On-line 2 days training session
On the 21st and 22nd October 2026, over two days, an online training session on ‘Tunnelling supervision fundamentals: Conventional tunnelling, NATM & Mining methods’ is co-organised with Mexican Association of tunnels and underground space engineers.
This two-day online course provides a technical and practical introduction to the supervision of underground construction works, covering conventional tunnelling, NATM and mining-based excavation methods.
The course addresses the principal aspects of tunnelling supervision, including excavation methods, support systems, geotechnical control, monitoring, quality control, safety, risk management and environmental considerations. Practical site management and field decision-making are also addressed through case studies.
Course Programme
Day 1 – Tunnelling Methods, Excavation & Field Decisions
Module 1 – Overview of Underground Tunnelling Methods
Explore the main tunnelling methods and the criteria for selecting appropriate approaches in rock and soil, together with the principles and practical requirements of conventional tunnelling.
Module 2 – Conventional Excavation Methods
Examine conventional tunnelling, NATM and mining methods, including classical excavation principles and auxiliary methods for challenging ground conditions such as freezing, umbrella bolts and divided excavation.
Module 3 – Support Systems & Quality Control
Understand key design considerations for support systems in hard rock, soft ground and squeezing conditions, together with practical approaches to quality control.
Module 4 – Field Decision-Making & Case Studies
Focus on construction site management and the decisions that need to be made during underground construction, illustrated through practical case studies.
Day 2 – Geotechnical Control, Supervision, Safety & Environment
Module 5 – Geotechnical Control & Monitoring
Learn about geotechnical surveys and on-site monitoring as essential tools for understanding ground behaviour and supporting construction decisions.
Module 6 – The Role of the Tunnel Supervisor
Explore the tunnel supervisor’s role from both engineering-company and client perspectives, including requirements and practices in Europe and South America.
Module 7 – Safety & Risk Management
Identify the principal risks associated with conventional tunnelling and examine site organisation, responsibilities and effective risk management.
Module 8 – Environmental Management
Consider the main environmental impacts of conventional tunnelling and the role of mining control in underground construction.