The archaeology of mines, caves, crypts and bunkers

There is a well-established and active drive for the recording of a whole host of underground archaeological remains, whether mines, caves, crypts or bunkers.

Underground archaeology requires a number of specialised skills which are little practised by the majority of archaeological units. Similarly, excavation within confined spaces presents unique problems and challenges such as access, safety and lighting.

Current legislation requires that any workers undertaking a project underground or within a confined space must have the relevant confined space training as well as the relevant equipment, proper systems of risk management, method statements, ventilation and emergency procedures.

Long term expertise of mine workings recording

Wardell Armstrong Archaeology has developed techniques and maintained equipment for the recording of these spaces through its background of recording mine workings at Nenthead in Cumbria for the last twenty years and through work on other buried structures such as crypts.

Survey using photogrammetic recording is also a possibility and laser scanning on underground structures, mines and caves which can provide 3D models.

Specialist confined space archaeology keeps project on time and budget »