Ferrovial Construction Laing O'Rourke JV (FLO)

Extended development of remote monitoring warning system for inaccessible areas.

After researching solutions on the market, a remote-managed tilt sensor with an added feature - a laser distance meter - was found. The primary function of this instrument is based on its tilt-sensor capabilities, however, FLO has developed new software/hardware to augment the current system. We have applied it as a warning system in shafts and tunnels. Compared with traditional manual monitoring the benefits are clear: In terms of health & safety, manual monitoring requires deploying 5 personnel to site (including a crane for access). With the new system, which gives readings remotely, no staff need to access the site. It removes around 40,000 hours of risk from the programme. In terms of accuracy and precision, manual readings can deviate between 1mm and 3mm. The new system works to tolerances of 0.1mm to 0.5mm. It isn't feasible to take manual readings regularly. A gang would take one per day, whereas the remote system provides data from once a minute to once an hour. This allows closer monitoring - data visible in real time as opposed to a single daily report - it allows us to report more frequently and comprehensively to our client, resulting in greater satisfaction. The innovation comes with budgetary advantages also - the small initial outlay for the system is quickly recouped in not having to send dedicated gangs down shafts or tunnels. This system even allows us to monitor in 'signal deadspots' - 60 metres beneath the bed of the River Thames for example, where internet is difficult to deploy. Our software means we can combine the frequency and accuracy of the system with operatives taking readings from it underground. The interconnected sensors mean they can survey a 1.5km long winding tunnel without internet. In conclusion, we have not only succeeded at reducing the risk for surveyors and workers involved in monitoring, customising this remote monitoring system to our needs, but we have increased the quality of monitoring and the confidence of Tideway on delivering this important super sewer to the highest standards.

This category recognises innovation and excellence in site surveying and monitoring on tunnelling projects. Entrants to this category must demonstrate and provide evidence to show how, on a specific tunnelling and/or underground project, innovative use of existing instrumentation and monitoring techniques or pioneering new technology is contributing to an improved outcome for the project team and/or client.