Fremantle Port

Overview

SMS Group Services has delivered scaffolding and specialist access solutions to Fremantle Port Authority since 2018. This contract spans the Inner Harbour and Outer Harbour, including critical infrastructure at the Kwinana Bulk Terminal (KBT) and Kwinana Bulk Jetty (KBJ). These sites are vital to Western Australia’s bulk trade, and all works have been completed in high-risk marine environments while live port operations continue.

Scope of Work

• Maintenance scaffolding, including rapid mobilisation for emergency and reactive work
• Deployment of modular HAKI scaffolding under jetties and splash zones to manage tidal impacts
• Rope access and confined space support for internal inspections, structural remediation, and NDT
• Coordinated delivery of blasting and painting scaffold access across elevated conveyor galleries
• Management of multiple concurrent workfronts across KBT and KBJ, including material laydown, barge logistics, and shift planning
• Twice-weekly coordination with FPA to ensure safe access around vessel movements and live loading zones
• Long-term team of 30-plus personnel, including scaffolders, supervisors, rope access techs, yard crew and HSE support

Outcome

SMS has delivered all scopes across KBT and KBJ without disrupting live port operations. Modular systems reduced scaffold installation times under jetty structures by over 40 per cent. Rope access teams enabled critical NDT and bin access works without requiring full scaffold builds or extended shutdowns. Our performance has led to contract extensions and the award of additional services, including blasting and painting scopes in 2024. SMS remains FPA’s trusted access provider, known for innovation, responsiveness, and a strong safety record.