ABSTRACT
Shafts play a critical role in the construction and operation of underground structures in civil and mining engineering projects. They provide access to subsurface areas, facilitate ventilation, and vary in size, shape, and depth based on the project’s specific needs and geological conditions. The construction method must be carefully selected to ensure safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, considering factors like project purpose, ground stability, water conditions, and available resources. The Working Group on Design and Construction of Shafts (WG23) of the International Tunnelling Association (ITA) has recently prepared a report, which reviews different items that need to be considered for the construction of shafts, describes various construction methods, and includes decision trees and charts that can enhance the decision-making process for selecting shaft construction methods. Examples of these charts and diagrams are presented in this paper and case studies reviewed, showing how these tools may help in selecting suitable construction methods for shafts.
