Project Overview
The requirement from the client, Department of Education, was to upgrade the existing ablution block A facilities in line with current standards. The existing block was deemed unsuitable to upgrade and a decision to demolish the existing block as well as construct a new ablution block which also hosted a new unisex accessible toilet. A request for public quotations was sought from the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics and the successful tenderer was McMahon Services.
Scope of Work
The scope of works required removal of approximately 80m² of asbestos sheeting to make the building safe for demolition, all sheeting was removed in accordance with Work Safe code of practice, to ensure the safety of the school community. All asbestos containing materials were disposed of in accordance with Northern Territory EPA requirements and transported to Shoal Bay Receiving Centre.
Once the building was certified as asbestos free, demolition works commenced with all materials sorted and removed off site for further recycling. The building construction consisted of the installation of new plumbing, new engineered floor slab, new wall framing and cladding, new roof construction, installation of wall and roof cladding, new tiling, new toilet partitions, fixtures and fittings. The scope also included the reinstatement of the external pavers which had been removed to raise the ground levels to allow for correct stormwater disbursement. Finishing works also included painting and final fit out.
During the construction works, McMahon Services identified an area where there was potential for children to enter a gap space and hide or get trapped, this space was between the new ablution block and garden bed. The McMahon Services team collaboratively worked with Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics to provide a compliant solution to block these gaps, in a timely manner.
Inclement weather was a significant challenge on the project as it was awarded in the wet season. It’s potential to impact the project was minimised through establishing a watertight building as soon as possible within the construction program allowing fit out works to be undertaken during inclement weather events.
In addition, the project spanned over the Christmas break period which had the potential to impact upon the procurement of essential materials. To ensure availability, materials were purchased ahead of time and stored in a secure area to ensure availability.
All materials and labour were sourced within the local community in line with McMahon Services’ commitment to ‘buy local’ and strengthen the Northern Territory economy.
The project achieved 15% Indigenous participation through the utilisation of an apprentice Boilermaker, providing valuable on the job construction experience.
