Safety
The Dublin Port Tunnel has been fitted with comprehensive mechanical and electrical systems, optical and gas monitoring equipment in order to ensure a safe environment for all users.
Remove sunglasses and turn on headlights (dipped) before entering the Tunnel. Also check that you have sufficient fuel for the 5.6 km journey and tune into FM radio to hear any instructions the Operator may issue while you are within the Tunnel.
Read more about Dublin Port Tunnel's Safety Features (64k PDF)
Download The Dublin Port Tunnel Safety Leaflet (1,104k PDF)
Fire Points, Exits & Safety Equipment
Tunnel Operator
The Operator has full jurisdiction in the Tunnel. Drivers must obey instructions.
FM Radio Break-in Facility
Tune into FM radio stations to hear safety instructions, in case of incident.
CCTV
CCTV is in operation throughout the tunnel.
Loudspeakers
Loudspeakers and Electronic Variable Message Signs will be used to give instructions.
Emergency Stations
Emergency Stations on the left have direct telephones to Operator and fire extinguishers.
Pedestrian Exit
Exit by Pedestrian cross passages when instructed to do so.
Emergency Lay-bys
There are four emergency lay-bys on the left, every 1km.
Fire Fighting
There are fire fighting niches with hydrants every 125m and hose reels every 60m.
- 1. Emergency Station
- 2. Speed Sign
- 3. Lane Control Signals
- 4. Electronic Variable Message Sign
- 5. Fire Fighting
- 6. Pedestrian Exit
Heavy Goods Vehicles
- Maximum permissible height is 4.65m.
- Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Specific rules apply for hazardous loads (Lo-Call 1890 25 24 35 for more information).
- No overtaking for Vehicles with 3 axles or more.
- Drivers of vehicles over 2.9m wide must contact the Tunnel Operator in advance of entering the Tunnel.
Using the Tunnel
- Check fuel before entering the Tunnel.
- Remove sunglasses.
- Switch on dipped headlights.
- Tune in to FM radio to hear safety instructions, in case of incident.
- Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front: Cars - 50 metres. HGVs - 100 metres.
- Overtake only if it is safe. Obey Lane Control Signals.
- Do not turn or reverse.
- Do not stop except in an emergency.
- Obey speed limits.
If you break down or are in an accident
- Switch on warning lights.
- Try to exit Tunnel or drive to nearest lay-by.
- Switch off engine.
- Go to emergency station. Use emergency station phone to contact Operator. Fire extinguishers available.
- Obey Operator instructions on loudspeaker systems, FM radio and electronic signs.
- If your vehicle is on fire, switch off engine and leave vehicle immediately.
If you are instructed to stop in the Tunnel
- Switch on warning lights.
- Maintain safe distance between vehicles; Edge line + gap = 50m (see tunnel illustration, above).
- Switch off engine.
- Obey Operator instructions on loudpseaker systems, FM radio and electronic signs.
- If instructed to exit the tunnel, nearest exit is indicated by distance on wall.
If there is a fire in the Tunnel
- If there is smoke or fire behind you, drive out of the tunnel.
- If there is smoke or fire ahead, stop vehicle, turn off engine, leave vehicle immediately and exit the tunnel via nearest pedestrian exit.
- Nearest Pedestrian exit is indicated by distance on the wall. Obey Operator's instructions.
