Engineers play a key role in supporting and maintaining the smooth operation of the Western Harbour Crossing.
The tunnel's engineering departments cover mechanical, electrical, computer and cleaning services.
'The power supply is the single most important element in running the tunnel operation,' said Jacob Lee, the company's engineering manager.
To ensure the tunnel will never experience a total power failure, electricity is supplied by two separate companies, China Light and Power and the Hong Kong Electric Company via substations located in the West Kowloon and Sai Ying Pun ventilation buildings.
Each system is connected to dual transformers in the substations so that each transformer supplies half the load under 'normal' conditions. In the event of a power failure, automatic change-over facilities are fitted to transfer the load between each transformer. This ensures the tunnel remains operative if there is a shut-down of either company's equipment.
Precautions have been taken to maintain power supply by installing emergency generators which could run essential equipment such as the fire service system, emergency lights and pumps. If a total power failure occurred, an alternative supply can be provided by batteries and generators which will maintain the operation of essential equipment during the period of mains failure.
The engineering department is also responsible for maintaining the ventilation system. A total of 36 fans linked to the central control and monitoring system have been fitted into the ventilation buildings at the end of each tunnel.