It was all systems go constructing a temporary blast and paint facility for three new Air Warfare Destroyers
It was all hands on deck at the State Government’s defence facility at Osborne (SA), with McMahon Services appointed as Managing Contractor to deliver the multifaceted construction of a Temporary Blast and Paint Facility for three new Air Warfare Destroyers.
With an original time frame set at 24 weeks, the schedule was reviewed and reduced to 14 weeks, meaning thorough pre-planning was critical to ensure that works could be completed simultaneously.
The project called for the construction of two buildings measuring 29 x 28 metres that would be capable of housing ship blocks in a completely air tight environment and that adhered to hazard area certification due to the explosive dust and fumes generated from the blast and paint activities.
Project Manager Grahame Coppock and Site Manager Matthew Chancellor were in charge of the coordination of all subcontractors on site, with a total of eight companies, along with personnel from ASC and in-house labourers.
The first task was to establish the site; setting up offices, amenities, temporary fencing and connecting temporary services.
The site’s high security presented some unique challenges for the team, including limited access with restricted zones blocking major areas of land and access points. The central working area was also positioned between two restricted zones and ran alongside a rail line used to transfer ship blocks.
Also in the mix was the coordination ASC and CUF staff conducting weekly inspections of chemical and gas monitoring and accessing existing underground services, as well as an interface with the existing services.
Putting our team to the test, McMahon Services was primarily responsible for managing the Master Construction Schedule for the entire scope of works, day to day site management and coordination of construction activities, toolbox meetings and managing all design queries.
The temporary facility has a five year lease on site and will be deconstructed at the completion of the project.
