Ventilation Supplied During Deep Pipe Jacking Operations

Project Overview

A major underground pipe jacking project, crews were working deep below ground with limited natural airflow.

Challenge

Pipe jacking is a trenchless construction method used to install underground pipelines without digging up the surface, however crews working deep below ground could be at risk of breathing in contaminated air if there is not adequate fresh air ventilation.

The client needed:

• High pressure ventilation that would provide fresh air through several kilometres of ducting into confined spaces.
• Ventilation that would protect workers from the build-up of harmful fumes.
• A solution that would maintain compliance with WHS standards for underground ventilation.

In summary, the contractor required a powerful and reliable system that could deliver clean, breathable air consistently across long distances, whilst remaining compliant with WHS solutions.

Solution

RVT Group’s Technical Consultants designed a tailored ventilation system built around our high-performance, industry-leading centrifugal fans. These units were capable of:

• Generating the pressure required to push fresh air through extended ducting runs.
• Ensuring constant airflow even under demanding site conditions.
• Maintaining safe oxygen levels and diluting hazardous contaminants.

This engineered approach provided crews with a consistent supply of fresh air, creating a safer and more productive underground work environment.

The results

The outcome was a robust, compliant ventilation system that:

Demonstrated the reliability of RVT Group’s centrifugal fans — pumping air through kilometres of ducting without missing a beat.

Safeguarded workers’ health by maintaining clean, breathable air underground.

Ensured pipe jacking operations could proceed without delays caused by ventilation issues.