Fire Protection in Concrete Tunnels

This paper describes how fire protection is a necessity in almost all tunnels. It has a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity of the tunnel in the event of an accident and reducing repair time and costs. Fire protection in tunnels also has an influence on life safety. However, thus far fire protection systems have not been considered as life safety devices. The potential for life safety needs to be considered further; for example, fast-response sprinklers may have a valid role. When selecting a fire protection product for use in a tunnel, care must be taken in order to ensure that the proposed system does not make any concessions to life safety in order to increase the protection of the concrete lining.