Overview
In February 2023, Tronox engaged SMS Group Services to provide rope access support for internal works on two “B” waste gas columns (V223 and V224) at their Kwinana pigment plant. The objective was to remove wear plates and doughnut rings to allow Redmondis to conduct ultra-high-pressure (UHP) blasting inside the vessels. Initially contracted for rope access only, SMS was asked to take over the scaffolding scope after identifying critical compliance gaps in the client’s scaffold design.
Scope of Work
- Review of the client’s proposed lifting frame and identification of non-compliance with AUS/NZ Standards
- Design and provision of a compliant scaffold structure, including anchor points rated to 15kN
- Deployment of three rope access technicians, two advanced scaffolders, and one authorised gas testing sentry
- Confined space entry, disc and doughnut removal, and preparation for UHP blasting
- Full compliance with site-based safety protocols, including pre-task reviews, Take 2s, and on-site procedural checks
Outcome
The works were completed safely and fully complied with Tronox’s procedural and operational requirements. SMS successfully removed and reinstated eight internal vessel discs, four doughnut rings, and eight internal trays over 420 labour hours, including 120 critical confined space work hours. Twenty-two Take 2s were completed and handed to the client as part of daily reporting. The success of this engagement demonstrated SMS’s ability to identify risks, adapt quickly, and deliver integrated rope access and scaffold solutions in complex industrial environments.