Success Snapshot: Station Works

Force One were tasked with providing suction excavation services for a customer facing challenging site conditions. Early ground investigation work on a major rail infrastructure upgrade presented a unique difficulty: operating within a confined tunnel under strict environmental controls, where there was zero tolerance for dust, diesel emissions, or fumes

The Challenge:

Ahead of mobilisation, the project team carried out multiple site visits to assess the environment and identify key challenges.

These included:

• Limited headroom for equipment operation
• Maintaining safe pedestrian access
• Managing noise levels
• Eliminating dust and emissions
• Working at distance from the equipment reach
• Engineering the Solution

A collaborative approach with the customer ensured each constraint was addressed effectively:

Restricted Headroom

A transfer method was implemented to allow material to be moved approximately 50 metres further down the tunnel to a location where sufficient headroom was available for the suction excavator to tip safely.

Pedestrian Safety

Temporary road plates enabled safe diversions, maintaining clear and protected walkways around the work zone.

Noise Management

Local businesses were contacted in advance using the FOL provided specification sheet and decibel (dB) readings. Additionally, appropriate hearing protection was issued to all personnel involved in the works to mitigate noise exposure

Dust and Emissions Control

FOL deployed an electric Brokk Remote Nozzle Unit, ensuring that the generator powering the unit was positioned outside the tunnel. Dust was effectively controlled and extracted at source using the nozzle, supported by correct air lance techniques and fully sealed pipework to prevent leakage.

Extended Operating Distance

The permitted location for diesel-powered equipment was over 100 metres from the suction excavator. To overcome this, Force One utilised its RSP Quad-Fan Unit, enabling material to be conveyed over this distance efficiently while maintaining safe and productive operations.

Results:

Overall the suction excavation works were carried out successfully and within the unique parameters of the project location.