Rabs Plumbing was subcontracted by Lendlease to undertake civil works as part of the $389 million redevelopment of HMAS Watson.

The overall project included the refurbishment of fire and potable water networks, communications infrastructure, new base security systems, accommodation, and car parking. 

Due to the historical use of the site, including filling activities, many of the soil-penetrating works required by Rabs involved the disturbance of Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM).

As the asbestos remediation Subject Matter Expert (SME), RARE Environmental was engaged to oversee and manage all asbestos-related activities on-site throughout the project’s civil works. 

• Provided full-time site supervision during all civil works in known asbestos-contaminated areas under RARE’s NSW Class A asbestos removal license. 

• Developed and implemented asbestos-specific documentation for Rabs Plumbing’s civil activities. 

• Established, controlled, and managed all asbestos-disturbing activities on-site. 

• Monitored and managed asbestos waste disposal operations to ensure compliance. 

• Provided rapid response for unexpected asbestos finds, ensuring minimal disruption to the project schedule. 

• Liaised and coordinated with the Licensed Asbestos Assessor (LAA) to maintain safety and regulatory compliance.