The Heysen Tunnels Refit and Safety Upgrade has been put through its paces, with the newly installed fire suppression system passing a simulated incident in the tunnel with flying colours.
As part of the simulated incident, volunteer participants acted as bus passengers and drivers of cars behind the bus, while a harmless, non-toxic vapour gave the illusion of smoke.
Traffic restrictions were in place during the exercise, with vehicles prevented from entering the tunnels in both directions. Light vehicles were diverted, while heavy vehicles that were Crafers bound were alerted prior to the exercise and briefly held while it was carried out.
The Heysen Tunnels are crucial segment of the road that connected Adelaide to the south-east of South Australia and the country’s eastern states.
Senior Project Manager for the Department of Infrastructure and Transport Simon Brederick says although fires in the Heysen Tunnels are an infrequent occurrence, it is important to keep emergency response skills sharp in the event of a worst-case scenario.
“Thankfully, there have only been a couple of fires reported in the tunnels’ 25-year history,” Brederick says.
“While we hope we won’t need to use the tunnels’ emergency management systems, in the event of an incident we are confident we have the best available equipment in place and ready.
“As we approach the tunnels’ quarter century of service, we know they are now well equipped to serve the community for generations to come.”
Major works of the $150 million upgrade was completed in 2024, with new systems and equipment installed as part of the extensive refit.
The fire suppression system is also the first of its kind in Australia. The remotely operated system quicky releases a heavy mist of water in the tunnels to suppress a fire.
Misting systems have been found to be more effective than traditional deluge systems while also using less water to cover a larger area.
Read more ATN:
ACFS feeling the love with efficiency boom
Financial relief needed for stretched Queensland trucking industry
Brisbane to gain new mega freight hub