Paramedics have ventured under Melbourne's CBD to ensure they are ready to respond to any emergency when the Metro Tunnel opens later this year.
Responding to an incapacitated train driver was just one part of a deployment training exercise completed by Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics and Metro Tunnel station staff last month.
The exercise was a collaborative effort with Metro Trains at the new Parkville Station. It involved AV's manual handling coordinators, health and safety representatives, and metropolitan paramedics.
Paramedics preparing to enter the new Parkville Station.
AV Emergency Management Unit Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator Olivia Howarth said the training was a great way for staff to familiarise themselves with the new station.
"We were able to use the exercise to determine the most appropriate extraction method, while ensuring we maintained our safety from a manual handling perspective," she said.
"As the exercise involved a new train and station, it was valuable for us to go through the motions alongside Metro Trains staff to understand the layout and features we need to be aware of.
"We were also able to refine how we would extricate an unresponsive driver by practicing in the confined area of the driver's compartment."
The exercise allowed paramedics to practice responding to an incapacitated train driver and ill passenger.
Ms Howarth said the group exercise was eye-opening for all involved.
"We were able to educate Metro Trains staff about our manual handling skills and equipment so they know what potential emergency responses would look like in the future," she said.
"It was a great opportunity to talk through these potential cases to ensure we're all on the same page before the tunnel opens to the public."
AV have been working closing with the Metro Tunnel Project Office and Metro Trains to prepare for the opening of new stations.
These hands-on training scenarios further enhance AV's ability to provide Best Care to all Victorians.
