Objectives

To conduct a comprehensive condition assessment and engineering documentation package for the existing fire protection system at the Port of East London Tanker Berth. The primary goal is to verify current system integrity, ensure regulatory compliance, estimate remaining service life, and provide actionable repair, replacement, and maintenance recommendations to restore long-term operational readiness following observed deterioration.

Scope of Services

• Field Inspection & Testing: Comprehensive evaluation of all firewater and foam system components, including pipework, valves, pumps, fixed monitors, portable pourers, supports, instrumentation, and protective coatings.
• Engineering Documentation: Development of updated as-built drawings (PDF/DWG), a detailed condition assessment report, repair methodology specifications, pipe coating specifications, and a Bill of Quantities (BOQ).
• Foam System Verification: Procurement and field/laboratory testing of a minimum 200 litres of fluorine-free foam concentrate to verify compatibility, induction accuracy, expansion ratio, and discharge performance.
• Electrical & Control Redesign: Root cause analysis and engineering solutions for deluge valve and control system deficiencies, enabling independent monitor operation, rapid system priming, and water hammer mitigation.
• Maintenance Planning: Creation of a five-year forward maintenance schedule aligned with NFPA 25 and relevant SANS codes, including checklists, resource requirements, and record-keeping templates.

Technical Requirements

• Inspection & NDT Methods: External and internal visual inspections, borescope assessments, ultrasonic thickness testing (minimum three readings per metre), and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) including magnetic particle, dye penetrant, radiographic weld testing, and hardness testing per ISO 9712 Level II.
• Performance Testing: Hydraulic and functional tests using water and foam solutions to verify flow rates, nozzle pressure, throw distance, spray patterns, and valve actuation timing against original design criteria and NFPA 11 standards.
• Standards Compliance: Execution must align with latest editions of NFPA (11, 16, 20, 24, 25, 30, 307), EN (1568, 13565), IMO MSC.1/Circ.1312, MED/3.58, ASME B31.3, ISO 12944, SANS/IEC hazardous area standards, and applicable South African legislation.
• Unusual/Complex Terms Explained:
  • Fluorine-Free Foam (FFF): An environmentally safe firefighting agent containing no per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), mandated due to global regulatory phase-outs of traditional AFFF foams.
  • Class 3 Cost Estimate: A preliminary budgetary estimate with an accuracy range of ±20% to ±30%, used during early-stage engineering design and feasibility.
  • Level 3 Programme: A detailed project schedule in Microsoft Project format showing task dependencies, resource allocation, and a clearly defined critical path, with no single activity exceeding two weeks.
• HSE & Operational Constraints: Strict adherence to TNPA safety protocols, hazardous area work permits, PPE requirements, and site access coordination around vessel operations. All works must be completed within five months.

Skills & Qualifications Required

• Professional engineers with expertise in mechanical systems, hydraulic modelling, electrical/control logic, and corrosion/coatings engineering.
• Certified NDT technicians (ISO 9712 Level II) experienced in pipeline and structural integrity assessment.
• Proficiency in CAD software for developing P&IDs, isometric drawings, and layout schematics.
• Strong knowledge of international fire protection standards (NFPA, EN, IMO) and South African regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in hazardous area classification, deluge valve systems, surge/water hammer mitigation, and foam proportioning technology.
• Competency in project scheduling (MS Project), risk management, and preparation of CESMM-aligned BOQs.
• Proven track record in marine/port infrastructure assessments, with demonstrated compliance with occupational health, safety, and environmental management standards.