When a project is hundreds of kilometres from the nearest town, accommodation becomes part of the construction methodology. Dongas, offices, crib rooms, kitchens, ablutions and services all have to arrive in the right order. If they do not, your workforce may be ready before the camp is.
Common hire items
Site accommodation can include sleeper dongas, site offices, crib rooms, first aid rooms, kitchens, laundries, ablution blocks, storage containers, water tanks, wastewater tanks, generators, lighting and communications. Some jobs need a small temporary setup. Others need a full camp with services and management.
Start with the workforce plan
How many people, which rosters, what trades, and for how long? FIFO workforces need beds, meals, showers, laundry, recreation space and transport between camp and site. A small exploration programme has different needs from a 150-person shutdown or road construction package.
Transport and installation
Dongas are bulky. Transport permits, escorts, cranes, hardstand, tie-downs, stairs, ramps and service connections all need planning. In the Pilbara or Goldfields, mobilisation from Perth or a regional yard can be a major cost. In the Kimberley, wet season access can decide the whole programme.
Services make the camp work
Accommodation without power, water and wastewater is just a box in the dirt. Include generators, fuel supply, potable water, sewage systems, greywater, fire equipment, air conditioning, maintenance and cleaning. Air conditioning is not optional in Pilbara heat; it is a workforce welfare issue.
Compliance and comfort
Check building standards, fire separation, emergency exits, electrical testing, plumbing, hygiene and local approvals. Comfort matters too. Tired workers in poor accommodation are less productive and less safe. Good beds, reliable air conditioning and clean amenities are practical controls.
Questions for suppliers
- What modules are available now and where are they located?
- Who handles transport, cranage, setup and commissioning?
- What services are included and what is excluded?
- How is maintenance handled during the hire?
Site accommodation is a small town problem. Treat it like logistics, not just hire.