Balfour Beatty is one of the UK’s leading infrastructure groups, delivering complex engineering projects across energy, transport, and construction. At Hinkley Point C, the company is playing a key role in the construction of critical tunnel connections that will carry water between the nuclear power station and the Bristol Channel. During Phase 2 of the works, which involved linking three existing tunnels to six offshore head connections, the workforce operating underground tripled in size – creating an urgent need for additional, reliable self-rescue equipment to maintain the highest levels of safety.
Challenges:
During Phase 2 of the Hinkley Point C tunnel construction, Balfour Beatty faced a rapid expansion of its workforce – tripling from 20 to 60 personnel per tunnel as new head connections were established at sea.
The increase created an urgent demand for additional Self-Contained Self-Rescuers (SCSRs). Unfortunately, the incumbent supplier could not meet the critical lead times required, risking delays to the project.
At the same time, existing SCSRs on site weighed over 5kg each. With personnel needing the ability to evacuate up to 3.5km underground, the heavy units placed significant physical strain on wearers.
Solution:
MineARC was approached to provide an alternative solution that would be both readily available and fit-for-purpose.
The recommended DEZEGA CARBO 60 is a lightweight, compact SCSR that delivers:
- 60 minutes of oxygen supply;
- A compact design weighing in at just 2.9kg – almost half that of the current units;
- A fully automatic starter that activates immediately after the lock lever is opened; and
- Is available in large quantities within a two-week turnaround.
To complement the units, MineARC also suggested the CARBOFit-400 testing device. This enables Balfour Beatty to conduct periodic in-house leak testing and inspection of their CARBO 60’s, ensuring reliability without the need for external service providers.
Results
The introduction of the CARBO 60’s immediately addressed both supply and usability challenges.
Improved Comfort & Safety
Balfour Beatty team members provided positive feedback on the reduced weight of the CARBO 60, reporting greater comfort and less exertion when moving along tunnel platforms.
Training Benefits
The self-start feature of the CARBO 60 was highlighted as a major advantage during training exercises, simplifying setup and boosting user confidence.
Operational Efficiency
With the CARBOFit-400, Balfour Beatty gained the ability to independently oversee equipment condition and compliance on-site – streamlining their inspection processes and reducing operational costs.
Sean Peacock, Refuge Chamber Consultant, at Balfour Beatty shared “personnel have given feedback that the DEZEGA CARBO 60 is a far more comfortable SCSR for the wearer when it comes to traversing along the tunnel platforms.”
He went on to say “I personally find the self-start feature of the DEZEGA CARBO 60 an added benefit when it comes to facilitating training on the use of the set.”
By partnering with MineARC, Balfour Beatty secured a rapid, reliable, and superior self-rescue solution for the Hinkley Point C project. The DEZEGA CARBO 60 not only improved safety and comfort for personnel but also reduced reliance on external servicing through the CARBOFit-400 testing system.
Looking for a dependable self-rescue solution with fast turnaround? Contact your MineARC Business Development Manager today to learn more about the CARBO 60 and CARBOFit-400.