Our Intermediate Level Waste – East Zone (ILW-EZ) project continues to make significant strides in safety, excavation, and surface preparation – with strong collaboration and innovative solutions leading the way.
A major milestone has been hit with the completion of bulk excavation work, with 130,000 cubic metres of material successfully removed, the equivalent to over 50 Olympic size swimming pools.
The D1 Phase 1 spoil repository has now been filled and is in the process of being closed down.
One of the biggest challenges during this phase was managing logistics, particularly the movement of materials. Coordination with local authorities and supply chain partners enabled the team to secure 169 truck movements per week, ensuring that the excavation work remained on schedule.
Safety Performance and System Enhancements
The project has recorded a 94 per cent safety energy score and achieved 200,000 hours without a Lost Time Accident.
A key contributor to this success is the introduction of the new Spillard People Plant Interface (PPI) system, designed to improve site safety by providing real time alerts to operators.
The system increases situational awareness and reduces the risk of vehicle and personnel interactions.
To support ongoing safety improvements, the project team has implemented structured training sessions, regular safety briefings and recognition initiatives that reinforce best practice across the site.
The Spillard People Plant Interface PPI system upgrade is scheduled to be rolled out across the site. This system standardisation aligns with broader PDD safety initiatives, providing a consistent and effective safety measure across multiple project sites.
The Management of Plant People Interface standard, developed by the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Hub, has pioneered the improvements which will move us towards a position of Knowingly Safe.
The Spillard PPI system will help reduce plant-related risks by alerting both vehicle operators and personnel when they are in proximity to moving equipment. This proactive approach improves hazard awareness and contributes to a safer working environment.
Challenges
Andrew Haile, Senior Project Manager for the ILW project, said: “This project has faced its fair share of challenges but the progress we have made is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.
“From improving site safety with the Spillard PPI system, to overcoming complex logistical hurdles, we are delivering results that will have a lasting impact.
“It is a real team effort and I am proud of what we have achieved so far.”