The Operations Control Centre (OCC) is the centralised intelligence centre within TasWater, using real-time data and system automation to manage and control the network across the state.
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Located in Devonport, a team of 12 highly trained and experienced staff work a combination of continuous shift and day work 24/7, 365 days a year.
The OCC provides proactive monitoring and control, outage troubleshooting and management, dispatching crews to carry out repairs and assessing how TasWater’s assets are performing.
When managing the state’s water and sewage, there are a lot of variables to consider including the weather, power outages, and demand on the system, which can all impact infrastructure, staff and the customer.
The OCC monitors a range of data systems as well as weather, power, communications, the news and social media to ensure TasWater operates efficiently.
“When monitoring weather events we first look for the infrastructure that could be impacted within our water and sewerage systems,” Operations Control Centre manager Kevin Douglas said.
“We can gauge how much rain we are going to receive in a certain period, so we can make sure that our pumps are fully operational and prepared for heavier than usual loads on our systems.
“Monitoring also allows us to keep our staff safe at all times but especially when weather conditions such as frost, strong winds or bushfires are present.”
In a move to be able to control assets remotely, TasWater has invested in a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) control system.
A unique installation for Tasmania, this contemporary asset management system allows TasWater to operate an integrated operations program efficiently and at reduced operating expense.
“This means we will be able to operate valves and pumps to maintain reservoir levels within water networks in the event of a shutdown of a water treatment plant, ultimately maintaining the supply of water to customers,” Kevin said.
“For example in the water quality space we have critical control points that let us know early to take action to ensure customers are always receiving quality water.
“We are a customer-centric business and the OCC works for customers.
“Our goal is for the customer not to ring at all – if the customers don’t ring it means we have no problems.”
For more information about TasWater and their operations see: www.taswater.com.au.
A day in the life of an OCC operator
While Tasmanians go about their daily lives, TasWater’s Operations Control Centre (OCC) operators are busy making sure water flows and sewage is taken away 24/7/365.
One of those operators is Dave Roberts. Dave is one of almost a dozen staff who man the OCC, watching a range of data systems to make sure everything is working as it should.
And when something does malfunction, Dave springs into action to investigate, resolving something remotely from the OCC or coordinating a crew to get the issue fixed quickly.
“I get a great sense of satisfaction helping the public and the crew who are doing the hard work in the field,” Dave said.
“It’s an interesting role and one of the few that covers the whole state so we’re able to have a wholistic view rather than just what’s in your immediate patch and can direct services to where they need to be.“
Dave has a background in emergency management and has worked in the OCC since it began.
“It’s a very dynamic team and role and we have a broad mix of skills and knowledge we share to help the public and provide a worthwhile service,” he said.