2 March 2009
PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION STATUS - BUSHFIRE
From the Sugarloaf Pipeline Alliance
The Sugarloaf Pipeline Alliance confirms that some construction works have been scaled back in recent days as a precaution against extremely high bushfire risk.
Welding in the open and slashing on the project was suspended on Friday, 27 February and has been suspended again today. Welding within trenches and inside pipes has continued, following consultation with the CFA and in strict accordance with permit conditions.
After liaison with the bushfire Incident Control Centre at Alexandra, which represents relevant fire and emergency service authorities, the Alliance has agreed to suspend all work in bushfire damaged areas on 3 March, due to the added risk posed by forecast winds.
Slashing and welding in the open will again be suspended at all other work sites on 3 March as a continued precaution against elevated bushfire risk.
Project Director for Melbourne Water, Rod Clifford, said:
“Safety remains our number one priority on this project.
“We take bushfire risk extremely seriously and we’ve had very stringent work practices in place from the start.
“This includes permits from the CFA to do the work we need to do on days of total fire ban, which come with strict conditions.
“Given the unique weather conditions facing Victoria at the moment, we are in regular contact with the CFA and the bushfire Incident Control Centres for their input to our proposed work plans. When we need to alter them over and above our permit conditions, we do.
“We remain on standby to help the CFA or DSE with people or equipment if needed, as we have since 7 February,” said Mr Clifford.
The Pipeline Alliance has supplied equipment including water carts, loaders, graders, dozers, trucks and generators to assist with fire fighting efforts. Up to 120 Alliance staff have worked under the direction from DSE and CFA staff since 7 February.
Construction Status Update - 11.00am, 3 March 2009
After discussions with the Bushfire Incident Control Centre at Alexandra around this morning's milder weather conditions, the Sugarloaf Pipeline Alliance expects to carry out limited work in the Toolangi State Forest. This will include earthworks, minor pipe laying and preparatory works at the southern entrance to the tunnel portal. The ban on welding in the open and slashing remains. As agreed with the Bushfire Incident Control Centre, the Alliance will monitor any changes in the weather conditions throughout the day and adjust the work program accordingly.
Media Contact: Denise Hurley +61 3 9727 8405 +61 (0)437 359 400