Description and value of services provided by the consultant.

Nova Group Pacific was contracted by NSW Public Works to assist in the cleanup and recovery efforts following the devastating 2022 floods across New South Wales. The project focused on aiding private property owners in restoring their land, with a particular emphasis on properties severely affected by the natural disaster.

The scope of work included:

• Hazardous Material Surveys (HAZMAT): Conducting preliminary hazard assessments, including asbestos air monitoring and mould assessments.

• Project Management & Supervision: On-site supervision of properties slated for demolition due to irreparable damage.

• Contaminated Land Investigations, Remediation and Validation: Investigating and remediating flood-impacted properties with fuel, chemical spills, and both bonded and friable asbestos contamination.

• Waste Classification: Classifying and managing waste from affected sites.

• Quality Control: Oversight of contractors to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Nova Group Pacific approached this large-scale project in two stages:

Stage 1 – Preliminary Site Assessments:

• Conducted site inspections to identify hazards such as fuel and chemical spills, asbestos, contaminated soils, and mould.

• Performed sampling and analysis as necessary.

• Generated comprehensive building reports for structures damaged by the floods.

• Produced Preliminary Hazard Assessment Reports detailing findings and recommended actions.

Stage 2 – Demolition, Remediation, Validation:

• Developed and implemented Remediation Action Plans (RAPs) for sites requiring demolition and remediation.

• Nova Group Pacific's team of SafeWork NSW Licensed Asbestos Assessors and OH&S Supervisors closely supervised demolition activities, with a focus on safety and compliance, especially in dealing with asbestos-containing materials (ACM).

• Conducted air fibre monitoring during the demolition of sites with friable and non-friable ACM, ensuring thorough validation and clearance certification upon completion.

Challenges & Solutions

Given the scale and sensitivity of the project, particularly in residential areas, Nova Group Pacific prioritised empathetic communication and professionalism. The team’s approach fostered trust and collaboration within the affected communities, helping to ease the difficult circumstances for residents. Their diligent management and technical expertise ensured the successful restoration of multiple properties across the region.

Services Rendered

• Mould Assessment

• Hazardous Material Surveys (HAZMAT)

• Contaminated Land Investigations

• Site Remediation & Validation

• Waste Classification

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