Major mining and resource projects don’t break ground without facing some major hurdles: remote site access, extreme climates, tight budgets, environmental compliance and ever-shifting deadlines. It’s a tough brief, and traditional building methods don’t always keep pace, often being too slow, too rigid and too resource-intensive for dynamic or remote worksites.
Here’s how DomeShelter™ Fabric Structures solve five of the biggest challenges faced by project teams and site managers.
1. Deploying Infrastructure to Remote Sites
The Challenge
Remote projects face major logistical barriers. Freight is expensive, road access is limited, and skilled labour is often in short supply. Transporting materials and labour to isolated regions like the Pilbara or outback Queensland adds cost and complexity, especially for FIFO schedules.
The DomeShelter™ Solution
DomeShelter™ Structures are designed to be packed and shipped in kit form for efficient and cost-effective transport. Once on site, they can be installed using basic tools by on-site crews. Every structure comes with a comprehensive installation guide and access to expert support to assist contractors and in-house teams.
With our DomeShelter™ Standard Products range, shelter solutions can be dispatched in as little as 24 hours, and erected in as little as 1-2 working days.
Practical Results
- Warehousing and workshops operational within days, not weeks
- Reduced transport costs through flat-pack, containerised delivery
- Faster project mobilisation with less reliance on external contractors
2. Protecting People and Assets from Harsh Conditions
The Challenge
Australia’s mining regions are known for extreme heat, dust, cyclonic-winds and salt exposure. Unprotected equipment tends to degrade faster, leading to more breakdowns, extended downtime, and higher maintenance costs. Even more critically, the safety and wellbeing of workers are at risk without reliable shelter from the elements.
The DomeShelter™ Solution
DomeShelter™ Structures are engineered to the latest Australian Standards (AS1170.2:2021), and are cyclone-rated for high wind regions including Wind Region D. They withstand extreme temperatures (from -30°C to +70°C), with durable Armourtex® fabric offering up to 20 years of UV protection.
“The new facility has been a game-changer. It has made working conditions safe and comfortable, and we’ve seen a significant increase in staff satisfaction and productivity.” – Kane Goldsworthy, Operations Manager at Tyrecycle
Bonus: Translucent fabric options reduce internal temperatures and improve energy efficiency, cutting down on artificial lighting and cooling.
3. Need for Adaptable Infrastructure
The Challenge
Operational demands shift rapidly with the arrival of new machinery, changes in site layout, updated workflows or revised project scopes. Fixed infrastructure struggles to adapt, and modifying traditional buildings is often expensive, time-consuming and weighed down by red tape.
For FIFO or short-term projects, infrastructure must be agile enough to move, reconfigure or scale without delays.
The DomeShelter™ Solution
DomeShelter™ Structures can be custom-engineered to suit unique needs and workflows. They can be relocated, reoriented or repurposed as operations expand, locations shift or the need for your infrastructure changes.
“They’re continually adaptable with your business and can suit your needs wherever you are”. – Craig Bridgman, North West Quarries
Case in Point
When Equitorial Launch Australia (ELA), Australia’s first commercial space port, lost it’s site tender in Arnhem Land, they needed to relocate across the gulf to far north Queensland. Because of our DomeShelter™ Solution, they could.
Read the full article here.
4. Meeting Environmental and Sustainability Requirements
The Challenge
Mining sites face growing pressure to meet strict environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. Operations such as washdown and refuel bays pose a high risk for fuel spills, chemical runoff and groundwater contamination.
Temporary projects or FIFO setups also require infrastructure that can be removed without leaving a lasting environmental footprint. Traditional construction methods, particularly those involving concrete or excavation, make that difficult.
As scrutiny intensifies across the mining and industrial sectors, companies must demonstrate genuine efforts to reduce their impact and protect the surrounding environment.
The DomeShelter™ Solution
Our DomeShelter™ Structures are modular and relocatable, and can be deployed without excavation, leaving minimal environmental impact once removed. We also use our patented Armourtex® fabrics, which are PVC-free and 100% recyclable.
Additionally, our tropical roofs, combined with custom gutter systems, can help to efficiently capture and manage rainwater runoff and minimise water waste.
Practical Results
- Mitigating contamination risks posed by fuel and chemical run-off
- Low-impact installations that avoid concrete or ground disturbance
- Reusable structures and recyclable materials that reduce waste and support sustainability goals
- Fewer emissions during installation compared to permanent structures, with less heavy machinery required
Case in Point
At Australia’s largest mining tyre recycling facility, Tyrecycle, we engineered a DomeShelter™ Solution to align with their sustainability goals that added real value to their operations, not just a tick in the ESG box.
Read the full case study here.
5. Protecting Budgets, Schedules & Lifespan
The Challenge
Mining projects often face tight budgets, unpredictable approval processes, and delayed schedules. Traditional construction methods contribute to cost overruns, project delays, and the risk of mid-project repairs due to poor lifecycle planning. Early-stage projects also face higher investment risks with traditional infrastructure.
The DomeShelter™ Solution
We prioritise fast response times, clear communication, and local manufacturing to reduce lead times and keep projects on track. Our ready-to-deploy solutions ensure that budget approvals and procurement processes remain agile to prevent delays. Our proactive approach provides timely updates and guidance to avoid disruption.
As part of our long-term customer care, we offer a Shelter Inspections & Audits (SIA) service, which identifies early signs of wear or installation issues. This helps extend the lifespan of your shelter, ensures compliance with industry standards (including DMIRS), and mitigates preventable failure, or unnecessary and costly repairs down the track.
Practical Results
- Faster deployment with lead times measured in weeks, not months
- Responsive and clear communication to keep projects on schedule
- Reduced reliance on subcontractors through guided installation
- No compromise on safety or compliance, even on tight schedules
“Great team, always responsive and very professional. Delivery was faster than expected, no hidden costs, good quality product and engineering drawings and documentation was very clear. I strongly recommend them for all your DomeShelter needs” – C. Vermet, Fortescue
Built for Harsh Environments. Backed by Proven Experience.
DomeShelter™ Structures are used by major mining and industrial operators including Rio Tinto, FMG, BHP and Chevron. Our shelters are engineered to solve the most common infrastructure challenges on-site, without compromising on safety, durability or flexibility.
If you are managing remote projects, upgrading operations or planning your next shutdown campaign, we can deliver infrastructure that works — from day one through to decommission.
