FAQs

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) which may help answer some of your questions relating to your project. What’s more, find out who we are and what we stand for at PHS. If there is something we have missed and you would like to know more please get in contact with us!

Hydrographic surveying, also known as hydrography, is the science of the measurement and description of features of the seabed that affect maritime navigation, marine construction, dredging, oil exploration and drilling, pipeline damage assessment and related disciplines.

A hydrographic surveyor will collect and record information about the physical features of water bodies. Depending on the requirements of the marine project, a hydrographic surveyor will measure the water depth and search for all types of submerged features, including ridges, banks, wrecks, which may rise from the seabed of those water bodies. A hydrographic surveyor may also gather information on the water levels, tides, currents, and other physical parameters of water bodies, including the salinity and temperature of the water.

Data is collected through various means, such as multibeam echo sounders, and is used for the production of nautical charts, tidal predictions, and volume calculations, or used for other maritime practices, for example, dredging.

Hydrography is an essential activity to an island nation such as Australia. It underpins maritime trade and is essential to support coastal infrastructure, resource exploration and export, environmental awareness, and coastal zone management.

Meteorological and oceanographic (metocean) processes should be understood before design and construction of any port, marina, or offshore structure. Without clear knowledge of the prevailing metocean conditions (wind, wave, current and tide) the likelihood of project design and engineering failure is likely, if not certain.

We produce high-quality environmental data and provide clients with expert interpretation. Upholding our stringent quality assurance principles ensures we meet the rigorous requirements of the offshore and maritime industries as well as regulatory, defence and government agencies.

  • Surveys for Coastal Zone and Infrastructure Management
  • Surveys for Dredging and Bed Levelling
  • Surveys for Environment and Habitat Mapping
  • Metocean Services
  • Surveys for Navigation Safety
  • Surveys for Object Detection and Debris Clearance
  • Availability of our survey vessel, PHS Zephyr
  • Surveys for Pipeline, Cable and Subsea Infrastructure
  • Surveys for Port and Harbour.

We invite you to contact PHS and seek advice from our experienced and certified professionals. We have a proven record of client satisfaction. We are passionate about our work and are happy to discuss all aspects of your coastal or marine infrastructure project.

For more information, please contact us on 08 7120 2211 or email info@precisionhydrographic.com.au

Our operations team includes six hydrographic surveyors who are Certified Professional Hydrographic Surveyor Level 1 (CPHS1). They are supported by a further three Certified Professional Hydrographic Surveyor Level 2 (CPHS2), and five hydrographic surveyors, GIS and metocean professionals. Our operations team also includes a Vessel Coordinator/Skipper, Asset Coordinator, and a QHSE Manager to ensure seamless operations from start to finish.

Our team is experienced in conducting hydrographic surveying operations and is available to provide installation, operation, and data processing assistance. We can provide expertise in measuring the environmental factors that affect hydrographic surveys and operations in the marine environment.

We are proud of our team of outstanding individuals, who are full time ‘in-house’ employees.

Specialist certification in hydrography is the official recognition that an individual possesses the necessary knowledge to perform hydrographic surveying tasks along with the demonstrated ability to apply that knowledge across various hydrographic disciplines.

All projects undertaken by PHS are overseen by a Certified Professional Hydrographic Surveyor Level 1 (CPHS1)/Project Manager. This provides our clients with complete confidence in our thorough understanding of the technical aspects of hydrographic surveys, as well as our extensive experience in leading and managing project teams and maintaining quality assurance principles.

Certified Professional Hydrographic Surveyor Level 1 (CPHS1) is the highest level of professional hydrographic surveying certification attainable. It is the benchmark for quality.

PHS operate from offices in Adelaide, Karratha and Port Hedland.

Our head office is located at 10 Ragless Street, St Marys, Adelaide. Please contact us on 08 7120 2211 or info@precisionhydrographic.com.au.

PHS is a wholly Australian owned and operated company. Our mission is to provide all stakeholders with a greater appreciation and understanding of the marine environments in which they operate. This is achieved through a personalised service to our clients every day.

All PHS projects are overseen by a Certified Professional Level 1 Hydrographic Surveyor (CPHS1)/Project Manager. This provides our clients with complete confidence in our thorough understanding of the technical and practical aspects of hydrographic surveys, as well as our extensive experience in leading and managing project teams and maintaining quality assurance principles.

We invest in our people and technology to grow and continually enhance our hydrographic and metocean services. Our people have been key to our ongoing success and repeat clientele. Every one of our surveyors thoroughly understands the intricacies of the equipment they use. They are meticulous in ensuring that all data input is accurate. Our team carefully reviews the data output before they pass it to the next stage in the project’s lifecycle.

The values our team uphold are leadership, integrity, and dedication. These values have become deeply woven and guide every aspect of our business from employee conduct to company decision making.

PHS is continuously striving for innovation in data capture techniques, and only uses the highest quality instruments and platforms. Technologies and best practices are evolving and progressing in our industry, making it crucial for both our graduates and experienced professionals to continue developing their skills and honing their knowledge, both through our internal and external training programs.

The safety of our team, subcontractors and all personnel who work with or near us is of paramount importance. We have a comprehensive library of policies, procedures and work instructions dedicated to maintaining a safe and injury-free workplace. The standards we keep ensure we maintain our professional reputation.

PHS values a healthy and safe work environment and promotes a ‘Zero Harm’ attitude. PHS is committed to providing a high standard of Health and Safety performance that is based on a continual improvement process and best practice principles with the objective of achieving a reduction or elimination of injuries and illnesses. Since 2015, when data recording commenced, PHS has achieved more than 200,000 injury-free hours, a record to be proud of.

ISO 9001:2015 is an international quality management standard which demonstrates our ability to consistently provide services which meet both client and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. The aim of a quality management system is to enhance client satisfaction through the effective application of the system, including processes for improvement of the system and the assurance of conformity.

PHS is ISO-9001:2015 Quality Management System and ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems accredited, demonstrating the PHS creed to strive for continual improvement.

PHS is passionate about inspiring the next generation of surveying professionals. We encourage and support students by offering several work experience, placement, or internship opportunities throughout the year.

Undertaking a placement at PHS means you will put your academic studies into practice, develop essential skills like teamwork and problem-solving, and learn where a career in hydrography could take you.

PHS have built relationships with various educational institutions, including TafeSA and UniSA, and welcome enquiries from students or graduates regarding their career pathway into the industry. All enquires are to be directed to the Brand and Culture Manager, Rebecca Mousley – email

We are a thriving family business. We know we can offer the following benefits to our clients as a wholly Australian owned and operated business.

  • Australian owned and operated
  • Employing Australians
  • Profits remain in Australia
  • Commitment and unified leadership
  • Stability, trust and authenticity
  • Flexibility and versatility
  • Vision and long-term goals

Please contact Carolyn Hewitt for all administration and account information queries.

All positions will be advertised on our PHS LinkedIn page and via Seek.

Contact us to understand how PHS can elevate your understanding and connection with the marine environment.