Synlait - Dangerous Goods Store Explanation

Grant Hood Contracting was appointed as the civil works contractor for the expansion of a dedicated Dangerous Goods (DG) Storage Area at the Synlait site. This multifaceted project involved civil infrastructure upgrades, environmental controls, and integration with existing services—delivered within a live operational site under strict safety and compliance protocols.

Scope of Civil Works

The civil scope, delivered entirely by Grant Hood Contracting, included but was not limited to:

1. Site Setup and Management

Full site establishment, including Preliminary & General (P&G) provisions.

Management of a secured work ringfence within the Synlait site, with control over subcontractors and site access until civil works were completed.

Installation of temporary fencing and signage.

• Coordination of relevant council inspections.

2. Concrete Works – DG Storage Pad

• Construction of a 17m x 32m reinforced concrete slab, engineered for forklift and pump truck loading (approx. 180mm thickness, subject to design confirmation).
• Chemical spill containment features, including:
• Minimum 1:60 fall directing liquid to an in-ground 1,000L blind sump (APD PE or similar).
• Installation of slotted rectangular drains and trafficable sump with grated lid.
• Concrete curbing to create internal containment and prevent chemical ingress around shed posts.
• Surface grading to ensure chemical runoff is diverted away from shed columns.
• Provision for painted chemical pallet lanes on the slab surface.
• Coordination with shed contractor for shed pole installation during slab pour.

3. Asphalt Truck Stop Construction

• Full construction of a heavy-duty asphalt truck stop, suitable for 40-tonne truck and trailer units.
• Surface graded to design slopes for efficient stormwater flow.
• Installation of trafficable stormwater sump with an emergency spill shut-off valve, allowing for containment of spills and easy pump-out access.

4. Stormwater Management System

• Civil installation of a new stormwater drainage system, servicing:
• DG storage slab runoff
• Truck stop runoff
• Shed roof drainage
• Integration with existing stormwater infrastructure (soak pit and storm main tie-in).
• Installation of:
• 150mm central slotted channel drain between sheds
• 225mm RCP connections from trafficable sumps
• Underground pipework to receive water from future plumbing tie-ins (e.g., showers, downpipes)
• Emergency containment features incorporated into main stormwater line via shut-off valve system.

5. Utility Service Trenching

• Water Supply Extension:
• Trenching for potable water lines to safety showers, wash-down hoses, and sinks.
• Coordination with plumbing contractor for pipe installation and final tie-in.
• Backfilling and surface reinstatement following pipework.
• Electrical and Network Cable Trenching:
• Trenching from existing service corridor to DG storage area.
• Coordination with electrical contractor for underground trunking and cabling works.
• Backfilling and compaction following completion by electrical contractor.

6. Safety Infrastructure Preparation

• Construction of elevated concrete plinths for two safety shower units.
• Coordination for 3-way valve discharge system connecting either to:
• Blind sump (for chemical discharge), or
• Stormwater system (for non-contaminated water)
• Coordination with plumbing contractor for final install and discharge connection.

Outcome

Grant Hood Contracting delivered all works on time, within scope, and to a high standard, ensuring compliance with Synlait’s safety and environmental policies. The project required detailed coordination with multiple trades, precision civil execution, and integration with existing services—successfully handled by our team through effective planning and strong communication.

This project further demonstrates Grant Hood Contracting’s capability in delivering complex industrial infrastructure within operational environments, with a focus on safety, environmental compliance, and technical excellence.