Dr. Sauer & Partners, working with Dragados and London Underground on the Bank Station Capacity Upgrade Project were guests at this years Ground Engineering Awards in Central London on 6th June. As well as being shortlisted as finalists in the Health and Safety Category, our submission was given the accolade of 'Highly Commended' having submitted a paper and presentation to the judging panel titled the 'Option A Joint'.
The 'Option A Joint' is a development of a radial joint in sprayed concrete lining tunnelling and has resulted in the removal of the need for personnel to enter the sealed tunnel face. At the Bank Station Capacity Upgrade project, the ground conditions in the London clay are fractured and blocky, and using the technique makes it possible to maintain clear exclusions zones through the construction cycle of an advance. This allows for a safer working environment despite ground fallouts during excavation.
The Ground Engineering judges described the development as a 'fundamental game-changer, which was driven by individuals working on the project'.
The implementation of this joint design has been seen as one of the most positive changes to the industry in many years and one which marks a major step forward in tunnel health and safety.
A huge congratulations to all team members involved in this joint collaborative working approach.
