Statistical analysis of fire accidents in Chinese highway tunnels 2000–2016

Abstract Statistical analysis of tunnel fire accidents (TFAs) in China 2000–2016 as related to causes, characteristics, and consequences are discussed in this study with average frequency, time and locations, vehicle types, and regional distribution features revealed. Analysis results indicate that over half of TFAs in China result from vehicle technical problem. The average prevalence of TFAs has increased yearly since 2000 with the majority of incidences occurring in the summer and winter seasons and the autumn season experiencing the least. Fire accident prone locations tend to be at entrance and exit points of highway tunnels with heavy goods vehicles experiencing the largest proportion of TFAs at 58.2%. Countermeasures focusing on improving tunnel safety are recommended.