High-altitude tunnel construction presents unique physiological and operational challenges due to reduced oxygen availability, extreme environmental conditions, and increased physical strain on workers. These factors significantly elevate construction risks and can negatively impact productivity. This study investigates ergonomics-based construction management strategies aimed at improving worker safety and efficiency by analyzing respiratory metabolism and energy consumption under high-altitude conditions.
Impact of High Altitude on Worker Physiology
Field testing and controlled bicycle power simulation experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of altitude on respiratory metabolic parameters and energy metabolism rate (EMR). Results indicate that as altitude increases, oxygen intake efficiency decreases, leading to higher physiological stress and energy expenditure. Workers operating in high-altitude environments must therefore exert greater effort to perform the same tasks compared to those at lower elevations.
Energy Metabolism Rate Variation with Altitude
The study reveals a significant increase in EMR with rising altitude. Specifically, EMR values increased from 8–11 kJ/(min·m²) at 2500 m to 10–14 kJ/(min·m²) at 4700 m, indicating a substantial rise in energy demand. The altitude range of 3400–3800 m was identified as a critical physiological adaptation zone, where workers begin to experience noticeable metabolic strain. At elevations above 4000 m, task-specific metabolic rates (MET) vary significantly, highlighting the growing influence of individual physiological differences.
Development of Work Duration Control Standards
Based on observed metabolic changes, the study establishes scientifically grounded work duration control standards for high-altitude tunnel construction. These standards are designed to prevent excessive fatigue, reduce health risks, and maintain consistent productivity. By aligning work-rest cycles with physiological limits, construction managers can better protect workers from altitude-related stress and performance decline.
Targeted Oxygen Supply Strategy
A novel “3 regions + 5 oxygen supply measures” strategy was proposed to optimize oxygen delivery in high-altitude tunnel environments. This approach categorizes work zones based on oxygen demand and implements targeted oxygen supply interventions tailored to each region. The strategy ensures efficient oxygen utilization, reduces unnecessary resource consumption, and enhances worker adaptability to altitude conditions.
Performance Improvements and Practical Implications
Implementation of the proposed ergonomics-based management strategies resulted in significant improvements. During a six-week monitoring period, worker efficiency increased by 13.6% to 28.6%, while cases requiring medical treatment due to oxygen deficiency dropped from 10–15 cases per week to zero. These outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating physiological insights into construction management practices. The findings provide a strong theoretical and practical foundation for improving safety and efficiency in high-altitude tunnel projects and can be extended to other high-altitude engineering applications.
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