Southern Ports has recently achieved a significant milestone by becoming the fifth port authority in the world to receive ISO 55001:2014 certification for its integrated asset management system. This certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication that Southern Ports has put into designing, developing, and implementing this system across its three ports in Albany, Bunbury, and Esperance over the past four years.
The asset management system at Southern Ports is responsible for overseeing an extensive portfolio valued at over US$1.6 billion, which includes 8,700 owned and maintained assets across 14 different categories. These assets range from sheds, berths, cranes, plant and equipment, navigation aids, to ICT infrastructure. Keith Wilks, the CEO of Southern Ports, emphasized the substantial investment made in the system, but also highlighted the significant benefits that have already been realized.
The enhanced asset management approach has played a crucial role in supporting Southern Ports through its record capital investment program. With nearly 70 renewal projects completed and over US$50 million invested, the system has proven to be instrumental in ensuring the efficient and effective management of assets. The certification of ISO 55001:2014 in November came after a rigorous audit of Southern Ports’ operations and the successful integration of the asset management system within the organization.
Dave Daines, Asset Management System Auditor at Bureau Veritas, commended Southern Ports for its achievement, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by the organization operating across four sites in diverse regions and spanning large distances. Developing an integrated system to meet these complex needs was no small feat, and Southern Ports’ success in doing so is a testament to its commitment to excellence in asset management.
In addition to its recent certification, Southern Ports is also gearing up for a significant development project. The Cook Labor Government has announced plans to finalize a new US$4.7 billion container port in Kwinana, which will replace Fremantle as Western Australia’s primary port. This new project will further highlight the importance of effective asset management in the maritime industry, and Southern Ports is well-positioned to lead the way in this regard.
Dave Daines reiterated the challenges faced by Southern Ports in managing assets across multiple sites and regions, emphasizing the organization’s proactive approach to asset management. The dedication and hard work put into asset management over the past four years have enabled Southern Ports to achieve operational excellence and efficiency, setting a new standard for asset management in the industry.
Overall, Southern Ports’ achievement of ISO 55001:2014 certification is a significant milestone that highlights the organization’s commitment to excellence in asset management. The successful implementation of an integrated system across multiple sites and diverse regions is a testament to Southern Ports’ dedication to operational efficiency and effectiveness. As the organization continues to grow and expand, its proactive approach to asset management will undoubtedly play a key role in its continued success in the maritime industry.
