- Ensure all personnel hold valid PTS and tunnel-specific safety briefing certification
- Identify and brief all workers on positions of safety and refuge locations before entry
- Confirm the possession is in place and track isolation verified before entering the tunnel
- Carry personal gas monitors to detect oxygen depletion and toxic gas build-up
- Maintain continuous communication between tunnel teams and the COSS at all times
- Carry a personal torch and check emergency lighting is operational before entry
- Wear appropriate RPE where diesel fume or dust exposure cannot be eliminated
- Follow the agreed evacuation plan immediately if an emergency alarm is raised
- Check ventilation fans are operational before and throughout the working period
- Confirm OLE isolation or third rail discharge before working near electrified track
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- DON'T enter a rail tunnel without confirmed possession and track isolation
- DON'T remove or switch off personal gas monitors while inside the tunnel
- DON'T work beyond the agreed time limit for the possession in the tunnel
- DON'T block emergency evacuation routes with materials, plant, or equipment
- DON'T assume the tunnel atmosphere is safe — monitor continuously throughout
- DON'T approach OLE or third rail unless confirmed isolated and earthed
- DON'T rely solely on hearing for train warnings — noise levels mask signals
- DON'T enter without knowing the location of all positions of safety and refuges
- DON'T use petrol-powered equipment inside tunnels due to carbon monoxide risk
- DON'T work alone or out of sight of other team members inside a rail tunnel
See also: Rail Safety Awareness | Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) Safety
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