A.S.James has proudly achieved over 50 years of continuous NATA accreditation in geotechnical laboratory testing – a milestone that reflects half a century of commitment to quality, reliability, and technical excellence. Since 3 August 1971, the geotechnical and environmental engineering organisation has been a trusted name in the geotechnical engineering industry, supporting critical infrastructure, construction, and engineering projects across Australia.
“This achievement is a testament to the passion and professionalism of our laboratory and field teams, past and present,” said A.S.James Director, Daniel Gunn. “For over five decades, we’ve held ourselves to the highest standards, delivering trusted results that help build the communities we live in.”
The Clayton South laboratory holds the distinction of maintaining over 50 years of continuous NATA accreditation, while its Ballarat laboratory proudly marked 30 years of accreditation, reflecting long-standing excellence across multiple locations.
From humble beginnings to industry leader
A.S.James established its first NATA registered laboratory in a small kitchen at the back of a terrace house in South Melbourne.
The purpose of this early facility was to support its engineering consultancy operations, which initially focused on triaxial and consolidation testing. Compaction testing was conducted using sand pour methods for density testing, alongside Atterberg limit testing and particle size distribution analysis.
Photos of A.S.James’ early equipment.
At the time, it had one laboratory manager – who also did about everything else. The laboratory’s operating manual was also only five pages long.
The laboratory began to grow slowly, employing just one additional staff member and then one more. The latter had established Geelong’s first NATA registered laboratory, again in a modest kitchen setup.
A major turning point came when VicRoads privatised road construction testing. A.S.James was appointed as the first private laboratory to carry out a VicRoads contract for earthworks testing on the Kyneton Bypass.
This opportunity, combined with the advent of nuclear density testing and robust engineering input, propelled the company into the compliance testing arena for major infrastructure projects.
When compliance requirements became increasingly burdensome on government projects, A.S.James realigned its focus toward private earthworks testing for developers and builders. During this era, the laboratory management team helped maintain the company’s dual focus on engineering and testing services.
Expanding capability and national presence
As the business evolved, so did its testing capabilities. A.S.James became NATA-accredited for a broader range of tests, including permeability, dispersion, and CBR, and expanded its laboratory network to South Australia and Ballarat.
The introduction of Australian Standard 3798 for earthworks provided new opportunities, which the company seized by offering a complete service – from site investigation and engineering advice to laboratory testing and compliance reporting.
Today, A.S.James offers an extensive range of NATA-accredited geotechnical engineering services.
“Maintaining accreditation for 50 years isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s a reflection of our team’s ongoing dedication to precision, integrity, and continual improvement,” said Clayton South Laboratory Manager, Steve Bailey.
The value of accreditation and the road ahead
For A.S.James, NATA accreditation has always meant more than compliance – it has been a platform for credibility, trust, and technical excellence. It has enabled the company to work with top-tier contractors, and developers on high-impact infrastructure projects.
Accreditation has also reinforced internal culture: encouraging rigorous quality systems, staff training, and investment in innovation, and always working closely with its engineering staff in achieving outcomes.
A.S.James attributes its success to the people behind the scenes – technicians, engineers, quality managers, and field staff – who have helped the company grow while upholding its values.
As the industry moves toward data-driven engineering, sustainability, and advanced testing techniques, A.S.James remains focused on delivering results that ensure the success and safety of future developments.
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