Lorry drivers face safety risks in tunnels. The government is therefore taking measures to enhance safety in these places.
Road sign indicating a category 3 secure rest area.
Safety in tunnels
An accident in a tunnel can have more serious consequences than an accident on the open road. It is more difficult for the emergency services to do their job when there is an incident in a tunnel. The government is therefore focusing on tunnel safety. It has for example introduced special legislation which sets clear safety requirements for tunnels.
Tunnels and dangerous goods
Lorry drivers may not simply drive through any tunnel carrying dangerous goods. Since 1 January 2010 they have had to comply with European rules. The safety category applying to the tunnel determines which dangerous goods may be transported through it.