Abstract: Developing multiple working faces from one vertical shaft can rationalize the construction procedure, overcome the limit of ground surface space and investment and reduce the number of the vertical shafts. In normal cases, working faces are developed from vertical shafts toward one direction. In the case under study, however, multiple working faces are developed from one vertical shaft and rational excavation and force transition are achieved. In the end, the construction progress of the vertical shaft and the ventilation tunnel is ensured and the safety of the surrounding buildings and structures are guaranteed, under the prerequisite that the investment has not been increased.

Key words: Metro station, vertical shaft, multiple working faces, force transition