Information about Phase 1 of the Second Street Utility Tunnel Repair Project
Phase 1 of the Utility Tunnel Improvement Project involves removing asbestos containing materials from pipes located inside the utility tunnel and re-insulating existing utility piping with non-asbestos insulation materials. This is in preparation for structural repair work, which will be scheduled upon completion of Phase 1 work.
Asbestos Abatement: Removal of insulation from pipes inside the utility tunnel will not constitute a hazard to the health of individuals in or outside the work area as it is performed and monitored under Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), AOC, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Office of Compliance, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ requirements. The contractor performing asbestos removal will construct a sealed barrier around its work zone, establish negative air flow in the work area so all air is filtered by HEPA filters prior to leaving the work area, and bag and seal all waste that leaves the work area. All work is monitored by a third-party, certified industrial hygienist in addition to inspections by government inspectors.
All workers are trained in asbestos removal, wear appropriate personal protective equipment while removing asbestos, and are required to follow decontamination procedures including showering before leaving the work area.
Purpose of the Shed: To provide controlled access for workers entering and leaving the utility tunnel work area. The 16’ x 28’ shed will provide a shelter from the weather as well as from the high temperatures of the work area. Inside the shed will be a closed shower facility for workers’ use. Waste water will be contained and removed from the site. Some personal protective equipment and hand tools will be brought into the tunnels via the shed.
The shed will be located on Library of Congress grounds at the corner of Second Street, S.E., and Independence Avenue. It will be enclosed by temporary, painted, architectural fencing. Outside lighting, similar to motion-detection fixtures that are found on homes and garages, will provide security and illuminate the shed entrance.
Work Hours: Work will be conducted underground between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., and between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m., with careful observance of the District’s noise ordinances. Work will not be audible at or above street level.
Working two shifts will significantly cut the overall duration of the project. More importantly, it minimizes the time that steam pipes are bare, thereby reducing temperatures in the tunnels. This is important to reduce heat stress on workers. Pedestrians will observe little or no activity from the shed except when workers report for duty; take rest breaks, or when they leave.
