Tunnel safety

• What are the safety features in Sydney's major tunnels?
• How do I use a tunnel safely?
• What do I do if my vehicle breaks down or I crash in a tunnel?
• What if I am caught in traffic?
• What are the tunnel height limits for heavy vehicles?
• Can dangerous goods vehicles use tunnels?

What are the safety features in Sydney's major tunnels?

• Emergency broadcasts through your vehicle's radio and/or the tunnel's public address system.
• Electronic message boards to deliver important safety messages.
• Identified emergency exits.
• Flashing lights to guide you to emergency exits.
• Emergency phones to connect you with the tunnel control room.
• Fire extinguishers and emergency phones located at least every 60 metres.
• Deluge water sprays or sprinklers for use in a fire.
• Emergency barriers at tunnel entry points to stop vehicles driving into a hazardous situation.
• 24 hour monitoring via Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras and incident response teams on stand-by.

How do I use a tunnel safely?

• Always leave your radio turned on.
• Take your sunglasses off (unless optical prescription glasses).
• Always check electronic message boards where available.
• Avoid changing lanes.
• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
• Turn headlights on.

What do I do if my vehicle breaks down or I crash in a tunnel?

• If possible drive out of the tunnel. If not possible, pull over to a breakdown bay or the side of the lane.
• Stay in your vehicle unless otherwise advised.
• Switch on your hazard lights.
• Wait for help to arrive.
• You will be monitored by cameras and assistance will be sent to tow your vehicle.
• If you need to call for help, it is preferred that you use the emergency phones as they will automatically identify your precise location within the tunnel. The tunnel control room will contact emergency services if necessary.
• If you suspect your vehicle is malfunctioning do not enter the tunnel.

CAUTION - before you get out of your vehicle, check for approaching traffic.

What if I am caught in traffic?

• Turn on your radio - emergency broadcasts may be transmitted and will cut into your normal station.
• If instructed, turn off your engine. Idling for extended periods produces higher levels of pollutants.
• Vehicle emission levels are monitored continuously in Sydney's major tunnels and tunnel operators ventilate the tunnel to keep the air safe.

What are the tunnel height limits for heavy vehicles?

Sydney's major tunnels are 4.4 metres in height except the M5 East Main Tunnel which is 4.6 metres.

Can dangerous goods vehicles use tunnels?

Dangerous goods vehicles not permitted to travel in Sydney's tunnels.