PB’s services are comprehensive, and we provide total project delivery on projects of any scale. Our multidisciplinary team includes drafters, specialists in every branch of engineering, economists, consultation experts, environmental scientists, planners, geospatial information system specialists, project and program managers, construction managers and management consultants.
Acoustics
During the planning, construction and operations phases, our acoustics experts quantify and evaluate the noise and vibration generated by facilities such as airports, highways, railways and factories — as well as their impact on nearby homes, schools, hospitals and other sensitive receivers. Throughout the life of a project, we ensure compliance with the applicable legislation, standards, guidelines and project specifications.
Typical projects include:
- development applications
- environmental impact assessments, including:
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environmental management plans |
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environmental management overview strategies |
- industrial noise control
- noise management plans for:
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occupational noise exposure |
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industrial noise emissions |
- complaint investigations
- expert witness representation
- Building Code of Australia certification.
Our scope of services includes:
- noise modelling and monitoring
- noise contour mapping
- noise source compliance testing
- design of noise abatement measures
- acoustic material evaluation
- barrier design and construction
- exposure criteria, standards, and regulation
- compliance during construction
- operations planning
- sound insulation program implementation.
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Aero-derivative gas turbines
PB has considerable expertise in the design of power plants using GE LM6000, LM5000, LM2500 or Pratt & Whitney aero-derivative turbines. Our engineers have been involved with over 30 aero-derivative units and have developed a comprehensive understanding of the packaged aero-derivative performance, product line, options and after-market services.
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Air quality
PB helps government and industry to examine air quality issues and deliver solutions. PB's multidisciplinary team can provide all the skills required to examine new sources of emissions, audit and assess existing sources, measure and estimate impacts, and design and implement mitigating solutions.
Our specialists include mechanical engineers and scientists experienced in modelling both atmospheric, transport and industrial emission sources; occupational hygienists to ensure occupational health and safety compliance; and environmental scientists to minimise environmental and social impacts. We have expertise in road and rail tunnel air quality design, and environmental measurement data collection of gaseous, particulate and odour levels.
PB has been involved in the ventilation of nearly every major road tunnel in Australia over the last 20 years, including noxious emissions assessment, and management of stakeholders. We have also dealt with dust-related explosions, been involved in a PIARC (World Road Association) committee examining air quality thresholds for tunnels, and worked with mining operations to achieve environmental approvals in relation to air quality.
Our occupational hygiene services in relation to air quality include:
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Alternative contracting methods
PB has played a key role in the development of alliance contracting in Australia. We participated in our first alliances in 1999 and 2000, on the award-winning Awoonga Dam Raising and Port of Brisbane Motorway projects. We are currently participating in the Tullamarine–Calder Interchange Alliance in Melbourne, the NetWorks Alliance in Sydney, and the Tarong Fuel Transport Alliance in Queensland.
While project needs ultimately determine delivery method, the alliancing spirit of collaboration, sustainable development and ‘best-for-project’ is a way of achieving outstanding outcomes in an intensely active market, and making best use of human resources.
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Approvals
See under Planning and approvals.
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Asbestos
PB is a leading consultant on asbestos audits, management and removal. We have NATA-accredited identification and counting laboratories. Our asbestos-related services include:
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building audits
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establishment of asbestos registers
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preparation of asbestos management plans
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risk assessment
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air monitoring
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preparation of asbestos removal specification and contract documentation
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supervision of asbestos removal projects
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training and education
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NATA-accredited laboratory analysis
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development of safe work procedures.
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Aviation
From Hong Kong to Madrid to Texas, PB has influenced the major airport success stories of the past two decades. These include hundreds of assignments for greenfield airports and major airport rehabilitation efforts, and program management roles for $5 billion worth of airport projects. We offer planning, design, construction and operations services.
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Biomass
The term ‘biomass’ generally refers to plant and plant-derived materials. Such materials are a renewable energy resource. The primary source of plant material used in power generation is from the harvesting and processing of agricultural and forestry crops. Biomass resources were often wastes or by-products that could have been used as fuels for producing energy, but instead were discarded or used as landfill.
PB has worked on power projects in New Zealand, Australia, Philippines, Thailand, United Kingdom and the United States that use biomass (including wood waste, bagasse, green waste and biofuels) as the primary fuel source. PB’s contribution to these projects has included:
- conceptual planning and design services
- economic analysis
- environmental permitting assistance
- complete engineering, design, and construction support services.
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BluTripsTM
BluTripsTM uses Bluetooth signal receiver technology to capture and analyse vehicular and non-vehicular travel times, speeds and trip paths. PB is pleased to offer BluTrips to our clients as a rich source of travel information.
BluTrips can:
- provide rigorous travel time and origin-destination (OD) data sets
- use non-invasive technology that does not rely on permanent structures (such as loops)
- provide a cost-effective solution for our clients who need better travel information.
BluTrips uses patent-pending data receivers, brought into Australia and New Zealand under an exclusive import agreement, and specially developed reporting software to provide a uniquely rich source of travel information. The high rate of sampling, and collection in all weathers and light conditions, make BluTrips a very cost-effective means of collecting data not previously considered feasible to collect.
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Bridges
Bridges are used by people every day, providing critical access channels as well as visual appeal. PB has designed, inspected and/or rehabilitated bridges of virtually every type — whether classified by materials, function, structural form or design — as follows:
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materials: reinforced and prestressed concrete, steel, composite steel, advanced composite materials, timber
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function: highway bridges, railway bridges, pedestrian bridges
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structural form: girder bridges, plank bridges, prestressed concrete bridges, segmental concrete bridges, truss bridges, cable-stayed bridges, suspension bridges, stress ribbon bridges, floating bridges, moving bridges (bascule bridges, swing bridges, lift bridges)
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design types: new design, widening of existing, strengthening and rehabilitation, seismic retrofit.
Our services range in size and scope from simple studies and assessments to complex multidisciplinary efforts. On every project, we are committed to maximising infrastructure resources and developing solutions that are aesthetically attractive, as well as cost-effective.
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CADD (computer-aided design and drafting)
We use a variety of CADD systems to speed delivery and improve client service. We electronically deliver drawings using our clients’ required electronic format and standards, tailoring each CADD application to the special needs of the project.
Our CADD specialists provide customised solutions that meet a range of planning, design, management and presentation requirements.
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Climate change
Climate change is complex and consists of many considerations beyond greenhouse gases (GHG). It includes the integration between environmental, economic and social equity. We have brought together all of our expert knowledge, skills and technologies into one central unit offering specific climate change consulting services.
There are two paths of action and services we offer:
- Emissions reduction and carbon accounting services
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GHG auditing and reporting (carbon baselines) |
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Carbon accounting and reduction/offsetting strategies |
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GHG emission reduction technologies and strategies, including alternative design initiatives and energy auditing |
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Strategic advice regarding current and future carbon liabilities |
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Adaptation services
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Strategic advice for risk minimisation for clients across all market sectors, including impacts associated with rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, rising sea levels and changing storm conditions |
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Responses to changes in water availability, land use or value and planning |
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Corporate climate change adaptation strategies |
Our expertise is valued by our clients, here's how we've helped them:
- A landmark national infrastructure assessment study for adaptation measures, investment and economic analysis
- Australia's first whole-of-government greenhouse gas inventory
- Australia's low emissions technology funded projects
- A pilot plant at the world's largest geothermal reserve
- UNFCCC expert panels related to the Kyoto protocol
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Coal-fired power plants
PB’s United States operation pioneered the highly specialised technology of circulating fluidised bed (CFB), a method of burning particulate fuel, such as coal, while suspended in an air stream. This involvement resulted in the world’s first, large-scale fluidised bed combustor at Rivesville, West Virginia, which was the prototype of CFBs that are installed today throughout the United States and the world.
Our project experience includes:
- analysis and design of coal-fired power plants
- conveyance and trans-shipment of coal
- control of ash particulates and by-products of the combustion process
- conversion of coal-fired facilities to alternative fuels.
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Cogeneration
Cogeneration is the simultaneous production of electricity and heat energy (usually steam) using one primary energy source, with an overall energy efficiency often exceeding 70%. This high efficiency is achieved by making use of the waste heat in exhaust gas from prime movers (such as gas turbines or diesel engines).
PB has been directly involved with cogeneration projects worldwide:
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as owner’s engineer
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as a member of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) teams
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undertaking feasibility studies for a diverse range of facilities, including universities, research laboratories, and industrial, commercial and institutional complexes
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delivering owner’s engineer roles for cogeneration schemes fired on natural gas, wood waste, bagasse, process gas and coal.
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Combined-cycle gas turbine
Because of its higher fuel efficiencies, combined-cycle gas turbine technology (CCGT) is becoming increasingly popular. The latest CCGT designs now achieve up to 60% fuel efficiency. By using the heat in the exhaust gas from a gas turbine to power a steam turbine, the owner gains additional economic benefits. PB’s involvement in plant rehabilitations, extensions and modernisations results in greater cycle efficiencies and reduced operating costs.
Key PB strengths are our global coverage, our extensive recent experience working with the leading suppliers of CCGT plant, and our familiarity with all CCGT technologies and recent advances.
Our engineers have developed a comprehensive understanding of CCGT plant performance, product line, options and after-market services.
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Community consultation and communication
Our consultation and communication experts are experienced in working with numerous stakeholders to bring large, complex projects to successful completion. Specific expertise includes:
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preparation, implementation and management of consultation, community involvement, and community relations strategies
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community information and communication tools, including print and electronic materials, publicity and promotional events
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facilitation, public workshops, and reference group management
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key stakeholder liaison
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property owner consultation
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search conferences
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issues management
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social impact and socioeconomic assessment
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social research and planning
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media liaison
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training.
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Construction management
PB offers professional construction management services tailored to the size and complexity of any given project — and backed by our corporate commitment to total quality management.
On complex assignments involving numerous projects and contractors, PB's construction management services typically begin during design, and include:
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schedule and budget evaluations
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value engineering
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constructability reviews
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accuracy checks on cost estimates
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assessing project alternatives
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structuring bid packages for lowest cost construction
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monitoring and coordinating daily construction activities.
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Contaminated site assessment and remediation
We provide comprehensive services for the remediation and reuse of contaminated land, which include:
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Stage 1 (historical review) assessment
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Stage 2 (site) assessment
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submission of reports to environmental authorities for suitability statements
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remedial action plan preparation
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remedial design and implementation of ex situ and in situ remediation for soil and groundwater
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soil and groundwater clean-up
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monitoring
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validation
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risk assessment
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due diligence assessments.
Our experience spans the complex tasks required to remediate contaminated land and groundwater, and our remediation specialists consider alternative techniques or combined approaches to contaminant problems.
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Dangerous Goods Safety Management
Our services in Dangerous Goods Safety Management include:
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Risk management
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site audits |
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compliance audits and reports |
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dangerous goods, hazardous substance risk assessment |
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development of risk registers |
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incident investigation reports and recommendations |
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integrated occupational health, hygiene and safety solutions |
- Training needs
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customised training packages |
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Planning and design
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package storage and site layout, separation distances |
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Documentation
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risk assessment records |
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hazardous materials emergency plans and procedures |
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emergency services manifests and site plans |
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safety management systems, procedures and permit to work systems (integrated for health, safety and environment needs) |
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notifications, development applications and licence approvals |
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dangerous goods placards and signage |
- Regulatory agency liaison and representation
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audit representation and preparation |
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independent studies or audit reports |
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Design
Our design professionals collectively represent every engineering discipline, including civil, mechanical, structural, acoustic, environmental, electrical, chemical, geotechnical, water and wastewater. We can provide multidisciplinary teams for concept/preliminary design, detailed design, design review/approval and hazard evaluation for all types of infrastructure across the transport, water, resources, industry, energy and urban development sectors.
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Design and construct
PB is comfortable working in the design and construct environment, and has taken the lead design role on numerous projects, including EastLink in Victoria. We have also acted in the role of owner’s engineer, liaising between the owner and multiple stakeholders, consultants and contractors. Our involvement can range from general engineering consultant, responsible for developing specific design and construct packages, to program or project management, where we are responsible for extending into the procurement, construction and operating phases.
In every collaboration, we leverage our extensive technical knowledge and expertise to ensure that our partners and clients gain full benefit from the design and construct approach.
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Due diligence: power
PB has built a reputation for providing specialist due diligence services, acting for either the sponsor or the lenders, on a significant number of projects around the world.
The key to undertaking this role is the ability to supply independent technical advice so that risks can be assessed and either accepted or mitigated through the various project agreements.
We have undertaken due diligence on generating technology projects for:
Similarly PB has undertaken due diligence for acquisitions, mergers and debt refinancing for utilities including:
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gas transmission pipelines
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gas distribution networks
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gas storage facilities
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electrical transmission networks
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electrical distribution networks
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high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems.
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Education
See 'Health care and education'
Electrical, instrumentation and control systems
PB provides comprehensive systems and electrical engineering services in support of transport, water, mining, energy and industry projects, including:
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high-voltage transmission
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low-voltage transmission and reticulation
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design services, such as schematics, terminations, layouts
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instrumentation design and selection
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process and instrumentation diagrams
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control system design, including PLC, telemetry and DCS
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telemetry and SCADA system designs and strategies
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earthing and lightning protection
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lighting
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fire detection and alarm
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safety auditing.
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Electronic tolling systems
PB offers a range of services in the design and construction of tolling systems, including feasibility, design, testing, construction assistance and commissioning of the following:
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electronic toll collection systems
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coin tolling
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violation monitoring
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enforcement cameras
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vehicle monitoring and tracking
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back office systems
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laser detection
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loop detection and vehicle classification.
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Energy
PB offers an extensive range of services to the energy sector in Australia in the areas of:
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planning and development
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engineering design
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construction management
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operations and maintenance
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independent engineering assessment
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generational technology assessments
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due diligence assessments.
Our combined services provide comprehensive technical, commercial and development solutions based on experience in a wide range of roles and with emerging technologies.
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Environment
PB supports public and private sector clients' environmental programs and meets the environmental mandates of our own projects. Our experienced staff of environment specialists in a range of disciplines, including ecologists, botanists, zoologists, engineers, geologists, social scientists, consultation consultants and planners, help to achieve environmental compliance for a wide range of projects.
Our environmental team is extensively experienced in:
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environmental impact statements
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environmental impact assessment studies
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reviews of environmental factors
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environmental management and monitoring plans
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specialist studies in ecology and biodiversity, flora and fauna, noise, air quality, economic analysis, social analysis, land use planning, social assessment, hydrology, catchment management, risk assessment, contaminated land, traffic impact
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community consultation
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project management
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on-site environmental management
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obtaining permits and statutory approvals
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environmental auditing and due diligence
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environmental management systems (development and auditing)
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geospatial intelligence solutions (GIS).
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Events Management
PB provides a tailored service to our events clients worldwide. We aim to develop innovative and cost-effective project outcomes that offer benefits that exceed standards and may challenge existing behaviours of event patrons. We aspire to make travel a smooth and pleasant part of the total event experience. PB's event capabilities include:
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transport management, traffic control, crowd and event management plans
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modelling for pedestrians; multimodal transport microsimulation; and citywide event transport network assessment
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spectator demand forecasting
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operations planning and management for public transport services
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transport and passenger facility design
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car park design and management
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travel demand management
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risk management and contingency planning
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intelligent transport systems and transport control centre design
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monitoring and assessment of operations
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Generator connections
PB’s expertise in all the facets of connecting a generator to an electricity network includes:
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conducting initial feasibility studies for connection options
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carrying out power system studies
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investigating protection coordination
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analysing power quality issues
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identifying benefits of proposed generation to electricity network
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developing connection agreements
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undertaking negotiations with electricity businesses and other parties
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commissioning and operating the project.
These services are typically applied to all forms of generation technologies including:
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gas-fired generation
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coal-fired generation
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wind farms
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solar farms
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cogeneration facilities
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geothermal power plant.
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Geotechnical engineering
PB has long been a leader in engineering below ground. We can handle the complexities of preparing the earth for any type of structure to ensure quick, safe, economical and low-risk construction. We provide complete geotechnical, design and construction services for transit, road, rail, utility, marine, mining, water conveyance and hydroelectric projects. We have designed new tunnels and rehabilitated existing tunnel structures for rail, utility, transit and road vehicle use throughout the world.
Our specialties include:
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foundations
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retaining structures
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slope stability analysis and design
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seismic engineering
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risk analysis and value management
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tunnels and underground engineering
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mining
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geotechnical assistance for contractors
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investigation of failures, and remedial works
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geographic information systems
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applied geology
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groundwater and hydrogeology
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environmental management
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site investigation
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ground treatment and soft ground engineering
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dam and reservoir engineering
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waste management and landfills
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laboratory testing.
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Geothermal power
Since PB’s team engineered the original Wairakei geothermal power station in New Zealand, we have managed the construction of geothermal plants around the world including in Indonesia, Kenya and Ethiopia.
Our depth of geothermal science and engineering expertise includes:
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detailed technical inputs (such as field surveys, drilling operations and power plant commissioning)
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higher level reservoir modelling
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feasibility studies
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project development
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due diligence roles.
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GIS and Project Visualisation
GIS and Project Visualisation are two service lines offered by PB's Geospatial Section, enabling clients to manage, store and visualise large amounts of spatial information to support projects at all scales.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide the hardware, software, procedures and experts to facilitate the management, manipulation, modelling, analysis, representation and display of geo-referenced data to solve complex problems. PB's experienced GIS team specialise in strategic consulting, operational and analytical GIS, database management, application development, web services, spatial asset management (SAM), mobile GIS-GPS and systems architecture necessary to design and implement effective spatial solutions. GIS is being increasingly utilised on projects across all PB's business units as a platform for integration and management of spatial information, controlling data flow, guaranteeing quality assurance, minimising risk and disseminating knowledge throughout project teams during the whole-of-project-life-cycle.
The Project Visualisation team utilise top-of-the-line, industry-standard hardware and software to provide a complete range of visualisation and simulation services to projects. These services enhance and communicate complex technical information to help clients and the public visualise project elements not easily explained verbally, or in 2-D plan drawings. The team forms part of PB's global project visualisation community, leveraging best-practice user interface design, user experience, graphics production, multimedia technologies and application development to create innovative and cost-effective solutions tailored specifically to project needs. The team structure includes two service delivery channels: Design Visualisation and Motion Graphics.
- Design Visualisation incorporates photo-simulations, 3-D modelling and 3-D animation tools to study design alternatives and construction sequencing, contributing towards building consensus and public trust. It enables owners, architects, engineers, designers and their constituents to accelerate the entitlement process, speed up financing, increase pre-sales and pre-lease contracts, and enhance marketing strategies.
- Motion Graphics is the sequencing and integration of compelling images, text, live action video, graphics and sound to help sell an idea, or tell a short-story. The aim is to visually inform and educate an audience on complex technical subjects.
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Groundwater
PB understands the technical, ecological and regulatory issues relating to groundwater assessment, resource development and environmental management across a range of diverse projects.
Groundwater can be a resource or an environmental hazard, depending on the nature of the project and the specific issues to be addressed. We have a wide range of experience in water supply, mining, oil and gas, contaminated sites, environmental assessment and engineering applications.
Our team includes specialists in geology, hydrogeology, modelling, hydrogeochemistry, and geotechnical engineering. Our services include:
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hydrogeological studies
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groundwater assessment and management
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drilling and pumping test program supervision
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catchment and policy studies
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groundwater geophysics
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land resource assessment
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dryland and irrigation salinity
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geotechnical studies (e.g. dewatering, water inflow, grouting)
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contaminated site assessment and remediation
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acid sulfate soil assessment and management
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groundwater assessment and management in mining
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groundwater infrastructure
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groundwater monitoring and management programs
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compliance monitoring and reporting
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sustainable land management
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GIS/LRIS and hydrogeomorphic modelling
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water balance and groundwater modelling (numerical and analytical).
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Hazardous materials
PB develops solutions for managing hazardous materials, including hazardous waste, through:
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chemical engineering
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hydrogeology
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microbiology
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resource management
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auditing of safety management
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hazard and risk analysis and assessment
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hazard and operability studies
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development of safety management systems
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development of emergency plans
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design and development of preventative mitigation.
Our experts ensure compliance with today's strict regulations for the management, storage, disposal and clean-up of hazardous materials.
See also Asbestos and Contaminated site assessment and remediation.
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Health care and education
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High-voltage direct current transmission systems
PB has wide-ranging experience with high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems including:
PB is very familiar with all HVDC projects operating or under construction in Australia and within the Asia–Pacific region: in particular we have been involved with MurrayLink, DirectLink and BassLink.
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Hydropower
PB’s extensive hydropower experience is founded on our active involvement in thousands of megawatts of generating plant at numerous sites around the world. Our project roles have included:
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advice to banks on the financing of assets
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technical advice to governments and utilities on the un-bundling and restructuring of power projects around the world
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conventional hydropower, small hydropower and pumped storage schemes
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rehabilitation and refurbishment
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financial and owner investment
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asset management
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performance testing.
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Industry
PB provides a broad range of environmental and engineering services across industrial sectors that include:
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metal products
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non-metallic mineral products
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petroleum, coal, chemical and associated products
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food and beverage
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wood and paper products
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machinery and equipment
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telecommunications.
Some of the largest petrochemical, power and manufacturing companies in the world rely on PB for expertise in environmental planning, permitting and licensing, design and construction management, and environmental problem-solving. Our services also include project management; civil, structural, mechanical and electrical design; instrumentation and controls; procurement; and remediation of abandoned mine workings.
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Integrated water cycle management
PB is highly attuned to the technical, ecological and regulatory issues that face the water industry in Australia and overseas. To meet these demands, PB provides complete project solutions with multidisciplinary services that encompass the whole water cycle. Our capabilities include:
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in-depth understanding of, and ability to manage, the complete hydrologic cycle
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extensive knowledge of policy and standards
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yield assessment
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master planning and policy development through to detailed design
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rainwater water-tank simulation.
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Intelligent transport systems
PB has engineered some of the most successful intelligent transport systems (ITS) for today's technologically advanced traffic management systems.
Our from-concept-to-operations services ensure well-designed projects that are environment- and community-sensitive. Our capabilities cover:
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advanced transportation and passenger information systems
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incident detection systems
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traffic control systems
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real-time control systems software and telecommunication
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variable message signs
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variable speed limit signs
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integrated ticketing
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closed-circuit TV (CCTV)
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emergency vehicle priority
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route guidance.
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Investment studies
PB has completed a large number of major investment studies (MIS) locally and globally.
Client confidence is the reason behind our selection for so many assignments. PB's clients appreciate our responsiveness to their local needs while at the same time we draw on best practice from around the world.
PB's MIS expertise covers a wide range of facility types, from complex urban transport systems, to power, water and urban development, including property — through the entire project lifecycle.
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Land development
PB’s services to support land development include:
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planning
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environmental assessment
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traffic and transport
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water and wastewater
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integrated water-cycle management and water-sensitive urban design
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consultation and communications
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project management
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contaminated land
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road and drainage design
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economics
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geospatial intelligence solutions
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geotechnical
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urban design and landscape
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sustainable development
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subdivision design.
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Liquefied natural gas
PB’s diverse team of in-house consultants is able to provide advice to owner/operators, lenders, regulators and governments on key aspects of projects in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) and natural gas industries. PB has a strong track record with gas infrastructure typically relating to:
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Mechanical engineering
PB's capabilities include all aspects of mechanical design services for mining, industrial, water and transport facilities, including:
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remaining life assessment and structural recovery
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design auditing
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design analysis and advanced modeling using finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
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concept design
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mechanical engineering plant and process design
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materials handling design and analysis
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failure investigations
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plant capacity upgrades
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energy efficiency studies
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general mechanical engineering design
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simulation studies
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noise and vibration investigations
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product and plan improvement studies.
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Mining
PB has the capability to take complete responsibility for all mine infrastructure and environmental development needs. Specifically, our experience in mining relates to:
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project management
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construction management
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feasibility studies
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geotechnical studies
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surface facilities infrastructure
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power and communications
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water supply and management
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materials handling
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environmental approvals and management
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transport and regional development
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rail loading facilities and spur lines
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mine accommodation.
We also provide environmental services to the mining industry, including:
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due diligence audits
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preparation of initial advice statements (IASs), environmental impact statements (EISs), environmental management overview strategies (EMOSs), plans of operations (PoOs), and environmental management plans (EMPs)
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statutory negotiations
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community consultation.
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Networks
PB brings together the full electrical skills needed to serve the power generation, transmission, distribution and utilisation industries.
PB has a number of proprietary software packages for undertaking system studies and fault analysis.
Specialist experience and expertise covers:
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transmission and distribution design
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system planning
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power system studies
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protection reviews
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generator connection studies
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capital expenditure (capex) project planning
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transmission line design
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high-voltage substation design
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high-voltage procurement specification development
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asset management advisory services.
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Noise and vibration
During the planning, construction and operations phases, our acoustics experts quantify and evaluate the noise and vibration generated by facilities such as airports, highways, railways and factories — as well as their impact on nearby homes, schools, hospitals and other sensitive receivers. Throughout the life of a project, we ensure compliance with the applicable legislation, standards, guidelines and project specifications.
Typical projects include:
Our scope of services includes:
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noise modelling and monitoring
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noise contour mapping
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noise source compliance testing
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design of noise abatement measures
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acoustic material evaluation
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barrier design and construction
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exposure criteria, standards, and regulation
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compliance during construction
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operations planning
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sound insulation program implementation.
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Occupational hygiene
PB is a leader in the field of occupational hygiene. Our team of qualified occupational hygienists and specialist engineers provides a range of services, including:
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assessments of occupational exposure to various contaminants
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health-based risk assessments
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hazmat building surveys (including asbestos, lead, PCBs, SMF, radioactive substances, CFCs)
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noise exposure assessments
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heat stress assessments
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radiation (non-ionising) assessments
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lead-based paint surveys
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sick building syndrome and building health audits
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biological monitoring (e.g. mould, bacteria)
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water damage assessments, including moisture readings and remediation management
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dangerous goods compliance audits
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gases and vapours exposure monitoring (including VOCs, formaldehyde, CO, CO2, O3, PAHs, styrene, NOX, SOX)
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dusts and fumes exposure monitoring (including asbestos, respirable and inspirable dust, quartz, welding fumes)
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confined space entry
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indoor air quality assessments
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drinking water quality assessments
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specialist technical training (e.g. asbestos awarenesss, occupational noise)
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preparing safety and health plans and programs
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occupational and environmental modelling.
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Oil and gas
Around the world, PB provides the technical, management and commercial expertise to plan, design and implement onshore and marine pipelines for oil, natural gas and refined petroleum products. We collaborate with independent oil/gas producers, banks and funding agencies, industrial and institutional energy users, governments and their regulatory bodies, and power utilities.
We provide a complete range of services, such as environmental assessment and planning, due diligence, route selection, and engineering design for the complete spectrum of oil and gas facilities, including underwater pipelines and offshore gasfield development. With our extensive experience in distribution pipelines throughout the world, we’ve been responsible for major projects in Bangladesh, USA, Europe and the Middle East.
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PlaceMaking
The PlaceMaking group brings together technical skills, experience and vision to plan and design outstanding places for communities that will stand the test of time.
Our clients are often trying to redirect several decades of thought regarding transport and land use practices. We provide the ideas, tools and specialist advice through integration of land use, economics, mobility, community space and urban form to move people and move minds, and not just cars.
We offer an integrated service line that includes:
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Transit Oriented Development (TOD) - Creating vital communities through transit and optimising the opportunities for welcoming, walkable and mixed-use neighbourhoods.
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Sustainable community development - Master planning economically viable, socially responsible and environmentally friendly communities.
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Integrated transport and land use planning - Ensuring the integration of transport and transit planning with land use planning including enquiry-by-design workshops, sketch modelling and appropriate policy development.
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Regional growth management - Helping communities envisage alternative solutions and crafting the regulatory and statutory guidance to achieve them.
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Land use planning and public policy - Providing innovative land use plans and policies at a regional community and neighbourhood scale.
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Community consultation - Working with the community and key stakeholders to maximise opportunities and improve project outcomes.
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Urban design and landscape architecture - Planning and designing people-friendly environments devoted to civic vitality and lasting urban density.
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Urban housing - Maximising the potential for people to achieve quality housing choice and diversity.
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Transit architecture - Designing the form and function to transit station areas to achieve active and dynamic destinations.
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Sustainable transportation - Moving people, goods and minds through multi-model solutions.
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Planning and approvals
Widely recognised for our planning capabilities, PB achieves client goals while maintaining sensitivity and respect for local communities. Our approach to each assignment is collaborative, comprehensive, environmentally sensitive, cost-effective and innovative.
Our planning consultants possess expertise in:
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strategic planning
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statutory planning
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community planning, social impact assessments, and demographic analysis
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local area planning
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economic impact assessments
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sustainable development strategies
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transit-oriented development strategies
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community consultation
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development applications, environmental and statutory permitting
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infrastructure charges planning
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site disposal and selection
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environmental planning, and environmental impact assessments
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master planning and urban design.
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Ports
PB is a global leader in the transport and infrastructure sector, which includes the planning, design and construction of the following port and marine facilities:
PB provides the following specialised services to the maritime industry:
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port traffic forecasts
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master planning
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port operations planning
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cargo-handling systems
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port management analysis
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condition surveys
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coastal engineering
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geotechnical services
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seismic design
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environmental engineering
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environmental impact assessment
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regulatory compliance and permitting
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dredging works
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management of contaminated sediment.
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Program management
Large, complex infrastructure programs are filled with unique challenges. To guide these multi-project, multi-phase capital works from concept to completion and overcome the inevitable obstacles along the way, clients worldwide call on PB.
PB has established itself as a leader in managing the development and delivery of major infrastructure capital works programs — from transport interchanges, to toll road networks, water and wastewater facilities, leading-edge information and communications technology (ICT) and intelligent transport systems (ITS), and to large-scale scientific and environmental improvement initiatives.
Our comprehensive services in program management include:
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strategic business case development
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financial and economic planning and analysis
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full-service outsourced program portfolio management, reporting and advisory services
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master schedule preparation
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procurement and delivery packaging
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design, construction, and test and commissioning management.
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Project control services
PB offers professional project control services to promote the delivery assurance and cost control of capital works at all stages of project development, from design to procurement, construction and commissioning.
Our services are tailored to the size and complexity of any given project — and backed by a corporate commitment to total quality management.
We provide expert support to client program and project managers, bringing significant benefits in reducing the risks of delivery and cost over-runs by:
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developing comprehensive critical path method (CPM) master schedules
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using rigorous progress monitoring procedures, trend and scenario analyses to maintain project completion deadlines
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providing accurate cost-to-completion estimates for efficient drawdown of capital funds
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forecasting changing labour resource requirements for the efficient allocation of skilled design and construction personnel.
PB’s planning and scheduling engineers are skilled practitioners in the development of master schedules for complex multidisciplinary projects, and in the implementation of updating and progress reporting procedures to meet the specific requirements of particular projects and clients.
Key services include:
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custom-built schedules and output reports from industry-standard project management software packages Primavera P3, SureTrak, MS Project
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schedule and cost risk analysis using triangular, beta curve three point, and Monte Carlo modelling
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integrated time and cost reporting based on the earned value method and using best practice key performance indicators.
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Project management
PB's project management capabilities aggregate our experience, resources and expertise in planning, engineering and management. We can take an entire project from first concept through the environmental impact assessment processes and permits; financing and funding; design, procurement and construction; start-up; operations; and asset management.
PB has the tools, skills, resources and experience needed to deliver projects successfully. We offer solid expertise in:
In addition, PB has specialists in diverse areas such as financial services, project controls, community and stakeholder consultation, and risk management.
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Rail
PB is a recognised leader in modern rail engineering as well as a specialist in operations and management. We have planned, designed and managed the construction of thousands of miles of railway systems worldwide.
PB is currently engaged in the delivery of a number of key rail projects and strategies throughout Australia, with strong capabilities through feasibility, development, engineering and design of rail infrastructure, control and power systems. We have rail specialists in PB offices across the country, supported by international PB specialists to provide local clients with the best in global rail expertise.
PB is well equipped to respond to the industry’s needs in:
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intermodal and multimodal transportation
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track, structures and facility design and inspection
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tunnels and subsurface structures
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bridge design and inspection
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signal and communications systems
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electrification
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equipment analysis
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rolling stock
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maintenance facilities
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asset management.
We provide clients with a full range of support, including alternative evaluations, systems design, fire/life-safety programs, systems assurance, environment, health and safety, operations and maintenance plans, simulations, procurement support, testing and start-up.
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Repowering and rehabilitation
Each rehabilitation and repowering project is unique and requires the development of differing strategies to meet the owner’s specific drivers. Typically the owner wishes to extend the life of existing assets by maximising performance and reliability. PB’s involvement in plant repowering, rehabilitation and modernisation has resulted in greater cycle efficiencies and reduced operating costs.
Typical services offered include:
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project definition and development
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options studies
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infrastructure re-use studies
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repowering versus rehabilitation
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full engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) specification development
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owner’s engineer role.
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Resource efficiency
Using resources more efficiently is one of the keys to reducing our emissions. We have a long history of helping businesses to successfully identify and implement resource efficiency projects. Our broad range of projects include:
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assisting clients with NGER assessments and reporting, carbon accounting and development of carbon management strategies
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a Level 2 energy audit of Parliament House
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EEO and EREP assessments for industrial processes for one of Australia's largest dairy manufacturers
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investigation of the most suitable waste to energy technology for a range of organic feed stocks
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reducing hazardous waste disposed of to landfill using the waste hierarchy
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water audits and development of water management action plans for major customers of the water retailers.
Our resource efficiency service assists clients in developing and implementing management policies, understanding existing resource use profiles and identifying opportunities for improved resource efficiency in their operations. PB meets the needs of clients by:
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aiming for the lowest operational energy and greenhouse footprint
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seeking to maximise use of renewable resources
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identifying causes of waste generation and excessive water use
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providing best practice measurement methods to optimise resource efficiency
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aiming for maximum plant productivity
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reducing maintenance and material costs
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calculating the unit cost of principal environmental and resource items
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recommending effective methods for efficient use of energy, water and materials.
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Roads
PB understands the challenges of today's highways:
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making roads safer and more affordable
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managing congestion and traffic flow
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efficiently using infrastructure assets.
As a pioneer in developing major highways and roadways throughout the world, PB offers the full range of expertise necessary for a successful project.
We have designed the full spectrum of highways: small to large; urban to rural; and simple to complex. We help clients find innovative ways to finance, deliver and manage highways, and have been involved in flagship design–build and build–operate–transfer projects around the globe.
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Structural engineering
PB provides comprehensive structural engineering services on projects worldwide, planning and designing structures such as:
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mining infrastructure
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buildings
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bridges
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dams
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towers
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platforms
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retaining walls
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foundations.
Our services include inspections, testing and feasibility studies and industrial structure design. Our structural engineers work closely with PB's other engineering specialists to define and refine a client's requirements within the context of cost, quality, functionality and aesthetics. Our goal is to develop safe and cost-effective solutions derived from an optimum balance of all relevant aspects of the project.
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Surface water
PB provides complete project solutions with services that encompass the whole water cycle. Services relating to surface water include:
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water resources
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water resources planning and studies |
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design and documentation for water infrastructure (dams, weirs, pipelines, irrigation, bridges, culverts, channels and levees) |
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dam safety inspections and failure impact assessment |
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mine water supply and management
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mine water management and water balance modelling |
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final void modelling and assessment for mine closure |
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flooding, stormwater and catchment management
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hydrologic and hydraulic modelling studies |
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stormwater management plans and studies |
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integrated catchment management |
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flood mitigation assessment and inundation mapping |
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flood impact assessments for planning and development applications |
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design of creek diversions and geomorphologic assessment |
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design of detention basins and stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs) (wetlands, gross pollutant traps (GPTs) and other pollutant control devices) |
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urban drainage analysis and infrastructure design |
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other services
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hazard/risk assessment and management |
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environmental monitoring, investigations and modelling |
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community and stakeholder consultation, education and training |
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geospatial intelligence solutions (GIS) and land information systems. |
Systems and electrical
See under Electrical, instrumentation and control systems, Intelligent transport systems, and Electronic tolling systems.
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Telecommunications
PB excels in designing power communications infrastructure in support of the power industry. Our comprehensive range of services, combined with our local presence and geographical reach, enables PB to assist clients anywhere in the world in developing power communication infrastructure. We offer expertise in the areas of:
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Traffic and transport planning
PB is a world leader in transport planning, and has a long history of best practice and innovation in Australian traffic engineering. Our experience is augmented by PB’s worldwide access to resources and state-of-the-art practice.
Our traffic engineering services include:
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traffic impact assessment
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multimodal integrated traffic assignment and design
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local area traffic management
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road safety audits, from motorways to local intersections
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intersection level of service simulation
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parking demand, regulation and design studies
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intelligent transport systems
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travel demand management
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worksite traffic management plans.
Our transport planning services include:
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strategic integrated transport and land use planning
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corridor studies
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public transport and interchange studies
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transport management for special events
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transport policy
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project assessment and evaluation.
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Transport infrastructure services
As one of Australia’s first and largest traffic and transport consultants, PB has the combined experience, technical capability, and expert knowledge to provide exceptional service to the transport industry.
PB provides planning, operational design and project management for every type of major land transport system. Areas of expertise range from traditional railways, highways and innovative public transport systems, to building services for seaports and environmental impact studies for airports.
PB is able to meet the growing need for coordinated and integrated transport systems, while fully recognising and accounting for environmental and socioeconomic issues.
Our transport planners, designers and engineers have experience in:
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concept planning, preliminary and detailed design of infrastructure for:
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roads (urban, arterial, rural), freeways, highways |
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cycle and pedestrian facilities |
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freight and passenger rail lines |
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airport facilities, including taxiways and runways |
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tunnels for road and rail, including emergency services provisions |
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structures, including bridges and other transport structures |
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intelligent transport systems and tolling facilities/systems |
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port and ferry facilities |
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safety audits of proposed and constructed road projects
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crash statistics review and improvement recommendations for existing road projects
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project and construction management of transport infrastructure works
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environmental assessments and approvals.
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Transport modelling
PB uses state-of-the-art software and techniques to produce regional and local transport models that can estimate traffic and modal travel, assign passengers and vehicles to network, and estimate travel impacts.
We have a suite of applications that can be applied to add value for our clients, delivering the best results in both turnaround time and cost-effectiveness. Toll revenue forecasting is a specialty. Applications range from major investment strategies for inter-regional travel infrastructure to purpose-built simulations.
Software currently in use includes EMME/2, CUBE, TransCAD, VISUM, Paramics, VISSIM, TranScope, SIDRA, and SCATES, along with many other packages.
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Tunnelling
For more than a century, PB has helped to define the technology that has shaped tunnel engineering. Our team of tunnel designers in Australia has contributed to several of the largest underground infrastructure projects in the region over the last decade.
We continue to make important contributions to the design and construction of tunnels for:
Our experience spans underground projects from feasibility to rehabilitation, and we respond to the full range of our clients' project delivery needs.
PB's research and development programs have produced tools of the trade: Our Tunnel engineering handbook and Subway environmental handbook are considered to be authoritative resources for tunnel design worldwide.
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Urban development planning
Whether it's for a flourishing urban setting, a new city or a rural setting with development opportunities, we develop plans that meet our clients' needs. Our multidisciplinary planning teams work with clients and communities to arrive at solutions that are sensible, supportable, well-received by the public — and that provide for future growth. Our professional services include:
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land use planning at the statewide, regional and local levels
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site planning
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growth management
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master and comprehensive planning
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transport and land use integration, including:
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transport planning |
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water infrastructure planning, including water cycle management, water services, stormwater planning, and sewerage |
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environment |
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transit-oriented development
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large-scale urban design
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commercial district and local area economic analyses
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housing and community development
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park/recreation/open space analysis
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waterfront/coastal zone management analysis
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industrial and office park planning
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reuse planning for Defence land
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sustainability assessments
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demographic and socioeconomic analysis.
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Value engineering
PB defines value engineering as a systematic, creative effort to analyse a project's systems and components, ensuring that required functions are achieved at the lowest possible overall cost — without sacrificing quality, safety or reliability.
We have developed a broad range of value engineering experience with transit, highway, marine, industrial, energy generation, commercial and governmental projects. Our in-house teams of qualified professionals have both formal training and hands-on experience, making them well prepared to approach every assignment in an effective and efficient manner.
Our experience has demonstrated that ‘value’ is built into a project, not added later: the greatest benefits to a client are realised in the early phases of a project. The PB philosophy centres around involving the project owner in value engineering early in the design process.
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Water and wastewater
PB is highly attuned to the technical, ecological and regulatory issues that face the water industry in Australia and overseas. To meet these demands PB provides complete project solutions with services that encompass the whole water cycle. PB's multidisciplinary skills extend to engineering, management and operation, strategy development and investment decisions for a range of water projects.
Our highly skilled teams include civil, hydraulic, chemical, mechanical and electrical engineers, hydrologists, hydrogeologists, water quality scientists, regulatory specialists and environmental scientists that provide the capability to meet all our clients' needs.
The services we provide include:
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water resources assessment
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water and wastewater management, including effluent recycling
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process design, including membrane treatment
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desalination
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asset management
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water quality and environmental management
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contaminated site assessment and remediation
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policy, guideline and regulatory advice
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strategy planning, reviews and auditing
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environmental assessment, planning and approvals
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commissioning.
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Wind power
PB has carried out numerous feasibility studies and wind-farm-related assignments in Europe, the United States, Central and South America, China, Japan, Pakistan, and the Philippines, as well as Australia and New Zealand.
Our project experience ranges from micro-siting of single wind turbines and small- scale wind farms right through to large-scale wind power stations in complex terrain and high-wind-speed environments.
Our involvement in all stages of wind-farm development includes desktop studies, wind monitoring, site visits and multi-criteria ranking process to enable identification and selection of prospective wind-farm sites; design and development; and resource, environmental planning, permitting processes and public consultation.
PB’s expertise also covers:
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wind turbine generator research
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energy optimisation calculations for wind/diesel, village electrification and grid connected renewable energy systems
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electrical interconnection, wind power assessment and grid impact studies
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owner’s engineer and project management services
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due diligence and lender’s engineer services.
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