A tunnelling operative’s main job is to help dig, support, and build tunnels and shafts underground for construction projects. During their apprenticeship, they’ll learn different methods, like using machines or hand tools to dig tunnels and tasks like moving materials and operating machinery. They work as part of a team on tunnelling projects, handling various tasks to ensure everything runs smoothly.
What you’ll learn
Upon finishing this apprenticeship, Tunnel Operatives apprentices will grasp essential knowledge about:
- Safety principles for work, including health, environment, and personal well-being, and how to apply them to various tasks and interactions.
- Different tunneling methods like hand tunneling, machine tunneling, and others, along with their associated risks and modern technologies.
- Sustainable practices and environmental impacts related to tunneling operations.
- Legal responsibilities under current legislation and official guidance for safe work practices.
- Proper handling of products and chemicals used in tunneling, including safety information and disposal procedures.
- Effective communication and adherence to organizational procedures for efficient and sustainable work.
- Supportive roles in tunneling operations and teamwork responsibilities.
- Interpretation of various types of information necessary for assembling resources and following work schedules.
- The role of building information modeling in tunneling operations.
- Direction, control, and safe operation of tunneling machinery and vehicles.
- Safe handling and storage techniques for tunneling materials.
- Requirements and checks for lifting operations and associated equipment.
- Compliance with quality standards in tunneling operations.
- Installation, operation, maintenance, and removal of tunneling equipment.
- Identification of soil types and changes in geology during tunneling.
- Working at height practices and the use of access equipment.
- Response to tunneling emergencies, including self-rescue and the use of breathing apparatus.
- Understanding occupational health risks in tunneling environments
Entry requirements
You’ll usually need:
- Depend on employer, but likely GCSEs or equivalent qualifications or relevant experience
Assessment methods
The programme is assessed in various ways before completing the End Point Assessment, including knowledge test practical assessment and technical interview.
Duration, level, subjects and potential salary upon completion
- Duration: 12 months
-
Level: 2 – Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Relevant school subjects: DT and geography
- Potential salary upon completion: £40,000 per annum
Apprenticeship standard
More information about the Level 2 Tunnelling Operative standard can be found here.
Apprenticeship end point assessment
For more information about the End Point Assessment Process, please read the Institute of Apprenticeships’ information page.