How Duracom Pty Ltd Leveraged ISO 45001 to Create Safer Worksites and Win More Contracts
Introduction
In the high-risk world of civil works and construction, safety is more than compliance — it’s a business-critical requirement. Increasingly, ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems) is demanded by government clients and tier-1 builders as proof that contractors can manage risks and protect workers.
Duracom Pty Ltd, a civil works company in New South Wales, recognised the need to strengthen its safety management system to meet these standards and remain competitive in tenders. With the support of Optimax Consultancy, led by Anas Alwahwah (Lead Consultant) and Sam Molla (ISO Consultant), Duracom achieved ISO 45001 certification, improving safety performance and unlocking new contract opportunities.
The Challenge
Duracom faced safety and compliance challenges common in the construction sector:
- Limited formal documentation of safety processes, despite strong on-site practices.
- Difficulty demonstrating compliance during tender submissions.
- Rising client expectations for third-party certification as a prequalification requirement.
- A goal to win larger contracts where ISO 45001 is often mandatory.
Without ISO 45001 certification, Duracom risked being excluded from tenders and contracts where workplace safety standards are non-negotiable.
Our Approach
The Optimax team, with Anas Alwahwah and Sam Molla leading the project, applied a practical and structured approach to certification:
- Gap Analysis
- Benchmarked Duracom’s existing WHS practices against ISO 45001 standards.
- Identified areas requiring documentation and formalisation.
- System Development
- Created policies and procedures tailored to civil works and construction operations.
- Developed risk registers, toolbox templates, and incident reporting frameworks.
- Engagement & Training
- Conducted workshops and safety meetings with supervisors and crews.
- Ensured buy-in from site teams to embed a culture of safety.
- Internal Audit & Management Review
- Simulated certification audit conditions to identify and close gaps.
- Facilitated a leadership-led review of safety objectives and performance.
- Certification Support
- Guided Duracom through the external audit process.
- Provided hands-on support with evidence preparation and auditor responses.
The Outcome
Duracom achieved tangible results from the certification project:
- ISO 45001 Certification: Successfully certified by a recognised body.
- Tender Readiness: Certification strengthened Duracom’s position in government and tier-1 tender evaluations.
- Improved Safety Systems: Formalised reporting and risk management processes enhanced workplace safety outcomes.
- Reputation Boost: Positioned as a proactive, compliant contractor committed to worker wellbeing.
Key Takeaways for SMEs
This case study highlights key lessons for SMEs in construction:
- ISO 45001 is more than a certificate — it demonstrates genuine commitment to workplace safety.
- Certification is a differentiator — prequalification and tender scoring increasingly reward certified contractors.
- Expert consultants accelerate success — with the leadership of Anas Alwahwah and the expertise of Sam Molla, SMEs can achieve certification efficiently and confidently.
Call-to-Action
At Optimax Consultancy, we help construction and civil works companies like Duracom turn strong safety practices into ISO 45001 certification that wins contracts.
👉 If your business needs ISO certification to improve safety and unlock government contracts, we can help.
Book your free consultation with Optimax Consultancy today.
(02) 9188 7767
info@optimaxconsultancy.com.au
