Hazard Knowledge

In addition to the hazards of working on or near railways, rail-related incidents that are located underground or in tunnels present additional or amplified hazards, including:

• Disorientation, due to:
  • Repetition of features
  • Lack of wayfinder indicators, such as signage or landmarks
• Reduced visibility
• Restricted communication
• Extended access, egress and evacuation distances
• Lack of railway staff at or near to the scene of the incident
• High temperatures
• If the incident involves rail passengers they may:
  • Become distressed, which may lead to attempts to self-evacuate
  • Suffer from heat illness