ABSTRACT
The use of blasting as a construction method for excavation in close proximity of existing underground structures is not an uncommon situation which can have an impact on the structure that needs to be analyzed. Although this type of configuration is relatively common, it is not so usual to find standards which include tunnels among the structures considered in their recommendations. In addition, these standards tend to be conservative which may result in restrictive blast design therefore, slow down in production and higher costs. This paper presents an extensive overview of standards and regulations as well as case stories, in order to stablish recommendations and to provide guidance about the methodology and damage criteria to be considered for these studies with attention to the structural integrity but also considering the operation and the impact on the tunnel systems.
