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For over 15 years, Nova Portable has been helping a major Australian recycling company protect its workers from tough weather conditions. These workers spend long hours sorting recyclable materials on conveyor belts, and traditional building solutions just weren’t cutting it.
From sweltering heat to pouring rain, the operators needed real shelter without interrupting the belt’s movement. Nova Portable stepped in with a fresh idea: Picking huts that fit neatly around the conveyor belt, giving operators a safer, more comfortable place to work.
This leading recycler was facing a serious problem. Their conveyor belts sit outdoors or in semi-covered areas, meaning operators were constantly exposed to extreme heat, cold, and dust. They tried various temporary shelters, but none accommodated the belt’s path without major compromises. Each facility also had its own layout, making a simple, one-size-fits-all approach impossible. On top of that, building a permanent structure around each belt was too costly, time-consuming, and lacked the flexibility the company needed.
Nova Portable offers modular solutions that are easy to install and adapt, which was exactly what the client required. By designing huts around the conveyor belts instead of forcing the belts to adapt to the structure, the company could keep operators shielded from the elements. Removable panels in the huts make it simple to install or remove the conveyor belt when needed. This not only keeps the belt running smoothly but also gives workers a controlled environment where they can stay warm, dry, and safe from flying debris.
Nova Portable started by getting to know the client’s recycling process inside and out. Draftsman/engineer John Challis led the design efforts, working closely with the recycler’s own engineering team to make sure everything fit together perfectly. They accounted for the belt’s speed, size, and even its heat output. Once everyone confirmed the design met strict Australian building standards, Nova Portable began manufacturing the huts. Each piece is crafted off-site, making on-site assembly much quicker. On installation day, a portion of the hut is removed so the conveyor can slide in. Then it’s sealed up, creating a completely enclosed workspace.
Figuring out how to let a conveyor belt pass right through a portable building was no small feat. However, solid planning and close teamwork between Nova Portable and the recycler’s engineers prevented hiccups. Any challenges, like making sure the huts had the right ventilation or fit unique site layouts, were addressed long before hitting the ground. As a result, everything ran smoothly once installation began, and the same design has since been rolled out to numerous locations nationwide
Originally, operators stood fully exposed to the weather. This meant they needed frequent breaks, which seriously reduced productivity. After Nova Portable set up these specialised picking huts, the workers could stay indoors, away from scorching temperatures or pouring rain. Efficiency skyrocketed since the conveyor belt never had to stop, and employees felt more comfortable on the job. This dramatic improvement in day-to-day operations shows the true impact of the huts’ design.
“Our operators were dealing with weather extremes every day, and it was causing real issues for both staff morale and output. Nova Portable came up with a creative solution that enclosed the belt while keeping everything running at full capacity. Their team worked closely with our own engineers to design huts that fit perfectly at each plant. We’ve seen a huge boost in productivity and a happier workforce overall.”
– Representative, Major Australian Recycling Company
Nova Portable has been building these picking huts for more than 15 years, learning and improving every time a new facility comes online. This long-term partnership speaks volumes about their ability to adapt, problem-solve, and consistently deliver quality. Each project starts with a deep dive into the client’s challenges and ends with a custom-designed modular building that meets practical needs without sacrificing comfort or safety. Whether it’s a unique conveyor-belt hut or a straightforward portable office, Nova Portable handles the entire process, from initial drawings to final installation.
Their focus on teamwork, dedication to safety, and knack for finding innovative ways to meet clients’ goals have made them a top choice for organisations across Australia. For any business that wants the convenience of a portable building without the usual trade-offs, Nova Portable is the clear pick. Contact them today to learn more.
