Civiltest still delivering projects during Covid-19 Lockdown
COVID-19 continues to pose far-reaching implications for many industries, including geotechnical and construction projects. With Stage 4 Lockdown restrictions in place in Victoria and border closures active across the country, this has been a challenging time to get work done.
Despite the restrictions we have in place across the country, Civiltest has worked extremely hard to find solutions and work in partnership with clients and industries, remaining proactive, strategic and outcomes focussed.
“Civiltest is always committed to safe workplaces and practices, but right now this is of course at the top of our agenda. We have put new processes in place where needed to ensure our staff and clients stay safe and well,” said Mick Bates, National Projects Manager, Civiltest.
With current projects in South Australia and the Eliwana Railway in Western Australia, these are two projects with challenges that Civiltest has worked hard to overcome.
Civiltest is currently involved in geotechnical testing of materials in remote locations of Australia, with several staff required to work on site.
“Initially there were major delays getting on site as staff needed to stay in quarantine restrictions in South Australia for two weeks. However working in partnership with our client, a new COVID-19 testing regime was instigated that enabled us to isolate for only three days after a negative test,” said Civiltest’s State Manager, Scott Flood.
“To keep the project moving our staff team on the ground has committed to spending their ‘R&R’ in South Australia now, and do not fly in and out. This means we can stay the distance on this project with no delays and no-one putting themselves at risk.
“While this has been challenging, we are fortunate to have an excellent team who are committed to keep servicing the job.”
In Western Australia, Civiltest is working on Stage 3 of the Eliwana Railway, a new 300km stretch of rail line in the Pilbara region.
“We had to mobilise our staff team within three weeks to get on site and avoid holdups caused by Victoria’s Stage 4 Lockdown. Fast mobilisation is something for which Civiltest is well known in the mining industry but on this occasion, it was even more vital.
“Our client has praised our work ethic and the fact that we are still keeping to timelines. We’ve had nothing but positive feedback for the way we have handled all challenges thrown at the team. We always find work arounds where necessary and show commitment to projects such as this,” said Scott.
Image: Civiltest Team onsite at Eliwana Rail Project - Western Australia