BS6164 ( BS 6164) is a British Standard that guides the construction industry on how to comply with health and safety requirements in tunnelling. It is written for those who are involved in the design, management or operation of tunnels.
It was first published BS6163 by the Health and Safety Executive in 1986 as an advisory document, but it has now been replaced by BS6164 which came into force on 1 January 2016. This article aims to explain BS6164, explore how particle monitors can improve tunnelling safety and reduce risk, as well as how to minimize the environmental impact of diesel emissions.
Compliance in Tunnelling: Explaining BS6164
BS6164 covers topics such as ventilation, access control systems, emergency planning arrangements and plant insurance fire protection requirements. It also includes details about diesel emissions affecting other aspects of our environment like air quality.
BS6164 outlines specific rules for how to work safely in tunnels and other confined spaces. It also includes guidelines for how to identify hazards and risks; as well as what protective equipment should be worn when working in these environments. The standard was written by experts who studied high-risk workplaces like mines, quarries, sewers, railroads and deep foundations.
The Environmental Impact of Diesel Emission: How to Minimize Risk with Particle Monitors
Many people are unaware of the environmental impact that diesel emissions have on our planet. Diesel emissions and their environmental impact is a hot topic in many countries. In order to get an accurate assessment of the risks associated with diesel emissions for tunnelling projects, particle monitors are key.
The Effect of Diesel Emissions on the Environment
Diesel engines emit nitrogen dioxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO) and non-methane hydrocarbons, diesel plume as well as particles that contribute to atmospheric pollution. The full impact on human health depends not only on the level of emission but also on factors such as exposure time and frequency, which can vary significantly from one site to another.
Particulate matter (PM) is the term used to describe a wide range of tiny particles found in the air. The size and chemical composition of PM determines how harmful it is to humans. Diesel particulate matter (DPM) consists of small particles that are released when diesel fuel is burned. These particles can cause respiratory problems, heart disease and other health problems.
In addition to its impact on human health, diesel emissions have other adverse effects on the environment. They contribute to global warming by releasing greenhouse gases such as CO² and NOx, which react with sunlight to produce ozone. Ozone causes breathing difficulties, damages crops and forests, and contributes to climate change.
Why Do You Need a Particle Monitor in Tunnelling?
Particle monitors are important in tunnelling projects because diesel engines release harmful particles into the atmosphere that can be dangerous to workers and cause major damage to the environment when exposed for long periods of time. Some diesel plumes have been found to emit levels up to 300mg/m^ which is over 100 times higher than what’s considered safe by OSHA for an eight-hour day, not including any other safety measures implemented at a worksite.
The presence of particle monitor technology helps reduce risk while also improving environmental protection by minimizing exposure and eliminating potential hazards created from diesel emissions.
Particle Monitors work by detecting particles smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter so they can be used for a variety of applications including monitoring mining, construction sites, power plants and other types of industrial facilities where there are elevated levels of harmful or toxic substances being released into the air.
Conclusion
BS6164 is an essential document for anyone working in the tunnelling or construction industry. The standard is regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in health and safety, and it provides comprehensive guidance on how to safely undertake tunnelling operations. It provides practical guidance on how to comply with health and safety requirements and minimise the impact of diesel emissions on the environment. For more information, don’t hesitate to visit our website.