Factors in the provision of respiratory protective equipment for escape and rescue in tunnelling.

The statutory background to the provision of self-rescuers and breathing apparatus in the UK is set out and relevant British/European standards are noted. Atmospheric contaminants presenting an acute risk to workers underground are listed. Three types of self-rescuer are commonly available in the UK: filter self-rescuers to remove carbon monoxide, compressed or chemical oxygen self-rescuers and compressed air suppliers, which typically last only 5-15 mins. Breathing apparatus for rescue teams requires much greater duration than self-rescuers. Issues discussed include factors affecting duration, penetration distance, voice communication, storage of self-rescuers, inspection and maintenance of respiratory equipment, training and oxygen toxicity. A commercially available compressed oxygen self-rescuer has been modified to produce a prototype capable of providing a respirable gas supply at all working pressures.
The statutory background to the provision of self-rescuers and breathing apparatus in the UK is set out and relevant British/European standards are noted. Atmospheric contaminants presenting an acute risk to workers underground are listed. Three types of self-rescuer are commonly available in the UK: filter self-rescuers to remove carbon monoxide, compressed or chemical oxygen self-rescuers and compressed air suppliers, which typically last only 5-15 mins. Breathing apparatus for rescue teams requires much greater duration than self-rescuers. Issues discussed include factors affecting duration, penetration distance, voice communication, storage of self-rescuers, inspection and maintenance of respiratory equipment, training and oxygen toxicity. A commercially available compressed oxygen self-rescuer has been modified to produce a prototype capable of providing a respirable gas supply at all working pressures.