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Remote and Challenging Terrain

The Expertise

Most of our works are carried out in Greenfields and in particular, locations for proposed dams and pumped hydros. Due to the remote nature of most dams/pumped hydro, e.g., largely inhabited, and the design requirements e.g., steep valleys, we have developed substantial expertise in remote and challenging terrains.

The Challenge

Adverse conditions such as rains, storms, extreme temperatures etc. that can be somewhat easily mitigated in urban areas, become a major issue in remote areas and in challenging terrains.

We cover all aspects inherent to remote area work, e.g.:

  • health and safety,
  • logistics,
  • equipment (both geophysical and not),
  • accommodation etc.,

the challenges inherent to difficult terrains, e.g.:

  • steep slopes,
  • thick vegetation,
  • absence of access roads,
  • areas inaccessible by vehicles,
  • presence of rivers/creeks etc.,

and the environment, e.g.:

  • wildlife and extreme climates.

Scurbat can also carry out light vegetation clearing to enable investigation. The advantage to have the geophysics crew carry out the clearing, is to minimise the environmental impact by knowing exactly what is needed. The clearing is carried out to the minimum amount necessary, which results in reducing project delays, adherence to environmental rules and regulations, efficiency in field operation and to minimise additional sub-contractor engagement and management.

The Specialised Personnel

Most of the personnel involved in remote areas are experienced and trained for conditions and eventualities that are outside the norm, e.g., no coms, remote medical assistance, driving long distances and in challenging terrains. Some of the basic mandatory training for Scurbat employees working remotely includes:

  • Remote Area First Aid
  • Defencing driving
  • 4WD and 8WD (if used) certificates

Also, the trained crew is complemented with all necessary equipment, e.g.:

  • Satellite phones and Satellite web
  • Handheld UHF
  • Comprehensive First Aid kit
  • 4WD (mine specs) and 8WD vehicles
  • Equipped vehicle for challenging terrains:
    • Full recovery gear
    • UHF radios
    • Tools for emergency repairs
  • Complete camping setup, including shower, toilet, and kitchen facilities.
  • Dinghy and inflatable zodiac

In addition to Scurbat requirements, all personnel undertake all required and necessary courses and inductions specific to the project and environment.

The Facts

Australia can be harsh and unforgiving, but with proper planning, training, and expertise, we can take geophysics anywhere.

During the undertaking of many remote projects, we have resolved issues from dealing, successfully, with a snake bite emergency to getting bogged 7 times within 70m, having to walk an entire day just to mobilise equipment from the camp to the site, dealing with 43°C, 90% humidity or quickly evacuating site due to flooding, and many others.

Reach Out and Let’s Discuss Your Project

No matter how simple or complex is your project, we can assist in many ways…a technical explanation? A practical field implementation? A budget discussion? Or a full project planning and execution? Just ask away.