Adelaide Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Station (ARFFS)
Project Overview
MSS Hard Services was appointed to deliver essential rectification, and upgrade works at the Adelaide Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Station (ARFFS). This project focused on improving critical operational spaces and staff facilities while ensuring compliance with national standards and maintaining uninterrupted emergency response capabilities.
Scope of Works
Demolition & Site Preparation:
– Comprehensive photographic and written dilapidation report.
– Safe removal of existing flooring, partitions, and ceilings.
– Hazardous materials management including asbestos handling.
– Installation of dust-proof barriers to protect the work environment.
Construction & Fit-Outs:
PPE Room:
– New vinyl flooring, PPE-specific fittings, and Pacfire Red Rack installations.
– Slip-resistant surfaces, negative ventilation, and drainage systems.
BA Room:
– Relocation of BA filling station.
– Installation of BA-specific fittings.
Dorm Rooms:
– Acoustic upgrades, new ceilings, LED lighting, HVAC with individual controls.
– King single beds, bedside tables, dimmable lighting, and alarms.
Mechanical, Electrical & Data Services:
– Adjustments and upgrades to all affected systems in compliance with Australian Standards.
– Full LED lighting installation across all new and refurbished areas.
– Data and power services tailored to operational needs.
Scope Changes
Originally designed as a two-stage project, the works were strategically re-sequenced and delivered in one consolidated stage. This approach minimised disruption to the station’s daily operations, improved overall efficiency, and allowed for a quicker project turnaround. By completing all works simultaneously, MSS Hard Services streamlined resources and enhanced trade collaboration.
Timeframe for Completion
Start Date: 29 October
Completion & Handover: 13 December
Total Duration: 7 Weeks
Key Milestones
Week 1 (29 Oct – 3 Nov):
– Site establishment, dilapidation reporting, hazardous material assessment.
– Initial demolition works commenced.
Week 2-3 (4 Nov – 17 Nov):
– Completion of demolition and removal of affected infrastructure.
– Commencement of structural adjustments and rough-in of mechanical and electrical services.
– Installation of new flooring systems.
Week 4-5 (18 Nov – 1 Dec):
– Installation of fixtures and fittings in PPE and BA areas.
– Dorm room acoustic and HVAC upgrades in progress.
Week 6 (2 Dec – 8 Dec):
– Final fit-out of PPE, BA, and Dormitories.
– Completion of electrical, data, and lighting installations.
Week 7 (9 Dec – 13 Dec):
– Final inspections, testing, and compliance certification.
– Commissioning of all systems.
– Project handover to Airservices Australia.
Challenges & Complications
Airside Access & Security Delays:
– The project location was situated airside, subject to strict aviation security protocols.
– All personnel were required to hold valid ASIC (Aviation Security Identification Cards), significantly limiting available resources and requiring advance coordination for access.
– Site entry delays of up to an hour were possible due to scheduling with airport security and operational clearance, impacting daily productivity and logistics.
– Delivery of materials and equipment also had to comply with airside handling regulations, requiring meticulous planning and approval to avoid project disruptions
