We commenced our working relationship with Holcim’s Westport cement manufacturing plant in 1977. When the number 2 tyre on Cement Kiln 2 failed we were appointed lead contractor.

What started off as emergency repair developed in to a complex replacement job with a 12 day duration, and a budget of $1.2 million. With anticipated plant closure in 2016 it was critical that a cost effective, fit for purpose solution be found for the remaining lifetime of the plant. The chosen option was a first – a new untried method using a laminated tyre.

We worked extensively with Holcim and suppliers to explore and source a fit for purpose replacement tyre option. Given the complexity, scale and risk the project involved 6 months pre-planning. We assumed the lead project management role coordinating all parties, suppliers and delivery of work.

With 40 tradesmen rotating on 24/7 shifts we successfully completed the job on time and under budget with zero accidents.

FPSO MV Raroa is 252 metres long and 42 metres wide – a vessel of unprecedented scale in Port Nelson. A converted Aframax tanker, it required extensive works as part of an $80 million project.

Kernohan was lead contractor and at the helm of resolving significant infrastructure and resourcing challenges. The scale of works demanded coordination of 150+ specialised workers from diverse suppliers working 24/7 over an 8 week period. The budget was $2.2 million.

Key tasks involved an upgrade to the wellhead platform and processing equipment, and installation of a new swivel to enable rotation on its mooring. A full time manager, project management team and 8 health, safety and environment staff worked 24 hour shifts with comprehensive risk management measures tailored to OMV needs. Shore based services organised including provedoring, merchandising, transport, catering and laundry.

The project was successfully delivered ahead of schedule, within budget, with zero harm to personnel and no environmental impact.