Longevity a mark of success

AN overarching awareness of occupational safety and health issues prevails on the GV, which at times places restrictions on staff, both on and off the job.

Strict safety standards have resulted in the GV being awarded several safety awards from APPEA, a safety and environment award from BHP Billiton, and a prestigious Golden Gecko from the Department of Industry and Resources.

A fire and evacuation occurred in November 1996 following a manufacturing defect in one of the turbines used to generate power on the vessel. No injuries reported.

In addition to personal protective equipment (PPE), now a standard throughout the resources industry, the general health and well being of staff is also a focal point, with company-led education and nutrition programs, for example, run on board.

While movement above deck is restricted, there is a fully equipped gym and a ‘movie room’, where staff can relax and watch DVDs.

Despite the limitations, several GV employees spoken to by WA Business News say they couldn’t imagine working in any other industry.

Indeed, a total of 13 staff have been working on the GV since it was commissioned and a handful were part of the crew that sailed it from South Korea after it was built.

GV caterer Bob Scott was one of the original crew and is now charged with meeting the nutritional requirements of the hungry workers as part of the onboard maintenance crew.

He’s now responsible for ordering the provisions that make up the $A32,000 monthly food bill.

The 58-year-old Mr Scott says he plans to work on the GV until retirement.

While contract staff come and go from the vessel, Mr Scott said the core staffing on board the GV had remained steady over its 10 years of operation.

Strict safety standards have resulted in the GV being awarded several safety awards.