https://peertube.dngr.us/videos/watch/2abc131c-b37b-499a-a2cb-447a6c6222c5 Made in 1943 by the Ministry of Information to train rescue squads during the Blitz, "Debris Tunnelling" is introduced and commentated by a rescue party instructor. When a bomb demolishes a building the urgent need is to rescue any casualties trapped under the debris. There are two methods of doing this by either clearing the debris or tunnelling through. This film deals with the process of tunnelling.The film shows how a tunnel is dug into the side of a large pile of debris using a carefully planned system of timber shoring. Potential problems such as large obstructions are dealt with. The film was shot at a special British Civil Defense reserve training ground, where teams train for this sort of work. The film explains the tunneling method used in rescue operations to reach trapped people under collapsed debris. It focuses on building headings—timber-framed tunnels driven carefully through rubble to avoid further collapse. The process involves clearing loose debris, constructing and supporting frames with timber sourced from the site, and systematically boarding the tunnel with headboards and sideboards. The work requires precise measurements, teamwork, and skill to maintain tunnel stability and progress quickly. Obstacles like furniture or brick walls may be incorporated or bypassed depending on their nature. Success depends heavily on the rescue leader’s judgment, team coordination, and practical training, as each situation is unique and demands careful planning and execution to ensure safety and efficiency. Produced by Wolfgang Suschitzky, Edgar Anstey, Leo Wilkins, Kay Maner and Eileen Royde. 0:00– Main titles. Introduction to tunneling as a rescue method for accessing collapsed debris and trapped persons. 1:08 – Explanation of tunnels classified as shafts sunk through debris or subsoil, and headings driven similarly. 1:32 – Focus on building a heading demonstrated at a civil defense training ground simulating bomb collapse rubble. 2:03 – Rescue leader plans action; team prepares timber frames and equipment. 2:28 – Clearing loose rubble carefully to avoid further collapse and dumping debris away from the site. 3:06 – First timber frame assembled and positioned clear of debris; frame dimensions specified. 4:05 – Frame supported by struts called rakers, pegged if ground is soft. 5:27 – Second frame, called the temporary frame, positioned near the base of debris to support headboards. 6:01 – Headboards and sideboards cut and installed alternately; bricks and rubble packed for firm support. 7:41 – Tunnel fully boarded; sideboards driven in as debris is cleared. 8:20 – Description of first and second frames with temporary frame in between; tunnel size may vary and measurements are taken for each frame. 10:00 – Use of packing pieces behind side trees to create gaps for rescue boards. 11:08 – Completion of first stage of heading with frames and double head tree; headboards slope between frames. 11:43 – Team rotation to prevent fatigue; temporary frame removed as it becomes unnecessary. 12:06 – Headboards and sideboards installed and driven alternately; packing piece facilitates board insertion. 13:11 – Heading construction repeats; maintaining uniform tunnel size emphasized. 13:40 – Tunneling is skilled, slow work; rescue speed depends on known casualty locations and careful progress to avoid collapse. 14:27 – Various debris obstacles encountered; assessment of obstacle size and nature is essential before proceeding. 15:17 – Options include cutting through obstacles (slow) or tunneling around them; keeping tunnel corners flat aids casualty withdrawal. 15:43 – Some obstacles, like intact furniture, can be incorporated to save work. 16:29 – Using cupboards and similar features in tunnel reduces timber needs. 16:42 – Brick walls are common obstructions; breach size depends on debris beyond the wall. 17:18 – Many unpredictable problems arise; no fixed rules apply; success relies on leader’s judgment and team skill. 17:45 – Emphasis on tool handling, following instructions, and teamwork for efficient rescue. 18:02 – Film provides an overview but practical training is essential for effective tunneling rescue operations. 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