Results
Statutory inspections and repairs delivered safely and to compliance standards.
Fit-for-service sign-off achieved on all vessels post-shutdown.
Increased efficiency and reduced costs compared with scaffold-based access.
Ongoing client confidence through reliable delivery and regional management oversight.
Project
Solution
Deployment of 10 rope access NDT technicians (ISO 9712 qualified in MT, UT, and PT methods) per shutdown, working day and night shifts.
Two AICIP-qualified plant inspectors overseeing inspection and repair activities.
Local boilermakers and fitters completing repair works directly.
Full project management including planning, recruitment, travel, and accommodation.
Rope access methodology delivering 25% more tool time compared to scaffold.
Project
Challenges
Requirement for statutory inspections and fit-for-service sign-off on critical pressure vessels.
Large flash tanks requiring internal and external access for inspection and repair.
Coordination of FIFO NDT teams alongside local trade-qualified workforce.
Need to maximise tool time and minimise downtime during shutdowns.
Project
Overview
At the Rio Tinto Alcan Yarwun alumina refinery in Central Queensland, statutory inspections and repair works are carried out on evaporation flash tanks.
Rope access NDT teams conduct detailed internal and external inspections, with repair works undertaken by multi-skilled local boilermakers and fitters. The approach eliminates the need for scaffolding, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring compliance for one of Australia’s largest alumina producers.