a given pressure
Accelerator
Fan creating dynamic pressure (this type of fan is never associated with ducting) causing air displacement directly
in the tunnel (or circuit open section)
Ventilation circuit
Entire air flow route from fresh air intake to foul air discharge including, in particular, fans, ducting and all devices to be
considered in relation to circuit resistance
Muffler
Static device intended to reduce the noise level of a fan
Characteristic curve
density
Curve expressing relationship between fan pressure and flow rate for given rotational speed, blade orientation and air
Pressure difference
Total pressure rise (static and dynamic) between fan inlet and outlet cross-sections
Head
Resistance of all or part of a circuit downstream of a fan or accelerator
Volume flow rate
Quantity of air supplied by a fan per unit time
Ducting
Ventilation duct
Flexible or rigid tube for conveying air between two points in an air circuit, excluding fans and associated devices
(soundproofing device, damper, distributor)
Duct sections
Flexible or rigid components forming a duct when assembled
Air pipe
A ventilation duct (by common understanding)
Ventube
Flexible ventilation duct (by common understanding)
Ventube magazine
(ventube cassette)
Device allowing several ventube sections to be stored and unfolded as excavation advances
Ducting suspension
Fixing components allowing ducting to be suspended from tunnel walls
Leak
Air lost through a duct airtightness defect
Damper
Unit installed in air circuit allowing air flow circulating through circuit to be controlled or circuit to be shut off
Distributor
Unit installed in air circuit allowing air to be distributed at a meeting point of two separate ducts
Dust extraction
Dry process
Device separating dust particles by dry-fixing to sleeve, bag or plate filters
Wet process
Device separating dust particles by vaporisation or water curtain wet-fixing
34

Ventilation flow rates

Q
Duct flow rate (m3/s)
QS
Blowing fan flow rate (m3/s)
QA
Extraction fan flow rate (m3/s)
QDdf
Air flow rate for diluting diesel engine exhaust fumes at face (m3/s)
QDda
Air flow rate for diluting diesel engine exhaust fumes in work areas (m3/s)
QDdr
Air flow rate for diluting diesel engine exhaust fumes from haulage (m3/s)
QDdt
Total air flow rate for diluting diesel engine exhaust fumes (m3/s)
QEpr
Air flow rate for discharging haulage dust (m3/s)
QCpt
Air flow rate for collecting blast dust (m3/s)
QCpp
Air flow rate for collecting roadheader dust (m3/s)
QCprb
Air flow rate for collecting shotcreting robot dust (m3/s)
QCpbr
Air flow rate for collecting rockbreaker dust (m3/s)
QCpa
Total air flow rate for collecting work area dust (m3/s)
QACC
Accelerator flow rate

Ventilation power
Fan power (kW) Nominal / Thermal output / At impeller
NS
Blowing fan power (kW)
NA
Extraction fan power (kW)
NACC
Accelerator power
Characteristic values, Units and Symbols
Flow head (static p + dynamic p) (Pa)
Static pressure in section (Pa)
Acceleration due to gravity (m/s2)
Elevation of considered cross-section (m)
Characteristic cross-section of duct or tunnel section (m2)
Characteristic diameter of duct or tunnel section (m)
HF = P friction
Head losses due to friction on duct walls - Friction losses (Pa)
HS = P irregular
Irregular head losses (change of direction, widening, junction, etc.) (Pa)
H
Total head loss in circuit (Pa)
p
Pressure difference (Pa)
h
Depth of shaft or between two circuit ends (m)
dx
Length of duct or tunnel section (m)
dp
Pressure variation in duct or tunnel section (Pa)
dp /dx
Pressure gradient along duct or tunnel section (Pa/m)
dv
Flow velocity variation in duct or tunnel section (m/s)
dv/dx
Flow velocity variation along duct section (m/s)
Length of circuit, duct or tunnel (m)
Pdyn
Dynamic pressure = v2 (Pa)

2
Pfixed
Fixed static pressure (Pa)
Ptot
Total pressure (Pa)
Air temperature (C)
35

Characteristic values, Units and Symbols
V
vx
Px
x
- e - p
'
M
V
Air flow velocity in duct = flow rate / cross-section (m/s)

Air flow velocity in duct section at abscissa x (m/s)
Static pressure in section at abscissa x (Pa)
Abscissa along duct axis (m)
Air density (kg/m3) (e = exterior / p = shaft)
Friction head loss coefficient of duct or tunnel (dimensionless)
Irregular head loss coefficient (dimensionless)
Ratio of leakage area to peripheral area (mm2/m2)
Motor performance coefficient (dimensionless) = shaft power / thermal output
Fan efficiency coefficient (dimensionless) = ventilation power / shaft power
Limiting values
A.E.V.
Average exposure limiting value of a polluting product
E.L.V.
Short term exposure limiting value of a polluting product

Official bodies
C.N.A.M.
Caisse Nationale d'Assurance Maladie (French national health insurance fund)
C.R.A.M.
Caisse Rgionale d'Assurance Maladie (French regional health insurance fund)
C.G.S.S.
Caisse Gnrale de Scurit Sociale (French social security general fund)
O.P.P.B.T.P.
Organisme Professionnel de Prvention du Btiment et des Travaux Publics (French professional prevention
body for the building and civil engineering industry)
D.D.T.E.
Direction Dpartementale du Travail et de l'Emploi (French departmental employment office
D.R.T.E.
Direction Rgionale du Travail et de l'Emploi (French regional employment office
D.R.I.R.E.
Direction Rgionale de l'Industrie, de la Recherche et de l'Environnement (French regional department

for industry, research and the environment)
C.C.A.G.
Cahier des Clauses Administratives Gnrales (French general administrative conditions of contract for public works)
C.C.T.G.
Cahier des Clauses Techniques Gnrales (French general technical conditions of contract for public works)
P.S.
Preliminary Studies
P.D.
Preliminary Design
D.D.
Detailed Design
S.D.
Structural Design
C.C.F.
Contractor Consultation File
Design / Contract documents
Coordination
C.I.S.S.C.T.
Collge Inter-entreprise pour la Scurit, la Sant et les Conditions de Travail

(Intercompany Committee for Health, Safety and Working Conditions / ICHS-WC)
S.P.S.
Scurit et Protection de la Sant (Safety and health protection)
P.P.S.P.S.
Plan Particulier de Scurit et de Protection de la Sant (Special Safety and Health Protection Plan / S.S.H.P.P.)
D.I.U.O.
Dossier d'Interventions Ultrieures sur l'Ouvrage (Structural Retrofitting File / S.R.F.)
36
www.aftes.asso.fr
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GT27R1A1 Ventilation of Underground Works During Construction

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ASSOCIATION FRANAISE DES TUNNELS

AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1

Ventilation of underground works

A. GUILLAUME (SOCATOP) - G. PIQUEREAU (CAMPENON TP) - P. LONGCHAMP (BOUYGUES)

* Jean PHILIPPE contributed extensively to initiating and setting up the W.G.

1 - INTRODUCTION TO THE RECOMMENDATION . . . . . . . .

1.2.1 - Three basic principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.3 - Area of application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.3.1 - Atmospheric quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.1.1 - Pollution treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.2 - General ventilation system concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.2.1 - Blowing ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.3 - Input data - Design assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Publication en franais dans TUNNELS ET OUVRAGES SOUTERRAINS n 176

AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1

3.3.1 - Characteristics specific to structures and ground . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.4 - Ventilation principles retained and general measures . . . . . . . .

3.4.1 - Dust treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.2 - Implementation and installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Publication en franais dans TUNNELS ET OUVRAGES SOUTERRAINS n 176

4.2.2 - Ventilation ducting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.3 - Ventilation procedures and instructions for use . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.4.1 - Collective protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5 - MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.2.1 - Training and information of maintenance personnel . . . . . . . . . . .

6 - ORGANISATION - ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK . . . .

6.1.1 - Level of intervention of the different players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.2 - Contractor consultation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.3.1 - Technical offer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.1.1 - Design assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.2 - Calculation outcome - Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1

1 - INTRODUCTION TO THE RECOMMENDATION

1.2 - General approach to ventilation

1.3 - Area of application

Publication en franais dans TUNNELS ET OUVRAGES SOUTERRAINS n 176

AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1

when a fire occurs during construction, is not dealt with in this

2.1 - Risk identification procedure

Publication en franais dans TUNNELS ET OUVRAGES SOUTERRAINS n 176

2.2 - Prevention rules

AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1

Give appropriate instructions to workers.

2.3 - Risk analysis

2.3.2.2 - Air quality and work station comfort

Publication en franais dans TUNNELS ET OUVRAGES SOUTERRAINS n 176

AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1

The E.L.V. or short-term Exposure Limiting Value represents the

In this case, the ventilation conditions should be maintained to

In this case, whatever i is, if one of the above inequalities is not

Publication en franais dans TUNNELS ET OUVRAGES SOUTERRAINS n 176

Cns represents the concentration of non silicogeneous alveolar

AFTES Guidelines GT27-R1A1

tions. Original document references feature in the "references"

Carbon dioxide CO2

Fr. Dept. of Employment Circular + Directive 91/322

Nitrogen dioxide NO2

Fr. Dept. of Employment Circular + Directive 91/322

b) Diesel exhaust values

Dioxyde de carbone CO2

Fr. Dept. of Employment Circular + Directive 91/332

Fr. Dept. of Employment Circular + Directive 91/332

Fr. Dept. of Employment Circular + Directive 91/332

Fr. Dept. of Employment Circular + Directive 91/332