Jongno-gu to Use Eco-Friendly Excavation Protection Panels for 1,000 Underground Installation Projects Annually

Using Nonwoven Fabric So Far
Awarded the Minister of the Interior and Safety Prize for Employee Idea

Jongno-gu, Seoul (Mayor Jeong Munheon) is expanding the introduction of 'excavation protection panels' at water, electricity, and gas construction sites to ensure pedestrian safety. On average, about 1,000 underground utility construction projects take place annually in Jongno, with restoration after completion typically taking 7 days.

Until last year, nonwoven fabric temporary covers were used to suppress dust and provide convenience for pedestrians during this period, but they caused inconvenience to residents due to poor flatness and slippage. Additionally, the frequent disposal of waste incurred considerable costs.

An image showing the use of excavation protection panels in the restoration work of subsidence. Provided by Jongno-gu.

Accordingly, Jongno-gu started a pilot installation in January this year and has introduced recyclable excavation protection panels at more than 60 construction sites to date, replacing the nonwoven fabric.

The excavation protection panels, made of high-density plastic material, prevent slippage and sliding, thereby preventing safety accidents for passing citizens. They can be used permanently, which helps save costs related to waste disposal.

Considering that private contractors may prefer the relatively cheaper nonwoven fabric covers during road excavation and restoration works, the district has been lending excavation protection panels free of charge to residents since June. Related organizations have been encouraged to purchase the excavation protection panels directly.

Meanwhile, Han Gilsu, a road official from Jongno-gu who first proposed the use of excavation protection panels, achieved the great honor of receiving the Minister’s Award at the ‘2024 Central Excellent Proposal Contest’ hosted by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety last October.

Mayor Jeong Munheon stated, “Receiving the Minister’s Award was possible thanks to the ideas and efforts of our staff to make Jongno a better place to live and to protect residents’ safety,” and added, “We will continue to strive to add convenience to residents’ lives and create a safe and secure city.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.