Tunnel and underground works : Transition from a hazardous environment to risk cost reduction through risk engineering management Konstantis Thomas Risk Engineering Consultant, Marsh Specialty, London, UK Online published on 14 April, 2023. Abstract None of the civil engineering projects, most prominently the large underground schemes are risk-free, but always bear the element of exposure and are prone to unforeseen accidents and physical losses. In order to properly mitigate this situation and improve the overall ‘risk profile’ of a project, an in-depth and broad understanding of the various influential factors is necessary and critical, followed by the appropriate, targeted and proportional actions. The present contribution elaborates on the aforementioned topics, following a gradual and progressive route, designated for bringing the best-possible and readily applicable outcome. It starts with the brief description and presentation of the major and most impactful hazards of a subsurface infrastructure project, since these are capable enough of shaping and dictating the outcome in a stand-alone or combined manner. The deleterious nature of these hazards is further affirmed by the presentation and description of some prominent failures, as their repercussions have largely prompted changes and differentiations in their insurability status and gauged the specific terms and conditions of the corresponding insurance policies. Extensive references are made in the targeted mitigation measures, as these are reflected through the prism of the tangible benefits of a bespoke, project-specific, comprehensive, proactive and overarching risk engineering management. The critical and pivotal role of a skilled and highly qualified risk engineer is thoroughly examined and presented, with clear references to all emerging requirements as these unfold throughout the project’s entire lifecycle. Albeit the final result bears the element of subjectivity and the risk engineer’s experience and judgement, clear guidance is given on the powerful, useful, proven and world-wide recognized tools that can be used for its validation and attestation. This manuscript concludes with the absolute confidence of the achievable and tangible reduction of the total cost of risk, welcoming further ideas and broader discussions. Top |