Managing Risks in Construction Work

MANAGING RISKS IN
CONSTRUCTION WORK
Draft
Code of Practice
MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

WORK AUSTRALIA MEMBERS MEETING 6
DRAFT CODE OF PRACTICE
SAFE
SEPTEMBER 2011
Table of Contents
FOREWORD.................................................................................................................................... 4
SCOPE AND APPLICATION...........................................................................................................4
1.
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 What is construction work? 5
1.2 Who has duties relating to construction work?
7
1.3 What is involved in managing risks relating to construction work? 10
2.
MANAGING RISKS WITH CONSTRUCTION WORK............................................................12

2.1 Identify the hazards 12
2.2 Assess the risks
12
2.3 Control the risks
13
2.4 Review control measures
14
3.
SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENTS.................................................................................16

3.1 What is a safe work method statement?
16
3.2 Preparing a safe work method statement
17
3.3 Implementing a safe work method statement
18
3.4 Reviewing a safe work method statement 19
4.
WHS MANAGEMENT PLANS................................................................................................21

4.1 What is a WHS management plan? 21
4.2 Preparing a WHS management plan 21
4.3 Implementing the WHS management plan 21
4.4 Reviewing and revising a WHS management plan 22
5.
LICENCES.............................................................................................................................. 23
5.1 High risk work 23
5.2 Other licences 23
6.
INFORMATION, TRAINING, INSTRUCTION AND SUPERVISION........................................25

6.1 General construction induction training
25
6.2 Workplace specific training 26
6.3 Other training 26
6.4 Supervision 27
7.
FACILITIES AND THE WORK ENVIRONMENT.....................................................................28

7.1 Facilities at a construction workplace28
7.2 The work environment
29
7.3 Emergency plan
31
8.
CONTROLLING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK............................................................32

8.1 Falls and falling objects
32
8.2 Traffic management 37
8.3 Essential services
38
8.4 Hazardous manual tasks
39
8.5 Hazardous chemicals 40
8.6 Asbestos
44
8.7 Confined spaces
46
8.8 Public access and workplace security
47
8.9 Electricity
48
8.10Plant 48
8.11Noise 50
8.12Steel construction
51

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8.13Concrete placing
8.14Safety signage
52
53
APPENDIX A DEFINITIONS.......................................................................................................54
APPENDIX B TECHNICAL STANDARDS AND OTHER REFERENCES...................................57
APPENDIX C EXAMPLES OF THE INTERACTION BETWEEN DUTY HOLDERS...................59
APPENDIX D SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT TEMPLATE.............................................61
APPENDIX E SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT EXAMPLE...............................................63
APPENDIX F HIGH RISK CONSTRUCTION WORK..................................................................66
APPENDIX G WHS MANAGEMENT PLAN CONTENT.............................................................72
APPENDIX H EXAMPLES OF CONSTRUCTION WORKPLACE FACILITIES..........................75

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FOREWORD
This Code of Practice for managing risks in construction work is an approved code of practice
under section 274 of the Work Health and Safety Act (the WHS Act).
An approved code of practice is a practical guide to achieving the standards of health, safety and
welfare required under the WHS Act and the Work Health and Safety Regulations (the WHS
Regulations).
A code of practice applies to anyone who has a duty of care in the circumstances described in the
code. In most cases, following an approved code of practice would achieve compliance with the
health and safety duties in the WHS Act, in relation to the subject matter of the code. Like
regulations, codes of practice deal with particular issues and do not cover all hazards or risks
which may arise. The health and safety duties require duty holders to consider all risks associated
with work, not only those for which regulations and codes of practice exist.
Codes of practice are admissible in court proceedings under the WHS Act and Regulations. Courts
may regard a code of practice as evidence of what is known about a hazard, risk or control and
may rely on the code in determining what is reasonably practicable in the circumstances to which
the code relates.
Compliance with the WHS Act and Regulations may be achieved by following another method,
such as a technical or an industry standard, if it provides an equivalent or higher standard of work
health and safety than the code.
An inspector may refer to an approved code of practice when issuing an improvement or
prohibition notice.
This Code of Practice has been developed by Safe Work Australia as a model code of practice
under the Council of Australian Governments Inter-Governmental Agreement for Regulatory and
Operational Reform in Occupational Health and Safety for adoption by the Commonwealth, state
and territory governments.
A draft of this Code of Practice was released for public consultation on 26 September 2011 and
was endorsed by the Select Council on Workplace Relations on [to be completed].
SCOPE AND APPLICATION

This Code provides practical guidance to persons conducting a business or undertaking on how to
manage risks at a workplace where construction work, including high risk construction work) is
being carried out or is likely to be carried out. .
A person conducting a business or undertaking may be a person who commissions construction
work, a designer, a principal contractor, contractor, subcontractor or someone who is self-employed
at a construction workplace.
How to use this code of practice
In providing guidance, the word should is used in this Code to indicate a recommended course of
action, while may is used to indicate an optional course of action.
This Code also includes various references to provisions of the WHS Act and Regulations which
set out the legal requirements. These references are not exhaustive. The words must, requires or
mandatory indicate that a legal requirement exists and must be complied with.

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1.
1.1
INTRODUCTION
What is construction work?
The WHS Regulations define construction work as any work carried out in connection with the
construction, alteration, conversion, fitting-out, commissioning, renovation, repair, maintenance,
refurbishment, demolition, decommissioning or dismantling of a structure.
Construction work includes:
any installation and testing carried out in connection with an activity referred to in the above
definition
the removal from the workplace of any product or waste resulting from demolition
the prefabrication or testing of elements, at a place specifically established for the
construction work, for use in construction work
the assembly of prefabricated elements to form a structure or the disassembly of
prefabricated elements forming part of a structure
the installation, testing or maintenance of an essential service in relation to any structure
any work connected with an excavation
any work connected with any preparatory work or site preparation (including landscaping as
part of site preparation) carried out in connection with an activity referred to in the above
definition, and
an activity referred to in the above definition that is carried out on, under or near water,
including work on buoys and obstructions to navigation.
Construction work does not include:
the manufacture of plant
the prefabrication of elements, other than at a place specifically established for the
construction work, for example, making precast concrete panels or roof trusses at a
workshop of a person conducting a business or undertaking who is not involved in the
construction work
the construction or assembly of a structure that once constructed or assembled is intended
to be transported to another place, for example mobile or pre-fabricated homes
testing, maintenance or repair work of a minor nature carried out in connection with a
structure, for example:
o undertaking regular inspections of a buildings fire equipment or lifts
o replacing or repairing a sprinkler or smoke-detector
o replacing carpet in an office
o servicing or minor repair of an air-conditioning system or solar panel unit, or
o regular testing and repair of pressure piping, or
mining or the exploration for or extraction of minerals, for example:
o extracting sand or rock from a quarry or an open-cut mine, or
o removing overburden at an open-cut mine.
What is a structure?
A structure is defined under the WHS Act as anything that is constructed, whether fixed or
moveable, temporary or permanent, and includes:
buildings, masts, towers, framework, pipelines, transport infrastructure and underground
works (shafts or tunnels)
any component of a structure, and
part of a structure.

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Examples of a structure include:

a roadway or pathway
a ship or submarine
foundations, earth retention works and other earthworks, including river works and sea
defence works
formwork, falsework or any other structure designed or used to provide support, access or
containment during construction work
an airfield
a dock, harbour, channel, bridge, viaduct, lagoon or dam, and
a sewer or sewerage or drainage works
The above definition does not apply to plant unless:
the plant is:
o a ship or submarine
o a pipe or pipeline
o an underground tank
o designed or used to provide support, access or containment during work in
connection with construction work
work on the plant relates to work that is carried out in connection with construction work, or
the plant is fixed plant on which outage work or overhaul work that involves or may involve work
being carried out by 5 or more persons conducting businesses or undertakings at any point in time,
What is high risk construction work?
The WHS Regulations define high risk construction work as construction work that:
involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres
is carried out on a telecommunication tower
involves demolition of an element of a structure that is load-bearing or otherwise related to
the physical integrity of the structure
involves, or is likely to involve, the disturbance of asbestos
involves structural alterations or repairs that require temporary support to prevent collapse
is carried out in or near a confined space
is carried out in or near a shaft or trench with an excavated depth greater than 1.5 metres,
or a tunnel
involves the use of explosives
is carried out on or near pressurised gas distribution mains or piping
is carried out on or near chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines
is carried out on or near energised electrical installations or services
is carried out in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere
involves tilt-up or precast concrete
is carried out on, in or adjacent to a road, railway, shipping lane or other traffic corridor that
is in use by traffic other than pedestrians
is carried out at a workplace in which there is any movement of powered mobile plant
is carried out in an area in which there are artificial extremes of temperature
is carried out in or near water or other liquid that involves a risk of drowning, or
involves diving work.
There are specific duties for high risk construction work, for example, a safe work method
statement must be prepared. These duties are outlined in Chapter 3 of this Code.
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What is a construction project?

The WHS Regulations define a construction project as a project that involves construction work
where the cost of the construction work is $250,000 or more.
Valuing construction work
The cost of construction work can be determined by the contract price for carrying out the work and
would include:
project management costs associated with the work
the costs of fittings and furnishings, including any refitting or refurbishing, associated with
the work (except where the work involves an enlargement, expansion or intensification of a
current use of land), and
any taxes, levies or charges (other than GST) paid or payable in connection with the work
by or under any law.
The cost of the construction work would not include:
the cost of the land on which the development is to be carried out
the costs associated with marketing or financing the development (including interest on any
loans), and
the costs associated with legal work carried out or to be carried out in connection with the
development.
A construction project covers all the activities involved in the construction work.
1.2
Who has duties relating to construction work?
Person conducting a business or undertaking

A person conducting a business or undertaking has the primary duty under the WHS Act to ensure,
so far as is reasonably practicable, that workers and other persons are not exposed to health and
safety risks arising from the business or undertaking.
The WHS Regulations also require a person conducting a business or undertaking to carry out
specific duties for high risk construction work which include:
before the work commences, ensuring a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for the
proposed work is prepared, or that it has already been prepared by another person, in
accordance with the WHS Regulations
putting in place arrangements to ensure that work is carried out in accordance with the
SWMS
stopping the work immediately (or as soon as it is safe to do so) if it is not carried out in
accordance with the SWMS and only resumed as per the details in the SWMS
if the work is in connection with a construction project, a SWMS must be given to the
principal contractor before the work commences
ensuring the SWMS is reviewed and as necessary revised if relevant control measures are
revised
ensuring the SWMS is kept and is readily available for inspection as specified in the WHS
Regulations, and
ensuring a copy of the SWMS is made available to any worker engaged by the person
conducting a business or undertaking to carry out high risk construction work.
Information on preparing SWMS can be found in Chapter 3 and Appendices E & F of this Code.
A person with management or control of a workplace at which construction work

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A person with management or control of a workplace at which construction work is being carried
out must ensure so far as is reasonably practicable that the workplace is secure from unauthorised
access and must have regard to matters including:
risks to health and safety arising from unauthorised access to the workplace
the likelihood of unauthorised access occurring, and
the extent that where unauthorised access to the workplace cannot be prevented how to
isolate hazards within the workplace.
A person conducting a business or undertaking who commissions construction work or
construction project
A person conducting a business or undertaking who commissions construction work or a
construction project is often referred to as the client.
There may also be other persons who represent a client, for example, project managers,
construction managers, architects or engineers, who may coordinate the commissioning work on
the clients behalf. A registered owner/builder is also a person conducting a business or
undertaking who commissions construction work.
The WHS Regulations require the person conducting a business or undertaking who commissions
construction work to:
consult with the designer, so far as is reasonably practicable, to ensure that risks to health
and safety arising from the design are eliminated or minimised and give the designer any
information in relation to the hazards and risks at the workplace where the construction
work is carried out
take all reasonable steps to obtain a copy of a designers safety report if another person
commissioned the design, and
if the construction work is a construction project, give the principal contractor any
information in relation to hazards and risks at or in the vicinity of the workplace where the
construction work is to be carried out, including a copy of any safety report provided by or
obtained from a designer.
Designer
A designer is a person conducting a business or undertaking that designs a structure (or plant or
substance) that is to be used, or could reasonably be expected to be used, as or at a workplace.
There may be multiple designers involved in the design of a structure and have the same duties,
for example, architects, civil engineers, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, structural
engineers and hydraulic engineers.
The WHS Regulations require the designer to:
ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the structure is designed to be without risks to
the health and safety of persons in relation to the manufacture, assembly, construction or
use of the structure or the proper demolition or disposal of the structure, and
give the person who commissioned the design a written (safety) report that specifies the
hazards relating to the design of the structure that the designer is aware of that:
o create a risk to health or safety of persons who are to carry out any construction
work on the structure or part, and
o are associated only with the particular design and not with other designs of the
same type of structure.
Principal contractor

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Where a construction project exists, a principal contractor must be identified. A construction project
can only have one principal contractor and that person is responsible for the construction work at
all times until the work is completed. The WHS Regulations define a principal contractor as:
the person conducting a business or undertaking that commissions the construction project
(the client), or
a person conducting a business or undertaking that is engaged by the client to be the
principal contractor and is authorised to have management or control of the workplace.
A principal contractor can be a sole proprietor (for example, a self-employed builder), a
partnership, a trust or a company. In the case of a company, the company has the duties of the
principal contractor rather than the individual managers who are employed by the company. Unless
the client engages another party to be the principal contractor, they are the principal contractor.
If the owner of residential premises is an individual (that is, they are not a person conducting a
business or undertaking) who directly or indirectly engages a person conducting a business or
undertaking to carry out a construction project in relation to the premises, the person engaged is
the principal contractor if they have management or control of the workplace.
There are a number of duties the principal contractor has under the WHS Regulations. These are:
For WHS management plans, the principal contractor must:
o prepare a written WHS management plan for the workplace before work on the project
commences
o ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, that each person who is to carry out
construction on the project is made aware of the WHS management plan and their right
to inspect it before commencing work
o review and revise the WHS management plan to ensure it remains up-to-date
o ensure so far as is reasonably practicable, each person carrying out construction work
in connection with the project is made aware of any revision to the WHS management
plan, and
o ensure a copy of the WHS management plan for the project is kept until completion and
is made available as specified in the WHS Regulations.
For Safe work method statements, the principal contractor must:

o take all reasonable steps to obtain copies of SWMS relating to high risk construction
work before that work commences.
For workplace arrangements, the principal contractor must:

o put in place workplace arrangements to comply with the WHS Regulations for the
general working environment, provision of facilities, personal protective equipment, first
aid and emergency plans
o ensure that signs are installed that:
show the principal contractors name and telephone contact numbers
show the location of the project office (if any), and
are clearly visible from outside the workplace, or the work area of the workplace,
where the construction project is being undertaken, and
o manage risks to health and safety associated with:
storage, movement and disposal of construction materials and waste at the
workplace

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storage at the workplace of plant that is not in use

traffic in the vicinity of the workplace that may be affected by construction work
carried out in connection with the construction project, and
essential services at the workplace.
Contractor and subcontractor

A contractor may be engaged by an individual who is not conducting a business or undertaking, a
client, a project manager, a principal contractor, a designer, or another contractor.
A contractor is a person conducting a business or undertaking that is engaged to carry out
construction work. A subcontractor is a person conducting a business or undertaking engaged to
carry out construction work by a contractor or subcontractor.
Contractors and subcontractors have the duties of a person conducting a business or undertaking,
including for high risk construction work (see Chapter 3 of this Code).
Officers
Officers, such as company directors, have a duty to exercise due diligence to ensure that the
business or undertaking complies with their duties and obligations. This includes taking reasonable
steps to ensure that the business or undertaking has and uses appropriate resources and
processes to eliminate or minimise risks that arise from the construction work.
Workers
Workers have a duty to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and must not
adversely affect the health and safety of other persons. Workers must comply with any reasonable
instruction and cooperate with any reasonable policy or procedure relating to health and safety at
the workplace.
1.3
What is involved in managing risks relating to construction work?
In order to manage risk under the WHS Regulations, a duty holder must:
a) identify reasonably foreseeable hazards that could give rise to the risk
b) eliminate the risk so far as is reasonably practicable
c) if it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk minimise the risk so far as is reasonably
practicable by implementing control measures in accordance with the hierarchy of risk control
d) maintain the control measure so that it remains effective, and
e) review, and if necessary revise risk control measures so as to maintain, so far as is reasonably
practicable, a work environment that is without risks to health and safety.
This Code provides guidance on how to manage the risks associated with construction work by
following a systematic process that involves:
identifying hazards
if necessary, assessing the risks associated with these hazards
implementing risk control measures, and
maintaining and reviewing the effectiveness of risk control measures.
Chapter 2 of this Code provides more specific guidance on this process.
Guidance on the general risk management process is available in the Code of Practice: How to
Manage Work Health and Safety Risks.

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Consulting, cooperating, coordinating with other duty holders

The WHS Act requires that you consult, cooperate and coordinate activities with all other persons
who have a work health or safety duty in relation to the same matter, so far as is reasonably
practicable.
Example of the interaction between duty holders
The principal contractor engages a contractor for all demolition work associated with a construction
project. The contractor engages a subcontractor to carry out concrete cutting works as part of the
demolition process. As a person conducting a business or undertaking:
the principal contractor must ensure the health and safety of all persons from risks
associated with the construction project, including workers undertaking demolition and
concrete cutting work
the contractor must ensure the health and safety of all workers undertaking the demolition
and concrete cutting work, and
the concrete cutting subcontractor is responsible for the health and safety of all workers
undertaking concrete cutting work and passersby.
Consulting with workers
The WHS Act requires that you consult, so far as is reasonably practicable, with workers who carry
out work for you who are (or are likely to be) directly affected by a work health and safety matter.
If the workers are represented by a health and safety representative, the consultation must involve
that representative.
A person conducting a business or undertaking must consult with workers (including contractors
and subcontractors) and their health and safety representatives about health and safety matters.
By drawing on their experience, knowledge and ideas, hazards are more likely to be identified and
effective risk controls developed.
A principal contractor for a construction project must consult, so far as is reasonably practicable,
with all workers who are (or are likely to be) directly affected by a matter relating to work health or
safety.
In many cases, decisions about construction work and projects are made prior to engaging
workers, therefore, it may not be possible to consult with workers in these early stages. However, it
is important to consult with them as the work or project progresses.
In addition to health and safety representatives, workers can be consulted through:
general or workplace induction processes, for example, when specialist skills arrive on site
toolbox talks
participative risk assessment processes, and
one-off sessions or events called for a specific purpose.
Example of toolbox talks
Toolbox talks can be used to convey health and safety information to and receive feedback from
contractors, subcontractors and workers. Toolbox talks can also assist in raising awareness of how
the construction work will be conducted in a healthy and safe manner. When using toolbox talks it
is good practice to:
keep a written record of the topic covered, attendees and any feedback received
organise a program of toolbox talks to ensure workers are given sufficient opportunity to
provide input into how risks should be controlled, and

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monitor the effectiveness of toolbox talks through safety outcomes (for example, controls
implemented and near misses).
Specific guidance on consultation is available in the Code of Practice: Work Health and Safety
Consultation, Co-operation and Co-ordination.

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2.
MANAGING RISKS WITH CONSTRUCTION WORK
2.1
Identify the hazards
When identifying hazards, particular attention should be paid to hazards arising from:
the construction workplace itself, including its location, layout, condition and accessibility
any design relating to the construction work
working at heights
hazardous substances, including the handling, use, storage, and workplace transport or
disposal of hazardous substances
the presence of asbestos
systems of work
plant, including the transport, installation, erection, commissioning, use, repair,
maintenance, dismantling, storage or disposal of plant
manual handling, including the potential for occupational overuse injuries, and
the physical working environment, for example, the potential for electric shock, immersion
or engulfment, fire or explosion, slips, trips and falls, people being struck by moving plant,
objects or structures falling on people, exposure to noise, heat, cold, vibration, radiation,
static electricity or a contaminated atmosphere, and the presence of a confined space.
A person conducting a business or undertaking should also ensure there are effective procedures
in place to identify and record hazards:
before and during the installation, erection, commissioning or alteration of plant
before changes to systems of work are introduced or a significant change to the
construction workplace, or a part of it, is implemented
before hazardous substances are introduced, and
when new or additional occupational safety and health information from an authoritative
source becomes available - for example, national standards or codes of practice, guidance
material produced by a regulatory authority, industry codes of practice or information from
manufacturers, suppliers or designers.
2.2
Assess the risks
Assessing the associated risks will assist in determining:

what regulated duties apply
how severe a risk is
whether any existing control measures are effective
what action should be taken to control the risk
whether action or control measures are necessary, and
how urgently the action needs to be taken.
Assessing the risk includes considering things like:
the severity of any injury or illness that could occur, for example is it a small isolated hazard
that could result in a very minor injury or is it a significant hazard that could have wide
ranging and severe affects, and
the likelihood or chance that someone will suffer an illness or injury, for example, consider
the number of people exposed to the hazard.
A risk assessment is not necessary if the risk and how to control it is already known.

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2.3
Control the risks
The ways of controlling risks are ranked from the highest level of protection and reliability to the
lowest. This ranking is known as the hierarchy of risk control. You must always aim to eliminate a
hazard, which is the most effective control. If this is not reasonably practicable, you must minimise
the risk by:
Substitution
Isolation
Engineering controls
If risk remains, it must be minimised by implementing administrative controls, so far as is
reasonably practicable. Any remaining risk must be minimised with suitable personal protective
equipment.
Administrative control measures and personal protective equipment rely on human behaviour and
supervision, and when used on their own, tend to be least effective in minimising risks.
Eliminating the risk
This means removing the hazard or hazardous work practice from the workplace. This is the most
effective control measure and must always be considered before anything else. For example,
eliminate the risk of a fall from height by doing the work at ground level.
If elimination of the risk is not reasonably practicable, you must consider using substitution,
isolation or engineering risk controls, or a combination of these controls, to minimise the risk.
Minimising the risk
Substitution
Minimise the risk by substituting or replacing a hazard or hazardous work practice with a less
hazardous one. For example:
Substituting a manual task of carrying tools from one level to another with a material hoist
or craning material will minimise the risk of workers developing a musculoskeletal disorder.
Substituting a two part epoxy substance with a water based acrylic water proofing system
will minimise exposure to a hazardous substance.
Isolation
Minimise the risk by isolating or separating the hazard or hazardous work practice from people
involved in the work or other people at the workplace. For example, isolating a mobile plant work
zone from workers and/or the public with physical barriers will minimise the risk of contact
occurring between a person and the mobile plant.
Engineering Controls
Use an engineering control to minimise the risk if the physical characteristics of the plant, structure
or work area are hazardous. For example:
Benching, battering or shoring the sides of the excavation will minimise the risk of a person
being trapped and prevent the excavation from collapsing.
By enclosing an open cab excavator, for example, using a falling objects protection
structure (FOPS) will minimise the risk of an operator being struck by a falling object or
being crushed if the excavator rolls over.
Administrative Controls
These are work practices that minimise the risk, such as ensuring there is no unauthorised entry of
a person to a work area thus preventing them from being exposed to a particular hazard. For
example:

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Using a keep out sign and a person to secure an exclusions zone when dismantling
scaffolding may minimise the risk of people entering the work area and being struck by a
falling object.
Using a tag and lockout procedure at the entry point of a confined space will minimise the
risk of a person entering the confined space and losing consciousness or suffering
asphyxiation, injury or death due to the immediate effects of airborne contaminants or
oxygen deficiency.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)

PPE is the lowest order control measure in the hierarchy of controls and should only be considered
when other control measures are not practicable, or to increase protection from the hazard.
PPE relies on a persons behaviour and the proper fit and use of the PPE and does nothing to
change the hazard itself. It therefore requires thorough training and effective supervision to ensure
compliance and effectiveness. For example:
Provide workers with long sleeved shirts and trousers, wide brimmed hat (where hard hats
are required then it should be a hard hat brim or neck flap), sunglasses and sun screen to
minimise the exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Provide workers with ear plugs, ear muffs or other PPE when they are near or operating
noisy machinery and powered tools to minimise the exposure to excessive noise.
Combination of control measures
In many cases a combination of control measures may be implemented. For example, to control
the risk of persons working in the same area from being struck by mobile plant control measures
should include:
using traffic lights instead of a traffic controller to control traffic at road works (substitution)
replacing an item of mobile plant which has a restricted field of vision to one that has a
clear field of vision (substitution)
using zero tail swing excavators rather than conventional tail swing excavators
(substitution)
segregating the work processes through distance and time (isolation)
installing reversing cameras and audible warning devices activated when the vehicle is
reversing (engineering)
developing and implement a traffic management plan for any traffic control activities being
carried out (administrative), and
requiring all workers to wear high visibility reflective clothing or vests (PPE).
When selecting and implementing a combination of risk controls it is important to consider whether
any new risks might be introduced as a result and, if so, the combination of risk controls should be
reviewed.
There are a range of hazards and risks common to construction work, including noise, hazardous
manual tasks and hazardous chemicals. Further information on these common hazards and risk
controls is provided in Chapter 8, Appendix C and G of this Code.
2.4
Review control measures
Control measures must be reviewed regularly to make sure they remain effective. Controls can be
checked by using the same methods as the initial hazard identification process. Common methods
include workplace inspection, consultation, testing and analysing records and data.
Control measures must be reviewed (and revised if necessary):
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before any change is made to the way the construction work is carried out
before a new system of work is introduced
before the place where the work is being carried is changed
if a new hazard is identified or if new information about a hazard becomes available (for
example, an alert is published on a particular hazard)
if a notifiable incident occurs in relation to construction work
if a control measure does not control the risk, or
a request for a review is received from a health and safety representative.
When reviewing control measures, a SWMS and the WHS management plan must also be
reviewed and revised where necessary.

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3.
SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENTS
This Chapter only applies to high risk construction work.

A safe work method statement (SWMS) must be prepared for any and all high risk construction
work to be undertaken prior to the work commencing.
3.1
What is a safe work method statement?
A safe work method statement (SWMS) is a document that:

lists the types of high risk construction work being done
states the health and safety hazards and risks arising from that work
describes how the risks will be controlled, and
describes how the risk control measures will be put in place and maintained.
A SWMS must be clearly set out, easy to understand and readily accessible so the risk control
measures can be implemented and monitored.
A SWMS is not a work health and safety (WHS) management plan although a SWMS can form
part of a WHS management plan. A SWMS should not, for example, include workplace
management arrangements or describe general safety procedures or task procedures.
A SWMS should include the specific risk controls that must be implemented to manage the risks for
the proposed high risk construction work activity (for example, the need to complete a confined
space entry permit). Note that a SWMS must deal with the specific hazards and risks at the
workplace where the high risk construction work is being undertaken.
An example of a basic SWMS template that may be most suited to small to medium sized
businesses is included in Appendix E. Other SWMS formats can be used and larger organisations
may integrate SWMS requirements into their documented WHS management system. That is, as
long as there is a documented SWMS that meets the requirements of the WHS Regulations it can
be prepared in any suitable format.
Who is responsible for preparing SWMS?
All persons conducting a business or undertaking at the workplace must ensure a SWMS is
prepared for any high risk construction they propose to carry out. It must be prepared prior to the
high risk construction work commencing.
A person conducting a business or undertaking, in consultation with workers who will be directly
engaged in the high risk construction work, should prepare a SWMS as they are often best placed
to:
understand the work being carried out and the workers undertaking the work, and
ensure the SWMS is correctly implemented, monitored and reviewed.
Who is the SWMS for?
A SWMS should be prepared so the supervisor of the work and the worker is able to understand
the risks associated with the high risk construction work and implement the risk controls listed in
the SWMS. The SWMS should be able to be easily read by those who need to know what has
been planned to manage the risks.

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How many SWMS should be prepared?

One SWMS can be prepared to cover all the high risk construction work being carried out at the
workplace by a contractor and/or subcontractor. For example, excavation work might involve a
number of types of high risk construction work, such as:
a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres, and
a trench with an excavated depth greater than 1.5 metres.
Alternatively, a separate SWMS can be prepared for each type of high risk construction work. In
this case, thought must be given to situations where the different types of work activities may
impact on each other, in terms of potential inconsistencies between different risk control measures.
It is up to the principal contractor to coordinate work activities and eliminate these inconsistencies.
For example, if a principal contractor engages a contractor to carry out demolition work and that
contractor engages a subcontractor to carry out part of the demolition using explosives:
the principal contractor must ensure a SWMS has been prepared for all high risk
construction work being carried out including the demolition and explosives work
the contractor must ensure a SWMS has been prepared for the demolition and explosives
work, and
the explosives subcontractor must ensure a SWMS has been prepared for the work
involving explosives.
In the above example multiple SWMS may be prepared. To avoid different and inconsistent SWMS
being developed, consultation must occur to the extent necessary that all persons agree either:
one SWMS for all the demolition work that involves high risk construction work, or
a suite of SWMS that is compatible and consistent.
What if a principal contractor has not been engaged?
Where two or more contractors are engaged on construction work that includes high risk
construction work but it is not a construction project (that is, no principal contractor is involved),
then the contractors must consult and decide to either:
adopt the same SWMS (for example, one of the contractors SWMS) for the high risk
construction work, or
use their own SWMS for that work providing they are compatible and consistent and cover
all of the risks associated with the high risk construction work.
3.2
Preparing a safe work method statement
A SWMS must be prepared prior to high risk construction work being undertaken at the workplace.
When developing a SWMS the following must be taken into consideration:
the circumstance at the workplace that may affect the way in which the high risk
construction work is carried out, and
on a construction project, the WHS management plan prepared by the principal contractor.
The SWMS must:
identify work that is high risk construction work
specify hazards relating to the high risk construction work and risks to health and safety
associated with those hazards
describe the measures to be implemented to control the risks, and
describe how the risk control measures are to be implemented, monitored and reviewed.

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It is recommended that a SWMS also includes the following information:

the person conducting a business or undertakings name, address and ABN (if they have
one)
details of the person(s) responsible for ensuring implementation, monitoring and
compliance with the SWMS, and
if the work is being carried out at a construction project workplace:
o the name of the principal contractor
o the address where the high risk construction work will be carried out
o the date prepared and the date provided to the principal contractor, and
o the review date (if any).
Workers and their health and safety representatives should be consulted in the preparation of the
SWMS. If there are no workers engaged at the planning stage, consultation should occur during
worker construction induction training, when the SWMS is first made available to workers, or when
it is reviewed.
The content of a SWMS should provide clear direction on the risk controls to be implemented.
There should be no statements that require a decision to be made by supervisors or workers. For
example, the statement, use appropriate personal protective equipment does not detail the risk
control. The control measures should be clearly specified and the example of a completed SWMS
template in Appendix F illustrates how this may be done.
3.3
Implementing a safe work method statement
Construction projects
On a construction project, a person conducting a business or undertaking must not commence
high risk construction work unless they have provided the principal contractor with a copy of the
SWMS.
If the principal contractor is not aware of the content of the SWMS then they will not be able to
comply with their duties. The WHS management plan will also provide details of how the SWMS
should be provided to the principal contractor.
Complying with a safe work method statement
All persons conducting a business or undertaking who are involved in high risk construction work
must develop and implement arrangements to ensure the work is carried out in accordance with
the SWMS. Arrangements may include a system of routine or random workplace inspections. For
example, asking workers and supervisors a few questions about the controls used in the SWMS to
see if workers understand what has to be done.
If the work is not being carried out in accordance with the SWMS, then the work must stop
immediately or as soon as it is safe to do so. Work must not resume until the work can be carried
out in accordance with the SWMS.
Supervision
A person conducting a business or undertaking who directly engages workers in high risk
construction work must ensure that workers in a supervisory role (for example, leading hand,
foreman, supervisor) are provided with the training to understand and implement SWMS and the
authority to ensure the work is carried out in accordance with the SWMS.
Information and instruction
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that all workers who will be involved in
high risk construction work are provided with information and instruction so they:
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understand the hazards and the risks arising from the work
understand and implement the risk controls in a SWMS, and
know what to do if the work is not being conducted in accordance with the SWMS.
For example, this information and instruction may be provided during workplace induction training
or during a toolbox talk by principal contractor, contractor or subcontractor.
Making the SWMS available
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure the SWMS is available, on request, to
any person engaged to carry out the high risk construction work, health and safety representatives,
inspectors, any authorised person and any other workers in the vicinity.
Keeping the SWMS
The SWMS must be kept and be available for inspection until at least the high-risk construction
work is completed. Where a SWMS is revised, all versions must be kept.
The SWMS must be kept at the workplace where the high risk construction work will be carried out.
If this is not possible, then the SWMS should be kept at a location where it can be delivered to the
workplace promptly.
If a notifiable incident occurs in connection with the high-risk construction work to which the SWMS
relates then the SWMS must be kept for at least 2 years from the occurrence of the notifiable
incident. If the construction work at the workplace has ceased within that period then the person
conducting a business or undertaking should keep the SWMS available for inspection at its offices.
Making the SWMS available for inspection
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure the SWMS is available for inspection
under the WHS Act.
3.4
Reviewing a safe work method statement
A SWMS must be reviewed regularly to make sure it remains effective. A SWMS must be reviewed
(and revised if necessary):
before any change is made to the way the construction work is carried out,
before the place where the work is being carried out is changed
The review process must be carried out in consultation with contractors, subcontractors, workers
and their health and safety representatives at the workplace.
When a SWMS has been revised the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure all
persons involved with the high risk construction work are advised that a revision has been made
and how they can access the revised SWMS. The person conducting a business or undertaking
must provide a copy of the revised SWMS to the principal contractor if the work is being carried out
at a construction project.

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The person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure all persons who will need to change
a work procedure or system as a result of the revision are advised of the revision in a way that will
enable them to implement their duties consistently with the revised SWMS.
The person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure all workers that will be involved the
high risk construction work are provided with whatever information and instruction may be required
to ensure they understand and implement the revised controls in a SWMS.

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4.
WHS MANAGEMENT PLANS
This Chapter only applies to the preparation, maintenance and use of a WHS management plan by
a principal contractor for a construction project.
4.1
What is a WHS management plan?
A WHS management plan sets out the arrangements to manage work health and safety on a
construction project where there can be many contractors and subcontractors involved and where
the circumstances can change quickly from day-to-day. In larger organisations, the WHS
management plan may form part of a larger documented management system used by a principal
contractor to manage the construction project.
The WHS management plan must be in writing and easy to understand by contractors,
subcontractors and workers. It must be able to be communicated and understood to the extent that
it is applicable to their work.
The intention of a WHS management plan is to ensure the risks associated with a complex
construction project, particularly relating to the interaction and coordination of a number of
contractors and subcontractors, are effectively managed.
Who is responsible for preparing a WHS management plan?
A WHS management plan must be prepared by the principal contractor prior to the construction
work being started.
4.2
Preparing a WHS management plan
The WHS management plan prepared by the principal contractor must include:
the names, positions and health and safety responsibilities of all persons at the workplace
whose positions or roles involve specific health and safety responsibilities
the arrangements in place for consultation, cooperation and coordination
the arrangements in place for managing any work health and safety incidents
any project specific health and safety rules and the arrangements for ensuring that all
persons at the workplace are informed of these rules, and
the arrangements to collect and assess, monitor and review safe work method statements.
Further information on what should be included in a WHS management plan is included at
Appendix H.
4.3
Implementing the WHS management plan
Informing people about the WHS management plan

The principal contractor must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, all persons who are to
carry out construction work on the project are made aware of the content of the WHS management
plan in respect to their work and their right to inspect the plan.
The principal contractor must make the WHS management plan available to all persons working on
the construction project and discuss the parts that will affect them including workers, contractors,
subcontractors, project managers, architects, engineers.
Obtaining safe work method statements
The principal contractor must ensure contractors and subcontractors are aware of their
responsibility to provide a copy of their SWMS to the principal contractor prior to commencing any

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high risk construction work. SWMS and any revised versions should form part of the WHS
management plan.
The principal contractor should establish a process to collect, assess, monitor and review SWMS
to ensure work being undertaken does not conflict with risk controls being used by other
contractors or subcontractors working in the same location or create additional risks for other
workers.
Making the WHS management plan available
The principal contractor must ensure the WHS management plan (including any revisions) is
readily available to all persons who are to carry out construction work on the project, including:
workers, contractors and their workers, and people inspecting the construction work
anyone who is about to start work on the construction project, and
any worker on the project who is a member of a health and safety committee, is a health
and safety representative or has been chosen by employees to act on their behalf in
resolving a health and safety issue.
Keeping the WHS management plan
The principal contractor must ensure the WHS management plan (including any revisions to it) is
kept until the construction project is finished.
If a notifiable incident occurs during the project then the WHS management plan will need to be
available for at least 2 years from the occurrence of the notifiable incident. If the construction
project has ceased within that period then the principal contractor should keep the WHS
management plan available for inspection at its offices.
Making the WHS management plan available for inspection
The principal contractor must ensure the WHS management plan is available for inspection under
the WHS Act.
4.4
Reviewing and revising a WHS management plan
The principal contractor must review and, as necessary, revise the WHS management plan to
ensure it remains up-to-date and relevant for the construction project. A WHS management plan
must be reviewed:
before any change is made to the way the construction work is carried out
before the place where the work is being carried is changed
The review process should be undertaken in consultation with contractors, subcontractors and
workers at the workplace.
Following the revision of a WHS management plan, if a process has changed, the principal
contractor must ensure that all affected persons are advised of the revision so they can implement
their duties consistently with the revised plan. This can be achieved by providing the revisions in
writing to contractors and holding face to face toolbox meetings.

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5.
LICENCES
5.1
High risk work
A person must hold a licence before they undertake certain classes of high risk work as set out in
Schedule 3 of the WHS Regulations.
The table below summarises the duties that apply to high risk work licences.
Duty holder
Responsibilities
Person
conducting a
business or
undertaking
Worker
Must not direct or allow a person to carry out work at a workplace if the
person is not licensed in accordance with the WHS Regulations.
Must ensure that a person supervising the work of a person carrying out
high risk work provides direct supervision of the person except in the
circumstances set out in sub regulation 84(2).
Must not carry out a class of high risk work unless the person holds a high
risk work licence for that class of high risk work.
Must keep the licence document available for inspection by an inspector
under the WHS Act.
Construction work can include a range of classes of high risk work. For example, the following
plant can only be operated by a person holding a current high risk work licence:
any tower crane, including self-erecting tower cranes
non-slewing mobile cranes with a lifting capacity of more than 3 tonnes
any slewing mobile cranes
any concrete placing boom
boom-type elevating work platforms, where the length of the boom is 11 metres or more
personnel and/or materials hoists, and
forklift trucks.
Other construction work that requires a person with a high risk work licence includes:
the erection and maintenance of a scaffold that exceeds 4 metres in height, and
rigging and dogging work.
Note that while some construction work may require a person with a high risk work licence, most
activities only require competent, trained workers who hold a current general (construction)
induction card (see Chapter 6 of this Code).
5.2
Other licences
Asbestos
The WHS Regulations require a person conducting a business or undertaking who commissions
the removal of asbestos at the workplace to ensure asbestos removal work is carried out only by a
licensed asbestos removalist who is appropriately licensed to carry out the work, unless specified
in the WHS Regulations that a licence is not required.
There are two types of licences: Class A and Class B. The type of licence required will depend on
the type and quantity of asbestos or asbestos containing materials (ACM) or asbestos
contaminated dust or debris (ACD) that is being removed at a workplace.

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Type of licence
Class A
Class B
What asbestos can be removed?

Can remove any amount or quantity of asbestos or ACM, including:
any amount of friable asbestos or ACM
any amount of ACD
any amount of non-friable asbestos or ACM
Can remove:
any amount of non-friable asbestos or ACM
(Note: A Class B licence is required for removal of more than 10m2 of non-friable
asbestos or ACM but the licence holder can also remove up to 10m 2 of non-friable
asbestos or ACM).
ACD associated with the removal of non-friable asbestos or ACM
(Note: A Class B licence is required for removal of ACD associated with the removal of
more than 10m of non-friable asbestos or ACM but the licence holder can also
remove ACD associated with removal of up to 10m of non friable asbestos or ACM.
A licence is not required when:

up to 10m2 of non-friable asbestos or ACM is being removed
ACD is being removed that:
o is associated with the removal of less than 10m2 of non-friable asbestos or ACM, or
o is not associated with the removal of friable or non-friable asbestos and is only a
minor contamination.
Further information on the duties associated when removing asbestos can be found in the Code of
Practice: How to Safely Remove Asbestos.
Explosives
Explosives can only be used by a competent person who is licensed in the use of explosives and
has experience in the work to be undertaken.
All possession, storage, handling and use of explosives must be carried out in compliance with the
relevant dangerous substances/goods or explosives legislation applicable in your state or territory.
The transport of explosives must be in accordance with the Australian Code for the Transport of
Explosives by Road and Rail.
Any construction work that involves the use of explosives is defined by the WHS Regulations as
high risk construction work and a SWMS must be prepared before this work commences.
Demolition
A licence is required to undertake some demolition work but the specific requirements vary
between the states and territories. Demolition licensing will be managed nationally by the National
Occupational Licensing Authority (NOLA) but until this transition occurs, demolition licensing must
be completed in accordance with the relevant legislation applicable in your state or territory.
Trades
Building occupational licensing, such as for plumbing and electrical work, will also be managed
nationally by NOLA.
In some instances, the transition to the national licensing arrangements for building occupations
still to occur and in these cases occupational licensing must be completed in accordance with the
relevant legislation applicable in your state or territory.

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6.
INFORMATION, TRAINING, INSTRUCTION AND SUPERVISION
The WHS Act requires a person conducting a business or undertaking to provide relevant
information, training, instruction and supervision to protect all persons from risks to their health and
safety arising from work carried out.
This means that a range of activities may need to be completed to ensure people have the
necessary knowledge and skills to complete the work safely, including general construction
induction training and other training that may be specific to the workplace or the task the person is
performing.
Information that might be provided includes workplace health and safety arrangements and
procedures, including for emergency evacuations. Information can be provided in various forms,
including written formats or verbally, for example, during workplace specific inductions, pre-start
meetings or toolbox talks.
Often information and instruction are provided at the same time. In addition, supervisors will
provide specific workplace instructions during the work, including for health and safety.
Supervisors need to be aware of and provide the level of supervision necessary to ensure the
health and safety of workers, including assessing workers competency to undertake the work.
6.1
General construction induction training
General construction induction training must be completed to carry out construction work under the
WHS Regulations. General construction induction training provides basic knowledge of
construction work, the work health and safety laws that apply, common hazards likely to be
encountered in construction work, and how the associated risks can be controlled.
General construction induction training must be delivered in Australia by a Registered Training
Organisation (RTO) and cover the content set out in the specified unit of competency for general
construction induction training. The training will include:
the roles, responsibilities and rights of duty holders
health and safety consultation and reporting processes
the principles of risk management
common construction hazards and risk control measures, and
safety information and documentation (for example, WHS management plans and SWMS).
Any person who is to undertake construction work must successfully complete general construction
induction training for example, project managers and engineers, architects, foreman, supervisors,
surveyors, labourers and trades persons. There may also be other people who would benefit from
completing general construction induction training so they are aware of the hazards and risk
controls at the workplace, for example:
persons who access construction workplaces unaccompanied or are not directly supervised
by a person with a general construction induction card, and
persons whose work causes them to routinely enter construction workplaces.
General construction induction training cards
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure workers have successfully completed
general construction induction training before starting construction work and that each construction
worker holds:
a general construction induction training card, or

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a general construction induction training certification that has been issued within the
preceding 60 days if the worker has applied for but not yet issued with a general
construction induction training card.
Construction workers must keep their card available for inspection by an inspector. They will also
need to provide their card to the person conducting a business or undertaking that engages them
so they can be sure the worker has successfully completed the training.
If a worker has applied for a general construction induction training card and has not been notified
of the decision on the application, the certificate is only valid for 60 days. If the worker receives a
cancellation notice, they must return the card as requested in the notice.
6.2
Workplace specific training
Workplace specific training aims to provide participants with knowledge of work health and safety
issues and safe work practices specific to a particular construction workplace. For example,
project-specific construction induction training may be developed and implemented by a principal
contactor for a construction project to make sure that everyone working on the project understands
how health and safety is managed.
All workers and other persons visiting the workplace should attend workplace specific training so
they can become aware of procedures, management and reporting arrangements as well as other
issues that are relevant to a particular construction workplace.
Workplace specific training should be conducted by a person conducting a business or undertaking
that has management or control at the workplace. This is usually the principal contractor.
Where there are several persons conducting a business or undertaking share duties at a
construction workplace, consultation, cooperation and coordination must occur to ensure workers
are informed of and understand the procedures and arrangements for the workplace.
Construction workplace specific training should cover the following:
safety documents, policies and plans, including the WHS management plan and SWMS
supervisory, consultation and reporting arrangements
workplace safety rules, including first aid provisions and emergency procedures
workplace facilities, including their location, use and maintenance
emergency procedures including after hours emergency contacts
access, egress and security
workplace specific hazards and control measures
how safety issues and disputes are resolved, including health and safety representative
arrangements
how to report hazards and unsafe work practices
how to report accidents, incidents and dangerous occurrences
what to do if a person is injured, including first aid provisions, and
workers compensation arrangements.
6.3
Other training
Other training can also be provided to give information and instruction to anyone undertaking a
particular construction activity. For example, task specific training may be provided to communicate
hazards and risk controls and to provide the skills necessary for workers to carry out a specific task
safely.

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This type of training should be identified as a control measure as a result of a risk assessment or
risk control review. For example, if a worker is carrying out a hazardous task incorrectly, a revised
combination of control measures could include task specific training to show workers the proper
technique.
If task specific training is conducted, it should be developed for the specific task and regularly
reviewed and updated whenever there are changes to the task, processes, systems of work, plant
and substances that may affect health and safety.
6.4
Supervision
Adequate supervision must be provided, particularly where workers are unfamiliar with the site or
the nature of the work.
Workers in a supervisory role (for example, leading hand or foreman) should be trained and
authorised to ensure the work is carried out in accordance with relevant SWMS.

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7.
FACILITIES AND THE WORK ENVIRONMENT
Under the WHS Regulations, a person conducting a business and undertaking is responsible for
providing access to facilities at their workplace and a safe working environment. For example, a
principal contractor for a construction project can be responsible for putting these arrangements in
place to ensure compliance at the workplace.
7.1
Facilities at a construction workplace
Given the often temporary and dynamic nature of construction workplaces, how these facilities are
provided and who provides them will vary at workplaces that carry out construction work.
The table below summarises duties of a person conducting a business or undertaking to provide
facilities at the workplace.
Duty holder
Responsibilities
Person
conducting a
business or
undertaking
Must, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure the provision of adequate

facilities for workers, including toilets, drinking water, washing facilities and
eating facilities.
Must, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure the facilities are
maintained in a good working order and are clean, safe and accessible.
When providing facilities, must consider all relevant matters, including:
o the nature of the work being carried out at the workplace
o the nature of the hazards at the workplace
o the size, location and nature of the workplace, and
o the number and composition of the workers at the workplace.
Must, so far as is reasonably practicable, consult with affected workers
when making decisions about the adequacy of facilities for the welfare of
workers.
Deciding what facilities are required

To decide what facilities are required at any particular construction workplace, a person conducting
a business or undertaking must consider:
the nature of the work being carried out, for example, if workers are required to change into
protective clothing to use hazardous chemicals, it may be reasonably practicable to provide
change rooms
the nature of the hazards at the workplace, for example, if workers are required to travel
over an extensive area at the workplace, they should be provided with portable, clean
drinking water
the size, location and nature of the workplace, for example:
o where there are existing suitable facilities available (for example, a factory shutdown) arrange with the owner to use these facilities
o where the construction work will be carried out in remote or isolated area that is not
connected to essential services, potable toilets, drinking water and washing facilities
should be provided, and
the number and composition of the workers at the workplace, for example:
o facilities need to be accessible to during the hours that shift workers are working,
and

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where there are both male and female workers, separate toilet, washing and shower
facilities may be required.
Note: Toilets, washing and shower facilities should not be used for any other purposes for example,
storing of dangerous goods.
The table in Appendix I provides examples of some common construction workplaces and the
facilities that might be suitable for these workplaces.
Further guidance on workplace facilities is available in Chapter 3 of the Code of Practice:
Managing the Work Environment and Facilities.
First aid
All workplaces must have first aid provisions in case of injury or illness. All construction workplaces
should have access to a trained first aider. First aid staff should be familiar with the specific
conditions and hazards at the construction workplace and the types of injuries likely to occur.
The principal contractor must put in place arrangements for ensuring compliance with the
requirement to provide first aid at the construction project workplace. How the principal contractor
intends to ensures compliance should be detailed in the WHS management plan.
When considering first aid provisions for a workplace, including the number of and training
requirements for first aiders, the person conducting a business or undertaking and/or the principal
contractor, should take into account the:
nature of the work and the workplace hazards
size and location of the workplace, and
number and occupations of the workers and other people.
A construction workplace where high risk construction work is undertaken should be considered to
be a high risk workplace. In these high-risk construction workplaces or environments, it may be
appropriate to employ specific occupational health professionals or services.
Further guidance on how to provide first aid is available at the [draft] Code of Practice: First Aid in
the Workplace.
7.2
The work environment
Entry and exit

A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure the means of entry and exit to and
from all areas of their workplace are safe. For example, providing separate entries and exits for
mobile plant (including cranes or trucks) and pedestrians will reduce the risk of persons being hit
by moving vehicles. If persons and vehicles have to share a traffic route, use kerbs, barriers or
clear markings to designate a safe walkway and traffic management controls implemented.
Housekeeping
As untidy workplace can cause injuries good housekeeping practices are essential to ensure a
safe workplace. For example:
the entry, exits and access ways in the workplace are kept clean and clear of materials and
waste
a safe system implemented for collecting, storing and disposing of excess or waste
materials
enough area is allocated to safely store materials or plant for the construction work, and

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making protruding objects that are a hazard safe (e.g. bending over or removing exposed
nails and placing a cap over vertical reinforcing steel).
Principal contractors must also ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the storage, movement
and disposal of construction materials and waste at the workplace are without risks to health and
safety. This should be considered when preparing a WHS management plan.
Work areas
Work areas need to be clearly identified and separated as necessary so that work can be
undertaken safely. Vehicle, plant and pedestrian traffic in the workplace need to be controlled
through signage, physical barriers and/or traffic controllers.
Where there is risk of falling objects, exclusion zones may need to be created to prevent
unauthorised people entering the work area and being put at risk.
Floors and surfaces
The type of work surfaces that are required at a workplace will depend on the different phases of
construction and the type of work being carried out. Construction work surfaces will vary (for
example, earth, steel, timber and concrete) and the risk of slips, trips and falls must be
appropriately controlled.
Consideration will need to be given to the surface slope, profile and how workers carry out work on
the surface. Dust, moisture and the materials from which the surface is constructed will also
present hazards to workers and the placement of materials and equipment. Surfaces should be
inspected regularly and maintained to eliminate or minimise slip and trip hazards.
Lighting
Sufficient lighting, whether it is from a natural or artificial source must be provided to allow safe
movement around the workplace so workers can perform their job safely.
Heat and cold
Heat stress can arise from working in high air temperatures, exposure to high thermal radiation or
high levels of humidity, including working on a formwork deck, landscaping works and fit-out work
in an enclosed non air-conditioned structure. The symptoms of heat stress include dizziness,
fatigue, headache, nausea, breathlessness, clammy skin or difficulty remaining alert.
Hypothermia arises when a person gets an abnormally low body temperature as a result of
exposure to cold environments and wind chill on exposed skin. The symptoms of exposure to
extreme cold include numbness in hands or fingers, uncontrolled shivering, loss of fine motor skills
and slurred speech and difficulty thinking clearly.
Both of these conditions are potentially fatal. If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate
exposure to heat and cold, risks can be minimised with a range of control measures. For example,
in hot work environments consider installing shade structures, fans, air-conditioners, evaporative
coolers, task rotation and rest breaks, or isolating workers from heat. Make sure that workers have
access to adequate, cool, clean water.
In cold work environments, consider providing localised heating, protection from wind and rain or
task rotation and rest breaks for workers. These practices will allow a workers body temperature to
return to its normal level before recommencing activities.
Outdoor work

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Outdoor workers should be provided with protection in adverse weather conditions, for example,
sunshades, sheds, caravans, tents, and windbreaks. Protection against solar ultraviolet (UV)
exposure is also important, for example by:
organising outdoor work so that workers carry out alternative tasks or work in shade during
hot periods of the day, and
providing personal protective clothing and equipment, such as a wide brim hat, long
sleeved and collared shirt, long pants, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Remote and isolated work
Remote or isolated work is work carried out anywhere a person is unable to get immediate
assistance from other workers or other people in an emergency or when requiring assistance to
perform a task. The Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities provides
guidance on assessing the risk and implementing appropriate controls.
7.3
Emergency plan
All workplaces must have an emergency plan that has been specifically developed for the
particular workplace and its specific hazards and cover a range of potential incidents.
The emergency procedures in the emergency plan must clearly explain how to respond in various
types of emergency, including how to evacuate people from the workplace in a controlled manner.
Contact numbers for emergency services should be prominently displayed.
A reliable and effective means of communication should be established between all work areas,
and persons involved to permit and ensure effective evacuation of danger areas.
Rescue equipment for the prompt removal of an injured worker, as well as a communication
system to contact any necessary emergency services, should be available and readily accessible
at the workplace.
Evacuation procedures should be established and communicated to all workers and may include:
a warning system
safe and rapid evacuation procedures, including for injured persons
having trained personnel to respond to and oversee the evacuation of injured persons
appropriate medical treatment and evacuation of injured persons
shutting down of work, including plant and electrical equipment
information regarding hazardous substances located on site
provision of fire fighting and rescue equipment at appropriate locations, and
display of evacuation procedures in appropriate location(s) at the workplace.

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8.
CONTROLLING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK
There are a range of health and safety risks that will need to be controlled during construction
work. The following information should also help in managing common hazards and control risks in
construction work.
The WHS Regulations also define a number of construction activities as high risk construction work
and these require documented risk controls to be included in a SWMS. Further information on
these activities, the risks and risk control requirements, and relevant risk control reference material
that might be useful is provided in Appendix E.
8.1
Falls and falling objects
The risk of persons or objects falling in construction work must be controlled.

Any construction work that involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres is defined by the
WHS Regulations as high risk construction work and a SWMS must be prepared before this work
commences.
When work must be undertaken at height or there are open excavations there will be a risk of
people or objects that fall, topple over or roll over. If work cannot be performed safely from the
ground or from solid construction, passive fall protection, such as perimeter guard rails and
temporary work platforms (for example, scaffolding, elevating work platforms and work boxes)
should be provided.
If the provision of passive fall protection is not reasonably practicable or fully effective, then other
forms of fall protection should be used in conjunction with passive fall protection. These may
include work positioning systems or fall arrest devices.
Where ladders are used they must be selected to suit the task to be undertaken. In doing this, you
should consider the duration of the task, the physical surroundings of where the task is to be
undertaken and the prevailing weather conditions.
Falling objects can pose a significant risk and cause serious injuries to workers on construction
workplaces or members of the public if controls are not implemented to eliminate or minimise the
associated risks. For example, a person could receive fatal head injuries if building materials or
equipment is not secured or prevented from falling. It is essential to ensure that objects do not fall
onto workers or other persons who may be under or adjacent to the area where the work is being
performed.
Objects that could fall include:
parts of a structure being built or dismantled
walls being demolished
materials stored or stacked at the workplace
construction or waste material
debris
plant
tools
scaffolding components, and
pre-cast concrete panels.

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The WHS Regulations require that a person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure
risks associated with an object falling at the workplace are minimised, so far as is reasonably
practicable, by implementing one or more of the following risk control measures (in descending
order of priority):
provision of a safe means of raising and lowering plant, material and debris
provision of a secure physical barrier to prevent objects falling freely from one level to another
use of personal protective equipment
administrative controls
other reasonably practicable risk control measures.
Measures to control the risk of an object falling should be implemented first, for example by
properly securing loads being raised or lowered, before considering measures to protect people
from being hit by objects if they do fall. Risk controls that you should consider include:
using the appropriate equipment to raise and lower objects, including ensuring that working
load limits are not exceeded
providing a secure physical barrier at the edge of the elevated area, such as toe boards or
infill panels that form part of a guardrail system, and
erecting perimeter containment screening made of mesh, timber, plywood or metal
sheeting. The framework supporting the screen should be able to bear the load of the
screen.
Control measures which may be implemented to control falling objects when undertaking
construction work include:
securing and properly bracing structures (elimination)
perimeter containment screening (passive fall protection)
toe boards on edge protection (passive fall protection)
tool lanyards (fall arrest)
a catch platform and/or nets (fall arrest)
a gantry where work involving multiple levels is being performed that is beside a footpath
(fall arrest)
closure of the adjoining area to form an exclusion zone (administrative)
a traffic management device (administrative)
a road diversion or traffic detour (administrative)
traffic controllers to direct pedestrians or other traffic (administrative)
working outside normal hours (administrative)
PPE such as hard hats (PPE).
When considering control measures to contain or catch falling objects, you should identify the
types of objects that could fall, as well as the fall gradient and distance, to ensure that any
protective equipment or structures are strong enough to withstand the impact forces of the falling
object. Examples of these control measures include:
erecting a covered, pedestrian walkway
erecting a catch platform with vertical sheeting or perimeter screening, and
providing overhead protective structures on mobile plant.
Other control measures to minimise the risks associated with falling objects involve:
tethering tools to lanyards when working at height
using chutes when placing debris into a skip below the work area

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enclosing areas over which loads are being lifted

establishing a no-go zone with the necessary barriers and training of workers in its
observation, and
using personal protective equipment such as hard hats.
Perimeter guard rails
Guard rails may be used to provide effective fall prevention:
at the edges of roofs
at the edges of mezzanine floors, walkways, stairways, ramps and landings
on top of plant and structures where access is required
around openings in floor and roof structures, and
at the edges of shafts, pits and other excavations.
The installation of Guardrailing should include the following:
a top rail 900mm to 1100mm above the working surface
toeboards or mesh infill to prevent tools, materials and debris falling from the roof, unless
an exclusion zone is established below the area where roofing works are being carried out
and the slope of the roof is less than 15 degrees
an additional mid-rail to ensure the nominal clear distance between rails does not exceed
450mm, and
a third rail or in-fill panel where the distance, through which a person may fall, between the
work surface and the mid rail exceeds 250mm.
The Code of Practice: Scaffolding [under development] provides information on the requirements
of using and installing these types of systems as guardrail or fall arrest platforms, and working on
roofs with a pitch over 26 degrees.
Where the slope of the roof exceeds 35 degrees, the roof is an inappropriate surface to stand on.
Perimeter guardrails and catch platforms are inappropriate measures to protect workers on a
steeply sloping roof. In these circumstances, roof workers need a system to prevent sliding and to
prevent falls from the perimeter, comprising one or more of the following:
aerial access equipment, such as an elevating work platform
a work positioning system, such as travel restraint or industrial rope access system
a scaffold platform, located at the roof edge (fall arrest platform), or
a roof ladder.
Proprietary systems should be configured, installed, used and dismantled in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions.
Before using a guard rail system, a check should be undertaken to ensure it is adequate for
potential loads. The required load resistance will depend on the momentum of a falling person. For
example, the momentum of a person falling from a pitched roof will increase as the pitch (or angle)
of the roof increases.
For further guidance, refer to AS/NZS 4994 Temporary Edge Protection.
Perimeter safety screens
Perimeter safety screens are a protective structure fixed to the perimeter of a building, structure or
working platform to prevent objects and people from falling. They can also be used to redirect a
falling object onto a catch platform.

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A perimeter safety screen can be an effective physical barrier control measure to protect workers
and others within the boundary of the construction workplace and to protect others exposed to the
risk of falling objects outside the boundary of the construction workplace.
Perimeter safety screens should not have any gaps greater than 25mm.
Mesh used for perimeter safety screening should be made of at least 2.5mm diameter steel with a
tensile strength of at least 380MPa and the openings within the mesh should not be over:
if the mesh has lining securely attached to the inside of the mesh - 50mm in any direction,
or
Otherwise - 25mm in any direction.
Lining includes intact shade cloth or another intact lining that, when tested in accordance with
method A in AS 2001.2.4, has a mean bursting pressure of at least 1000kPa.
Catch platform or safety nets
A catch platform or safety net is a temporary platform and/or net located below a work area that is
designed to catch a worker or a falling object and sustain the maximum potential impact load. A
catch platform and/or net is an effective physical barrier control measure to protect workers and
others within the boundary of the construction workplace who are exposed to a fall risk or the risk
of falling objects. It may also provide protection to others exposed to the risk of falling objects
outside the boundary of the construction workplace.
If a catch platform used or to be used as a control measure is installed, extended or reduced, the
person conducting a business or undertaking should ensure that control measures are used to
prevent a component of the platform falling on persons while the platform is being installed,
extended or reduced.
Overhead protective structures (Gantry)
A gantry is a structure that has an overhead platform and a hoarding at least 1800mm high that is
fully sheeted with timber, plywood, metal or sturdy synthetic sheets, running along its length, and is
designed to be able to stop an object that may reasonably be expected to fall on it.
A gantry is an effective physical barrier control measure to protect persons moving about within the
area covered by the gantry. However, a gantry should be used in conjunction with other control
measures to eliminate or minimise the risk from falling objects to health and safety.
Exclusion zones
The closure of part or all of an adjoining work or public area to form an exclusion zone can be an
effective control measure to protect persons from the risk of falling objects. However, as an
administrative control it should be used in conjunction with other controls and will require direct
supervision to ensure it remains effective.
The establishment of an exclusion zone may necessitate the erection of appropriate signage
and/or barriers and the use of traffic controllers depending on the ease of access and the ability of
workers or members of the public to access the area. The provision of perimeter fencing around
the area will assist the operation of exclusion zones.
If an adjoining public area is to be closed, a person conducting a business or undertaking should,
before construction work starts, do each of the following:
ensure that written approval to close the area is obtained from the authority (for example, a
local government authority or police service) or other person who controls the area, and

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if an authority controls the area, use any measures for the closure required by the authority,
for example:
o physical barriers to prevent use of a footpath or road
o signs about the closure and to direct traffic
o signs directing pedestrians to use another footpath or access way, and
o traffic controllers to direct pedestrians or other traffic.
Lifting loads over adjoining public area

Generally, loads should not be lifted over people or property. If it is necessary to do so, a person
conducting a business or undertaking should ensure that, before the work starts:
the adjoining area is closed at least to the extent necessary to prevent objects falling on or
otherwise hitting persons in the adjoining area, or
a gantry is erected that provides adequate protection to persons in the adjoining area
against falling objects if the load were to fall, for example, if a pallet of scaffolding
components is to be lifted over an adjoining area, the downwards force that the gantrys
overhead platform must be able to withstand is:
o if the force applied by the pallet and components is less than or equal to 10kPa 10kPa, or
o if the force applied by the pallet and components is greater than 10kPa - the force
applied by the pallet and components.
Hoardings and barricades
A hoarding or barricade when erected to protect a person from a falling object must be designed to
be able to stop an object that may reasonably be expected to strike it from entering the adjoining
area.
The hoarding or barricade must be strong enough and appropriately designed and erected for the
circumstances in which it is used, including the location of the workplace and the type of work to be
carried out near the hoarding or barricade.
Controls to protect other persons including members of the public
Before deciding on an appropriate control measure for members of the public consideration must
be given to the highest point of the structure where work is to be performed and an object could fall
and its proximity to the boundary line.
A hoarding, barricade or gantry that can stop an object that has fallen from the highest point of the
structure from striking a member of the public at or beyond the boundary line may be an
appropriate control measure to minimise the risk of falling objects to the public.
If a hoarding, barricade or gantry cannot ensure that an object that has fallen from the highest
point of the structure will not strike a member of the public at or beyond the boundary line, then the
person conducting a business or undertaking should consider controlling the risk by using
perimeter safety screening, or a gantry, or by closing part or all of the adjoining area.
Controls when erecting or dismantling formwork/falsework or demolition work
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that, before the construction work
involving erecting or dismantling formwork or demolition work starts they must implement
appropriate control measures to prevent objects falling on or otherwise hitting persons. These
control measures may include:
For other persons and members of the public:

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the adjoining area, being that beside the boundary line, is closed at least to the extent
necessary to prevent objects falling on or otherwise hitting other persons or members of the
public.
For other persons and members of the public as well as workers within the workplace:
perimeter safety screening is erected along each part of a structure from which an object
could fall.
scaffolding erected with perimeter safety screening, mesh or mesh fitted with a prescribed
lining is erected along each part of a structure from which an object could fall.
Further guidance on formwork/falsework and demolition work is available in:
Code of Practice: Formwork and Falsework [under development], and
[draft] Code of Practice: Demolition Work.
Further guidance on controlling the risk of falls is available in the:
Code of Practice: How to Prevent Falls at Workplaces, and
[draft] Code of Practice: Preventing Falls in Housing Construction.
Further information on managing the risks of falls is also available in AS/NZS 1891: Industrial fallarrest systems and devices - Selection, use and maintenance.
8.2
Traffic management
Any construction work that is carried out on, in or adjacent to a road, railway, shipping lane or other
traffic corridor that is in use by traffic other than pedestrians is defined by the WHS Regulations as
high risk construction work and a SWMS must be prepared before this work commences.
Managing traffic is essential to providing a safe and healthy construction workplace. Traffic can
include construction vehicles (for example, cars, utes, trucks), non-construction vehicles (for
example, delivery trucks, private vehicles), powered mobile plant and pedestrians. Vehicles and
powered mobile plant moving in and around workplaces, reversing, loading and unloading, are
activities frequently linked with workplace injuries and fatalities.
Traffic management planning details the work to be undertaken and the stages involved, identifies
the frequency of interaction of construction vehicles, powered mobile plant and pedestrians,
evaluates the effectiveness of any risk control measures, lists contacts and who has
responsibilities or needs to be notified, describes the management of emergencies, the impact on
the general area and how these impacts are to be managed.
Elements to take into account in traffic management planning include pedestrian and traffic routing,
traffic demand, traffic controls and the types of controls needed, requirements for special vehicles
(over-dimensional), emergency services and workplace access, parking requirements and welfare
facilities for visiting drivers.
Traffic management planning should set out the preferred travel paths for vehicles associated with
a workplace, including points to enter and leave the workplace, haul routes for debris or
plant/materials, or traffic crossing another stream of traffic. Planning should include traffic taming
concepts to limit speed and limit the potential to take incorrect paths. The planning should include
arrangements for persons, powered mobile plant and vehicle traffic in the work area and also
identify travel paths on routes remote from the workplace such as places to turn around, dump
material, access ramps and side roads.

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Workplaces should be arranged so that persons are able to move safely to and from as well as
within the workplace. Pedestrian and vehicle pathways need to be kept free of obstruction and the
movement and speed of vehicles and plant should be managed in a way to minimise the risk of
injury to pedestrians and operators.
Vehicle and pedestrian movement should be planned and controlled so that pedestrians and plant
can operate safely at the workplace at the same time. Where practicable, the two should be kept
separate and work in separate areas. The movement of visitors should be limited with barriers and
signage.
Prior to commencement of any excavation that affects roads or traffic movement, traffic
management planning should be completed to include, where necessary, a traffic controller, traffic
signals (portable or permanent), barricades and any road closures. Traffic management planning
should be in written form and available at the workplace at all times.
Further guidance on traffic management activities is available in the Code of Practice: Traffic
management for work on or near roads [under development].
8.3
Essential services
Essential services include the supply of gas, water, sewerage, telecommunications, electricity,
chemicals, fuel and refrigerant in pipes or lines. It is the duty of the principal contractor to ensure,
so far as is reasonably practicable, that persons working on or about essential services at a
construction project are without risks to health and safety.
Any construction work that is carried out:
on or near pressurised gas distribution mains or piping
on or near chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines, or
on or near energised electrical installations
is defined by the WHS Regulations as high risk construction work and a SWMS must be prepared
before this work commences.
Before work commences, the principal contractor must find out from appropriate sources what
services are at or near the location where the work is to be done that could create a risk if
contacted or damaged. Services may be underground or hidden in floor slabs and behind walls.
Underground essential services
The WHS Regulations require that before commencing excavation work, a person conducting a
business or undertaking must take all reasonable steps to obtain current underground services
information that relates to the workplace and areas adjacent to the workplace.
Where there are underground essential services and excavation work is to be undertaken, the
WHS Regulations current information on the services must be obtained prior to commencing work
and:
there must be regard for the information during the work
the information must be readily available for inspection under the WHS Act
make the information available to any principal contractor and subcontractors, and
retain the information until the excavation is completed or, if there is a notifiable incident
relating to the excavation, 2 years after the incident occurs.
General location of underground services can be determined by a number of different methods
including:

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contacting organisations that can assist in locating underground services (for example,
DIAL BEFORE YOU DIG)
search of records held by the client, and
those used by specialist organisations/devices.
It may be necessary to use multiple methods to locate all services.

Ways to verify the exact location of a service include:
using those used by specialist organisations/devices
vacuum (suction) excavation, or
hand digging using appropriate hand tools, such as with non-conductive handles.
This information should be recorded in writing and given to other contractors or subcontractors at
the workplace, so the information is considered when planning all work in the area.
8.4
Hazardous manual tasks
A manual task is a task requiring the person to use force to lift, lower, push, pull, carry or otherwise
move, hold or restrain any person, animal or thing.
Manual tasks cover a wide range of activities including: operating mobile plant, using hand held
tools, erecting and dismantling scaffolding, handling materials such as steel, timber, and bricks.
Sometimes tasks are made more difficult by the person having restricted movement such as work
on ladders and elevated work platforms.
Equipment, tasks and work environments should be designed and/or selected so that manual
handling risks are eliminated or minimised so far as is reasonably practicable. Examples include
using well-designed and suitable plant to lift and move materials and the supply of materials in
easy to handle sizes and weights and reducing the carrying distance.
Some of the ways that risks involved with manual tasks can be eliminated or minimised, include:
purchasing pre-packaged materials in smaller bags/containers or have materials supplied
and handled in bulk
improve the design and ease of handling of materials and components such as
plasterboard, glass, mirrors and roof trusses by making them lighter weight or incorporate
lifting points able to be handled with mechanical aids;
use mechanical aids such as cranes, hoists, forklifts; laser screed for concreting; a brick
elevator to deliver materials to elevated work areas; and vacuum lifters for windows and
sheet materials
store building materials and tools between waist and shoulder height and use work
benches to reduce the amount of bending
ensure clear access and adequate space where manual tasks are being performed
ensure materials are placed close to where the work is being done to reduce the distance
that loads are being handled
ensure tools and equipment are well maintained
ensure the right tool for the job is used
organise the work to
o reduce the frequency and duration that a worker performs a task;
o ensure that the worker has regular rest breaks
o reduce congestion by proper sequencing of work
o ensure that there are adequate numbers of workers,

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ensure adequate supervision

provide manual tasks training and ensure worker competency for the task
control vibration at its source by purchasing vibration damped equipment and engine
mountings
The best time to make sure that all the risks are controlled is during the design and planning stage
of the project. Consult with designers and those involved in planning the work to ensure that the
work process which impact manual tasks have been considered and managed.
Brief the designers and engineers designing the structures to consider the manual task
implications for the life cycle of the design including cleaning and maintenance.
Modify tasks or equipment involved in manual tasks to make sure risk is eliminated or
minimised.
Specify to suppliers that their materials, equipment, products and their packaging, including
the way they are delivered, are designed to reduce the risk of injury to your workers.
Further guidance on managing the risks involved with manual tasks is available in the Code of
Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks.
8.5
Hazardous chemicals
Construction work can occur at workplaces that contain or have contained hazardous materials,
including chemicals. Hazardous chemicals may also be used in construction work, for example,
where chemical stabilisation techniques or chemical anchors are used.
The risks arising from potential exposure to hazardous chemicals should be assessed and
controlled in accordance with the WHS Regulations.
The [draft] Code of Practice: Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals provides detailed guidance
on chemical risk controls and technical information for all industries. The following information is
provided to assist with chemical management at a construction workplace.
Anyone working with hazardous chemicals must be made aware of the risks and provided with
adequate controls (refer to hierarchy of controls in Chapter 2 of this Code).
Any contractor or subcontractor introducing new chemicals to the workplace must provide details of
the chemicals to the principal contractor.
Hazardous Chemicals Register
A hazardous chemicals register is a list of all the hazardous chemicals that are used, handled or
stored at the workplace along with the safety data sheet for each chemical. This information may
be maintained either as a hard copy or in electronic format. The register must be kept in a place
that is easily accessible to workers and other persons that may come in contact with the chemicals
including emergency service personnel.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
The manufacturer or importer must supply a SDS for every hazardous chemical. This sheet
contains information about the substance including chemical composition, PPE requirements, safe
storage and handling practices and what to do during an emergency involving the hazardous
chemical. Safety data sheets are required to be reviewed every 5 years. The register should
include the most up to date version of the SDS (that is, less than 5 years old).

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Further guidance on safety data sheets is available in the Code of Practice: Preparation of Safety
Data Sheets for Hazardous Chemicals.
Contaminated materials
Before starting any construction work, the workplace should be examined to determine whether:
there is anything which could be a fire and/or explosion risk
any previous use of the site might cause a risk because of the nature of and/or
decomposition of materials, and
there are any toxic, radioactive or other hazardous materials present.
Any hazardous materials should be clearly identified so that adequate risk controls can be
implemented to ensure the health and safety of everyone on or near the workplace. If the nature of
the material cannot be easily and reliably determined, samples should be taken and analysed by a
competent person. Some hazardous materials will need to be specially removed and disposed of.
The principal contractor and/or the construction contractor has the responsibility of informing all
workers of the presence of hazardous materials or chemicals, as well as the measures for
controlling exposure and safe disposal. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for hazardous chemicals must
be readily available for reference.
Materials that can present a physical, chemical and/or biological risk to human health include some
forms of metals (such as lead, cadmium and mercury), toxic elements and compounds:
hydrocarbons and chlorinated hydrocarbons; pesticides: toxic, explosive and asphyxiant gases;
combustible substances; biologically active substances and micro-organisms; hazardous wastes:
radioactive wastes and other material such as asbestos, synthetic mineral fibres and silica dust.
People may be exposed to contaminants through inhalation (breathing), ingestion (swallowing) or
absorption (through the skin and or eyes). Appropriate, clean facilities and amenities need to be
provided for workers to minimise risks where there are hazardous materials present.
Where contaminated materials are found to be present, an appropriate assessment of the
exposure levels should be undertaken before selecting the control measures. A risk assessment
process should be used to determine the engineering controls, work practices and workplace
atmospheric or biological monitoring required.
Monitoring measures the amount that workers may be exposed to any contaminants or hazardous
substances and may be needed as a part of the risk assessment or to check that control measures
are effective. Monitoring of airborne contaminants such as dust and fumes involves taking air
samples and checking against the relevant standard.
Some of these contaminants may be hazardous chemicals that have exposure standards that must
be observed. Details of exposure standards are set out in the manufacturers Safety Data Sheet
(SDS) or in the Workplace Exposure Standards for Airborne Contaminants.
Control measures for the handling and removal of the contaminated material will be required. The
following are examples of control measures for hazardous substances contained in dust:
extracting dust at the point of generation and collecting it in such a manner so as not to
affect the health and safety of persons at the workplace
using water, detergents or other substances to suppress dust at the point of generation
using tools fitted with dust extraction and/or with a water attachment
using low pressure water sprays sufficient to suppress dust
fitting water applicators onto machinery rather than hand holding them
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fitting appropriate air filtering systems to the air conditioning units of excavators and other
machinery
growing vegetation on stockpiles or covering them
covering trucks removing material before leaving the workplace
spraying water over areas to be ripped and leaving overburden in place when ripping
limiting exposures to dust, and
using respirators that are capable of preventing persons inhaling hazardous dust or other
airborne contaminants at the concentration and duration of the exposure.
Hazardous atmospheres
An atmosphere is a hazardous atmosphere if:
the atmosphere does not have a safe oxygen level
the concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere increases the fire risk
the concentration of a flammable gas, vapour, mist, or fumes is more than 5 percent of the
lower explosive limit for the gas, vapour, mist or fumes, or
a hazardous chemical in the form of a combustible dust is present in a quantity and form
that would result in a hazardous area.
Construction work involving the use of flammable solvents will give rise to airborne flammable
vapours which if allowed to accumulate and exceed the lower explosive limit, will pose a risk of
ignition. In addition to controlling potential ignition sources, ensure that adequate ventilation is
provided during the use, handling and storage of flammable substances.
Gases and fumes
Gases and fumes can collect in enclosed spaces or excavations and displace oxygen (for
example, gases, such as methane and sulphur dioxide; engine fumes, such as carbon monoxide
and carbon dioxide, and leakage from gas bottles, fuel tanks/lines, sewers, drains, gas pipes and
LPG tanks).
The gases or fumes most likely to be found in various kinds of excavations are listed in Table 1
below. Note that some of these gases can be toxic, flammable and/or an asphyxiant, as shown in
Table 2.
Where a risk assessment indicates the possibility of airborne contaminants, the workplace should
be tested by a competent person using appropriate detection equipment. Test should be
conducted with reference to the Workplace Exposure Standards for Airborne Contaminants.
If airborne contaminants are detected, the risk of exposure must be eliminated where reasonably
practicable. This may require the identification of the source (for example, a leaking pipe) and its
removal (for example, pipe repair).
Where the risk of exposure cannot be eliminated, tests should also be carried out before work
starts and at regular intervals throughout the period of work. Mechanical ventilation or exhausts
may be required to achieve safe oxygen and contaminant levels.

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Table 1: Gases commonly found in excavations and trenches

Gases or fumes found
Type of ground
Methane, hydrogen sulphide
Peaty ground and decaying organic matter
Carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulphide
Filled and made ground
Carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen sulphide
Reclaimed land and tip fills
Natural gas and carbon dioxide
City streets
Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen

sulphide, sulphur dioxide, methane
Thermal areas
Petrol fumes, LPG, kerosene
Petroleum installation and service stations
Table 2: Toxic, flammable and asphyxiate gases

Gas
Toxic
Methane
Flammable
Asphyxiant
Hydrogen sulphide
Carbon dioxide
Natural gas
Carbon monoxide
Sulphur Dioxide
Petrol Fumes, LPG
Kerosene
Where testing reveals an oxygen deficient or contaminated atmosphere, the work should stop until
adequate risk controls have been implemented. Where this is not practicable, appropriate
respiratory protective equipment must be selected and used.
If combustible or explosive gases are suspected, all persons including members of the public must
be evacuated from the workplace and kept away from the area until control measures are
implemented. Where a hazardous work area is identified, the area should be secured against
unauthorised entry and appropriately signed.
Further guidance on respiratory protective equipment can be found in the:
Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities, and
Guidance Material: Personal Protective Equipment [under development].
Fire and combustible material not to be accumulated
Flammable or combustible substances include:
flammable and combustible liquids such as petrol and diesel fuels, adhesives and resins,
enamel paints and associated thinners and lacquers, and oils, and
gas cylinders whether empty or full such as acetylene and LPG.

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These materials contribute to the fire load at a construction workplace and hence their quantities
should be minimised to reduce the fire risk.
Further information on the storage and handling of combustible material is available in AS 1940:
The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids.
Ignition sources
Flammable or combustible gases, vapours, dusts and mists may be generated or evolve within a
hazardous chemical storage and handling environment. These can form explosive mixtures with air
in certain proportions.
An area where an explosive atmosphere may occur is described as a hazardous area. An ignition
source is any source of energy sufficient to ignite a flammable atmosphere. Ignition sources at a
construction workplace may include:
naked flames, including those from blow torches, heaters, pilot lights, driers, cigarettes,
lighters and matches
static electricity (for example, generated by workers clothing)
heat from portable equipment
friction from moving parts, such as fan blades rubbing nearby surfaces
sparks from grinding and welding
internal combustion engines and vehicles, and
electric equipment, such as power points, extension cords, power tools, switches, lighting,
appliances and battery-powered forklift trucks, radio transmitters and mobile phones which
are not rated for a hazardous area.
Potential ignition sources as described above must be controlled where flammable substances are
used, handled or stored.
Further guidance on welding is available in the [draft] Code of Practice: Welding and Allied
Processes.
Further information on welding is available in AS 4361.1: Safety in welding and allied processes Fire precautions.
Dust
The work method selected should minimise the creation and release of dust into the air, for
example, silicosis, concrete and lead dust. Traffic management planning should include minimising
vehicle pathways and the use of watering systems to limit airborne dust generation.
8.6
Asbestos
Any construction work, including demolition and refurbishment work that involves the disturbance
of asbestos is defined by the WHS Regulations as high risk construction work and a SWMS,
including a copy of the asbestos register, must be prepared before this work commences.
When carrying out construction work, it is possible that asbestos may be found in the workplace or
in materials being used at the workplace, for example:
asbestos cement products such as roof and wall cladding, bath panels, boiler and
incinerator flues, gutters, rainwater pipes, and water tanks
textiles asbestos felts, ropes, fire blankets and woven asbestos cable sheathing
sprayed insulation materials used for fire-proofing, thermal protection, insulation and
soundproofing

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lagging and other loosely bound insulation materials used in a wide range of electrical,
thermal and acoustic applications
sprayed ('impet') asbestos on structural beams and girders
lagging on pipework, boilers, calorifiers, and heat exchangers, and
asbestos insulating board - ceiling tiles, partition walls, service duct covers, fire breaks,
heater cupboards, door panels, lift shaft lining, fire surrounds, and soffits.
The WHS Regulations require the person with management or control of a workplace to ensure all
asbestos or ACM at the workplace is identified (or assumed present) by a competent person and
an asbestos register is prepared for the workplace. The asbestos register must be kept up-to-date.
Where asbestos is only temporarily in the workplace
In some cases it may not be necessary to include asbestos or ACM that is only temporarily in the
workplace. For example, plant that contains asbestos is being repaired at the workplace but it is
only there for a short period while being repaired, it does not need to be recorded in the asbestos
register because it is only temporarily present at the workplace. However, if plant is often at the
workplace, (for example, where the company specialises in repairing plant that typically contains
asbestos) it would be important to include this in the asbestos register. Note that where work
involving asbestos is carried out, there are requirements to ensure the safety of the worker.
Where there is no asbestos register at the workplace
An asbestos register is not required if a workplace has been constructed after 31 December 2003
or if no asbestos has been identified.
If there is no asbestos register at the workplace but asbestos is identified during the course of any
work being carried out, the person with management or control of the workplace should be advised
who must then identify it (or ensure a competent person identifies it) and prepare a register.
For buildings constructed prior to 31 December 2003, it should be presumed that the building
contains asbestos unless the person is certain that the building is clear of asbestos containing
materials.
As there will be no asbestos register at a domestic premise, the homeowner or landlord must be
advised if asbestos is identified and the amount and quantity should be determined without
disturbing it. A licensed asbestos removalist may be required to remove and dispose of the
asbestos.
Detailed guidance on asbestos registers is available in the Code of Practice: How to Manage and
Control Asbestos in the Workplace.
Demolition and refurbishment
Prior to carrying out any work at a workplace, the person with management of control of a
workplace must review the workplace asbestos register, provide a copy of the asbestos register to
the person who is carrying out the demolition or refurbishment work and identify any asbestos that
may be disturbed and remove it so far as is reasonably practicable.
When planning demolition or refurbishment, the person carrying out the work must review the
asbestos register and should consider:
the location of asbestos in relation to the proposed demolition or refurbishment
if there are inaccessible areas that are likely to contain asbestos
whether asbestos is likely to be damaged or disturbed as a result of the demolition or
refurbishment work if yes, can it be removed safely before work commences?
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type and condition of asbestos present

amount of asbestos present
method of demolition or refurbishment and how will it affect the asbestos.
the nature of the ACM (friable or non-friable), and
how the demolished construction material and waste is to be disposed of including the
loading of materials on trucks and covering of these loads.
Further guidance on managing asbestos when demolition and refurbishment work is being carried
out is available in the Code of Practice: How to Manage and Control Asbestos in the Workplace.
Further guidance on removing asbestos is available in the Code of Practice: How to Safely
Remove Asbestos.
Further guidance on demolition work is available in the [draft] Code of Practice: Demolition Work.
8.7
Confined spaces
Any construction work, including excavation work that involves a confined space is defined by the
commences.
A confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed space that:
is not designed or intended primarily to be occupied or entered by a person
is, or is designed or intended to be, at normal atmospheric pressure while any person is in
the space, and
o presents a risk to health and safety from:
o an atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level
o contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dusts, that may cause injury
from fire or explosion
o harmful concentrations of any airborne contaminants, or
o engulfment.
A confined space does not include a mine shaft or the workings of a mine.
A person has entered a confined space if:
the person's head or upper body is in the confined space or within the boundary of the
confined space, or
the person is in close proximity to an opening into the confined space in such
circumstances that there is a serious risk that the person's head or upper body will
inadvertently enter the confined space.
Regardless of why confined spaces are entered, all hazards must be thoroughly assessed prior to
any persons entering.
The work activities carried out in a confined space can indicate the hazards that may be present.
For example, the use of hazardous chemicals can lead to oxygen deficiency, atmospheric
contaminants or flammable atmospheres.
Some of the hazards that may be associated with confined spaces include ignition hazards from
welding and cutting, atmospheric hazards which cause the environment to be contaminated with
harmful substance or oxygen deficient or oxygen enriched, engulfment hazards from sand and soil
and noise hazards from the operation of equipment and plant.
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To minimise the risks associated with working in a confined space consider:

the nature of the confined space
if a hazard is associated with the level of oxygen or the level of airborne contaminants in
the confined space, any change that may occur in the level of oxygen or the contaminant
the work to be carried out in the confined space, the range of methods by which the work
can be carried out and the proposed method of working
the means of entry to and exit from the confined space, and
the type of emergency procedures required.
Other issues that need to be addressed include confined space entry permits, signage,
communication, atmospheric monitoring and exposure standards, training and instruction,
flammable gases and rescue procedures.
Further guidance about managing risks associated with working in a confined space is available in
the Code of Practice: Confined Spaces.
8.8
Public access and workplace security
Unauthorised entry to a construction workplace can expose persons to a number of hazards that, if
not controlled, could result in fatalities or serious injuries. Risks include electric shock from live
cables, falling into open excavations, suffocation or crushing from collapsing material. Either the
principal contractor of the construction workplace and the person with management or control of
the workplace must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the workplace is secured to
prevent unauthorised access.
In most cases, risks to unauthorised persons entering the workplace can be controlled with
fencing. When fences are installed around the perimeter of the workplace, either permanent or
temporary, it should be maintained until unauthorised entrants are no longer at risk. For example,
locks should be fitted to fencing to prevent unauthorised access and they should be tested
regularly.
When constructing the fence, it must be:
of a suitable height to deter entry, for example 1.8 metres high
constructed from dedicated materials
difficult to climb
difficult to gain access underneath
stable and able to withstand anticipated loads, and
secured by installing gates and joints so there is no weak point for entry.
Unauthorised persons, including children, are more likely to comply with a physical barrier, such as
a fence, than a warning sign. In certain circumstances construction workplaces may require
specific security measures to be implemented which could include the employment of security
officers and the use of electronic swipe cards to prevent unauthorised access.
The security of plant and equipment left unattended at the workplace will also need to be
addressed examples of these would include:
locking electrical switchboards
securing fuels and hazardous substances
locking mobile plant and safe storage of keys, and
safe storage of plant and equipment.

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8.9
Electricity
Before starting construction work, consideration needs to be given to the type of construction work
to be carried out and how electricity will be involved. If electrical work is being carried out, this work
must be carried out in accordance with AS/NZS 3012: Electrical installations Construction and
demolition sites.
When planning how wiring will be installed at a construction workplace, factors to take into account
include:
how construction wiring will be supplied to the workplace
the height of the structure
the use of distribution boards and switchboards
ensuring mechanical protection for the construction wiring
the marking of the construction wiring
the allowable lengths of lead for flexible cords and extension sets and how to protect them
assemblies of portable socket outlets
the lighting, including emergency lighting
any inspection and testing requirements, and
Residual Current Devices (RCDs) fitted for all construction wiring.
Persons carrying out electrical work are required to hold a relevant electrical work licence.
There are hazards associated with working near electric lines and a risk of accidental contact with
the lines occurring (see Section 8.10 of this Code).
Further guidance about electricity in the workplace is available in the [draft] Code of Practice:
Managing Electrical Risks at the Workplace.
8.10
Plant
All construction workplaces will have items plant being used on a daily basis, ranging from handheld tools to powered mobile plant and earthmoving machinery. Detailed guidance on managing
the risks of plant is available in the [draft] Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Plant at the
Workplace
Powered mobile plant
The use of powered mobile plant is defined as being high risk construction work in the WHS
Regulations and as such, requires the preparation of a SWMS before work commences.
The WHS Regulations require the person with management or control of powered mobile plant at a
workplace to, as far as is reasonably practicable:
eliminate the risk of plant overturning, or colliding with a person or thing
eliminate the risk of things falling on the operator or the operator being ejected from the plant
ensure that appropriate operator protective devices are provided, used and maintained
ensure that no person other than the operator rides on the plant without being provide the
same protection as the operator
ensure that the plant has a warning device if there is the possibility of a collision with a
pedestrian.

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Plant operating near overhead electric lines

Any construction work that is carried out on or near energised electrical installations or services is
defined by the WHS Regulations as high risk construction work and a SWMS must be prepared
before this work commences.
If plant comes into contact with an overhead or underground electric line it may become electrified
and pose a serious risk to the operator and any persons nearby. In addition to direct electric shock
and possible electrocution, contact with electric lines can lead to a variety of hazardous conditions
including fire, unpredictable cable whiplash and the electrifying of other objects (for example, signs,
poles, surrounding earth, trees or branches).
Specific risk control measures must be implemented when work is done in the vicinity of electric
lines whether they are overhead or underground. The relevant authority should be consulted and
appropriate risk controls implemented.
When excavators, other earthmoving machinery, or similar items of plant are operated near
overhead electric lines, a thorough examination of the approaches and surroundings of the
workplace must be carried out before taking the plant to the workplace and setting it up. This
examination will determine whether precautions need to be taken to prevent any part of the plant or
any load carried on it from coming too close or contacting overhead electric lines:
Guarding plant
Wherever practical, guarding should be provided on moving parts of plant to minimise the risk of
injury. Guards should be designed to help prevent the following type of injuries:
cutting
amputation injuries
injuries from projectiles, and
being struck by rotating parts.
Guards supplied by the plant manufacturer should be used with the plant in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions and should not be removed. Manufacturers of plant need to supply
comprehensive information on the safe use of the guard and workers need to be provided with the
information. Some items of plant used on construction workplaces that require guarding include the
following:
Portable concrete mixers -fixed guards over gear or belt type drive systems.
Circular saws full retractable guards.
Brick cutting machines generally a minimum 180 degree guard over the top half of the
blade.
Concrete cutting saws generally a minimum 180 degree guard that can be partially
rotated around the cutting blade and locked in position.
Brick elevators - guarding over drive systems.
Angle grinders - generally a minimum 180 degree guard that can be partially rotated around
the cutting blade and locked in position. Note: where tungsten tipped multi cutter blades
are used on angle grinders a full guard that requires constant hand pressure to disengage
is to be used (that is, similar to guarding required on circular saws).
Lifts and hoists
Lifts and hoists are registrable plant under Schedule 5 of the WHS Regulations.

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When construction work is being performed on high rise projects consideration needs to be given
to how persons and materials will be able to access all levels. The height of the structure will
determine what type of hoist may be considered for the project.
Things to consider when selecting a hoist:
height of the structure
expected number of persons at the workplace
type of materials requiring transport, and
workplace access.
Lifts
Persons required to work on and use lifts are to ensure safe working conditions and practices
(supported by training) for those responsible for, and involved in, new lift installations and new
construction.
Further information on the safety of persons when entering and leaving the work area on a lift
installation and while working there and the safety of others in the vicinity, whether working or not,
who may be endangered by the action of those working on lifts is available in Information is
available in AS/NZS 4431: Guidelines for safe working on new lift installations in new
constructions.
Hoists
Persons required to work on and use hoists are to ensure safe working provisions and practices
(supported by training) for those responsible for, and involved in, hoist installations. Further
information is available in AS 1418.16: Cranes (including hoists and winches) - Mast climbing work
platforms.
Builders hoists
When installing or using any type of hoist, documentation should be available showing the hoist is
all in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
Further information on the planning, selection, siting, erection and dismantling, personnel,
maintenance, inspection and repair of hoists is available in AS 2550.7: The safe use of builders'
hoists and associated equipment.
Plant not in use
Hazards and risks can present themselves to workers and others when plant is not stored,
secured, isolated or positioned appropriately at a construction workplace. Examples of practices
where plant is left in an unsecure and unsafe state include:
Ignition keys being left in mobile plant.
Energy sources not locked and secured when the workplace is closed.
Tools and Equipment left unattended in access ways.
Mobile plant parked in emergency access areas.
Control measures to ensure that plant is left in a safe and secure condition could include:
designated and fenced areas for mobile plant parking
locks and isolation procedures
secure storage boxes and shelving for hand held tools and electrical leads
ventilation systems for areas where substances are stored, and
barricades and signage installed and permit to work systems implemented.

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8.11
Noise
A person conducting a business or undertaking must prevent workers from being exposed to noise
levels that exceed the exposure standard. Over exposure can result in reduced or permanent loss
of hearing.
Before work commences, noise sources and ways to eliminate or reduce exposure to excessive
noise need to be identified. For example, a supplier or plant operator can help to identify ways to
limit worker noise exposure both inside and outside the plant.
Examples of noise control measures include:
use an alternative, quieter working method or equipment to minimise the noise
(substitution)
isolate workers and other persons from the noise source by relocating or enclosing noisy
equipment (isolation)
install silencers on intake and exhaust systems to minimise noise (engineering)
establish flexible working hours and exclusion zones to minimise exposure to a particular
noise source (administrative), and
provide workers with personal hearing protection such as ear plugs, ear canal caps, ear
muffs, and hearing protective helmets (PPE).
Further guidance about managing risks associated with noise is available in the Code of Practice:
Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work.
8.12
Steel construction
Steel construction is any work to erect assembled portions and single components of structural
steel, such as:
columns
beams
bracing
rafters
purlins
girts
bridging and fly bracing
trusses, and
other related steelwork for example, free standing structures.
Persons involved in the erection of structural steel components are required to hold a high risk
work licence as a rigger.
Any construction work that involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres is defined by the
commences.
Factors which can cause a person to fall include:
moving from one surface to another
the inability of a surface to support a load
openings or holes not identified or protected
open edges that are not protected by way of edge protection
slippery surfaces
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equipment, tools or rubbish obstructing work areas

incorrect or inappropriate use of ladders
struck by a moving or falling objects, and
travel restraint systems and devices not being provided or not used correctly.
Section 8.1 of this Code provides further guidance on managing fall risks.
8.13
Concrete placing
Concrete placing equipment can have a high level of risk and therefore it is extremely important to
use plant that is manufactured and maintained to high standards. Concrete placement units with
delivery booms, both vehicle and static mounted, must be both design and item registered under
Schedule 6 of the WHS Regulations.
The safe operation of concrete placing equipment requires high levels of competence and
equipment preparation. Examples of hazards and risks associated with concrete placing operations
include:
Overturning of mobile concrete placement booms due to ground stability and short legging.
Contact with moving parts.
Contact with overhead electric lines.
Concrete contacting workers body parts.
Collapse of concrete placement booms.
Rupture of concrete placement lines.
Hose whip from line blockages.
Manual handling of hose and pipes.
When setting up for concrete pumping operations the following issues should be addressed:
The plant is set-up, operated and maintained as per the manufacturers instructions.
The pumping unit is set up and managed so that it can operate safely if in the vicinity of
overhead electric lines or other hazardous items.
The plant is set up on firm and level ground with timber or pads under outrigger feet.
The outriggers feet are set up a safe distance from excavations and soft ground.
Outriggers are always fully extended unless the boom manufacturer states short legging is
permitted and you have followed the manufacturers instructions.
Suitable PPE is worn (for example, safety glasses, gloves, footwear and hearing
protection).
A person with management or control of a concrete pump must ensure that the pump is:
provided with adequate guarding and interlocks to eliminate, so far as is reasonably
practicable, the risk of injury from entanglement, crushing or amputation as a result of
contact with any moving parts in the concrete delivery hopper
provided with concrete delivery pipes and connecting clamps that are able to withstand the
pressures applied by the concrete pumping operation without failing
subjected to regular thickness inspection, and
operated in a manner that ensures that the risks to the operator of the unit and other
persons at or near the workplace that arise from systems of work and the environment in
which the unit is used are eliminated, so far as is reasonably practicable, or if it is not
reasonably practicable to eliminate the risks, minimised so far as is reasonably practicable.
A person with management or control of a concrete placement boom should ensure that it:

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is installed and operated in a manner that will prevent overturning or collapse of the
concrete placement boom
operated in a manner that prevents rapid or uncontrolled movement of concrete delivery
pipes and hoses that could result in injury
receives an annual safety inspection by a competent person, and
receives a major inspection by a competent person at intervals not exceeding 6 years. The
major inspection is to include items on the plant inspected during the annual inspection and
all other critical safety components of the placement boom and its supporting structure.
Further information on concrete placing equipment is available in AS 2550.15: Cranes Safe use Part 15: Concrete placing equipment.
8.14
Safety signage
Safety signs can be displayed to warn of a particular hazard or state the responsibilities of a
particular person. The sign must be located next to the hazard and clearly visible to a person
approaching the hazard.
The number of signs needed depends on the size and complexity of the workplace. Signs should
indicate the nature of the workplace and that unauthorised entry to the workplace is not allowed.
The principal contractor must also install signs that are clearly visible from outside the workplace
that shows their name and telephone contact numbers (including an after-hours telephone
number) and shows the location of the project office.
Other signs are required in most workplaces, including workplaces where construction takes place.
These signs can indicate:
the location of first aid equipment and facilities and fire extinguishing equipment
the types and locations of hazardous substances and/or dangerous goods
where personal protective equipment, such as head and foot protection, must be worn, and
the location of and direction to the workplace amenities.
Signage is an administrative control measure and should not be relied on as the sole control for a
risk. Further information about signs is available in AS 1319: Safety signs for the occupational
environment.

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APPENDIX A DEFINITIONS
Airborne
contaminant
Asbestos
Asbestos
containing
material (ACM)
Competent
person
A contaminant in the form of a fume, mist, gas, vapour or dust and includes
microorganisms.
The asbestiform varieties of mineral silicates belonging to the serpentine or
amphibole groups of rock forming minerals including actinolite asbestos,
grunerite (or amosite) asbestos (brown), anthophyllite asbestos, chrysotile
asbestos (white), crocidolite asbestos (blue), and tremolite asbestos.
Any material or thing that, as a part of its design, contains asbestos.
A person who has acquired through training, qualification or experience the
knowledge and skills to carry out the task.
Note: for certain activities, specific additional competencies are required refer to Chapter 1 of
the WHS Regulations.
Construction
project
Demolition work
Design
Designer
Earthmoving
machinery
Essential
services
Falsework
Formwork
A project that involves construction work, if the cost of the construction work
is $250 000 or more
Any work to demolish or dismantle a structure, or a part of a structure that is
load bearing or otherwise related to the physical integrity of the structure.
Demolition work does not include:
a) formwork, falsework, scaffolding or other structures designed or used to
provide support, access or containment during construction work; or
b) the removal of power poles or telecommunication poles or similar
structures.
In relation to a structure, plant or substance includes:
a) design of all or part of the structure, and
b) to redesign or modify a design.
A person who conducts a business or undertaking that designs a structure,
plant or substance that is to be used as, or at a workplace, or could
reasonably be expected to be used as, or at a workplace.
Operator controlled plant used to excavate, load, transport, compact or
spread earth, overburden, rubble, spoil, aggregate or similar material, but
does not include a tractor or industrial lift truck.
Services that supply:
(a) gas, water, sewerage, telecommunications, electricity and similar
services; or
(b) chemicals, fuel and refrigerant in pipes or lines.
Means any temporary structure that is used to support a permanent structure,
material, plant, equipment and personnel until the construction of the
permanent structure has advanced to the stage that it is self-supporting.
A temporary structural support system referred to as falsework includes
the foundations, footings and all structural members supporting the
permanent structural elements.
Falsework is commonly used to support spanning or arched structures,
such as bridges, while they are being constructed.
The temporary support structures for formwork (see below) used to mould
concrete to form a desired shape and the scaffolding that might also give
workers access to the structure being constructed is sometimes referred to
as falsework.
Means the surface, support and framing used to define the shape of concrete
until it is self-supporting.
Formwork includes the forms on which the concrete is poured, the
supports which carry the forms and the concrete, the bracing which may be

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General
construction
induction training
Hazard
Lift
Notifiable
incident
Operator
protective device
Plant
Powered mobile
plant
Principal
Contractor
Registrable plant
Risk control
Safe design
Scaffold
Tilt-Up
Underground
essential
services
Underground
essential
services
information
added to ensure stability, as well as the foundations and footings.

When complete, the formwork is sometimes referred to as the formwork
assembly.
The formwork supports, bracing, foundations and footings are sometimes
known as falsework (see above).
Training delivered in Australia by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
for the specified unit of competency for general construction induction
training.
A situation or thing that has the potential to harm a person.
Permanent plant or plant intended to be permanently installed in or attached
to a building or structure in which people, goods or materials may be raised
or lowered within a car or cage, or on a platform and the movement of which
is restricted by a guide or guides and includes a chairlift, escalator, moving
walk and stairway lift and any supporting structure, machinery, equipment,
gear, lift well, enclosures and entrances.
Means the death of a person; or a serious injury or illness of a person; or a
dangerous incident.
A roll-over protective structure, falling object protective structure, operator
restraining device and seat belt.
Includes any machinery, equipment, appliance, container, implement and
tool, and includes any component or anything fitted or connected to any of
those things.
Plant that is provided with some form of self-propulsion that is ordinarily
under the direct control of an operator.
Either:
the person conducting a business or undertaking that commissions the
construction project, or
a person conducting a business or undertaking that is engaged by the
person who commissions the construction project to be the principal
contractor and is authorised to have management or control of the workplace.
Plant that requires design or item registration under Schedule 5 of the WHS
Regulations.
A measure implemented to eliminate or minimise the risk to health and safety.
The integration of hazard identification and risk assessment methods early in
the design process to eliminate or minimise the risks of injury throughout the
life of the product being designed. It encompasses all design including
facilities, hardware, systems, equipment, products, tooling, materials, energy
controls, layout, and configuration.
A temporary structure specifically erected to support access or working
platforms.
Relates to a method where a precast concrete element is cast in and lifted
from a horizontal position to a vertical position by rotation about one edge
and, if necessary, stabilised by bracing members until incorporated into the
final structure.
Essential services that use pipes, cables other associated plant located
underground.
In relation to proposed excavation work, means the following information
relating to underground essential services that may be affected by the
excavation:
(a) the essential services that may be affected
(b) the location, including the depth, of any pipes, cables or other plant

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associated with the affected essential services, and

(c) any conditions on the proposed excavation work.

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APPENDIX B TECHNICAL STANDARDS AND OTHER REFERENCES

Note: this list is not exhaustive.
Standard
Title
AS 1012 (set)
AS 1111
AS 1170.0
AS 1170.1
AS 1170.2
AS 1170.4
AS 1252
AS 1319
AS 1379
AS 1418 (set)
AS 1554.1
AS/NZS 1576 (set)
AS 1674.1
AS/NZS 1715
AS/NZS 1716
AS/NZS 1891.1
AS/NZS 1891.4
AS 1940
AS 2001.2.4
Methods of testing concrete

ISO metric hexagon bolts and screws
Structural design actions General principles
Structural design actionsPermanent, imposed and other actions
Structural design actionsWind actions
Structural design actions Earthquake actions in Australia
High strength steel bolts with associated nuts and washers for structural engineering
Safety signs for the occupational environment
Specification and supply of concrete
Cranes, hoists and winches
Structural steel welding welding of steel structures
Scaffolding - General requirements
Guide to lead paint management-Industrial applications
Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment
Respiratory protective devices
Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices - Harnesses and ancillary equipment
Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices - Selection, use and maintenance
The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids
Methods of test for textiles - Physical tests - Determination of bursting pressure of
textile fabrics - Hydraulic diaphragm method
Earth moving machinery Protective structures General
Safe use of lasers in the building and construction industry
Cranes, hoists and winches - Safe use - General requirements
Cranes, hoists and winches Safe use Tower Cranes
Cranes, hoists and winches Safe use Mobile Cranes
Cranes - Safe use - Builders' hoists and associated equipment
Cranes, hoists and winches Safe use Mobile elevating work platforms
Cranes - Safe use - Concrete placing equipment
The demolition of structures
Confined spaces
Electrical installations Construction and demolition sites
Concrete structures
Formwork for concrete
Formwork for concrete Commentary
Liquid membrane-forming curing compounds for concrete
Guidelines for the erection of building steelwork
Prefabricated concrete elements General Requirements
Prefabricated concrete elements Building Construction
Steel structures
Safety in welding and allied processes - Fire precautions
Guidelines for safe working on new lift installations in new constructions
AS 2294
AS 2397
AS 2550.1
AS 2550.4
AS 2550.5
AS 2550.7
AS 2550.10
AS 2550.15
AS 2601
AS 2865
AS/NZS 3012
AS 3600
AS 3610
AS 3610 (Sup 2)
AS 3799
AS 3828
AS 3850.1
AS 3850.2
AS 4100
AS 4361.1
AS/NZS 4431

SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 58 OF 80
Standard
Title
AS/NZS 4576
AS 4744.1
AS 4991
AS 5047
Guidelines for scaffolding

Steel shoring and trench lining Design
Lifting devices
Hydraulic shoring and trench lining equipment.
Other References
Australian Code for the Transport of Explosives by Road and Rail (3rd edition), Commonwealth of
Australia 2009
Building Code of Australia, Australian Building Codes Board 2010
Workplace Exposure Standards for Airborne Contaminants, Safe Work Australia

SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 59 OF 80
APPENDIX C EXAMPLES OF THE INTERACTION BETWEEN DUTY HOLDERS

Example 1 - Construction Work that is not a Construction Project
Person
commissioning the
construction work
(Not a PCBU)
Where the person is not a

PCBU, they have no
duties under the WHS Act.
Contractor
Subcontractor

Person
commissioning
the construction
work
(Is a PCBU)
In addition to any specific duties relevant to a PCBU

commissioning construction work under the WHS Act or
Regulation, the PCBU may also have the following WHS
duties:
If they undertake any construction work then they will have
the WHS duties of a contractor, and
If they have management or control of the construction
workplace then they will have a duty to ensure the health
and safety of all workers (including contractors and
subcontractors) and other persons arising from the
construction work carried out at the construction
workplace.
A contractor will have the duty to ensure the health and safety of all workers (including subcontractors) and other
persons arising from construction work carried out by the contractor. In addition:
If the contractor has been delegated management and control of the construction workplace they will have the
duty to ensure the health and safety of all workers (including contractors and subcontractors) and other
persons arising from the construction work carried out at the construction workplace, and
If the contractor is the sole contractor engaged by a person commissioning construction work who is not a PCBU
they will have the duty to ensure the health and safety of all workers (including subcontractors) and other
persons arising from the construction work carried out at the construction workplace.
A subcontractor will have the duty to ensure the health and safety of all workers (including any further
subcontractors) and other persons arising from construction work carried out by the subcontractor.
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 60 OF 80
Example 2 - Construction Work that is a Construction Project

Person
commissioning the
construction work
(Not a PCBU)
Where the person is not a

PCBU, they have no
duties under the WHS
Act.
Principal
Contractor
Contractor
Subcontractor

Person
commissioning
the construction
work
(Is a PCBU)
In addition to any specific duties relevant to a PCBU

commissioning construction work under the WHS Act or
Regulation, the PCBU may also have the following WHS
duties:
If they undertake any construction work then they will have
the WHS duties of a contractor, and
If they do not appoint a PCBU as principal contractor with
management and control of the construction project then
the client will have the WHS duties of the principal
contractor.
A principal contractor has a duty to ensure the health and safety of all workers (including contractors and
subcontractors) and other persons arising from the construction work carried out at or in the vicinity of the
construction project.
If the person commissioning construction work is not a PCBU and:
a contractor has management and control of the construction project then the contractor is the principal
contractor, or
a contractor is the sole contractor engaged by the person commissioning construction work t then the contractor
is the principal contractor.
A contractor has a duty to ensure the health and safety of all workers (including subcontractors) and other
persons arising from the construction work carried out by the contractor.
A subcontractor has a duty to ensure the health and safety of all workers (including any further subcontractors)
and other persons arising from the construction work carried out by the subcontractor.
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 61 OF 80
APPENDIX D SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT TEMPLATE

Recommended steps for filling out the SWMS template
1. Consult with relevant workers, contractors and HSRs the high risk construction work, the activities involved, and associated hazards, risks and controls.
2. In the What is the high risk construction work? column, identify the high risk construction work for the construction work activity that will be undertaken.
3. In the What are the hazards and risks? column, list the hazards and risks for each high risk construction work activity.
4. Identify the workplace circumstances that may affect the way in the high risk construction work will be done.
Examples of workplace circumstances that may impact on the hazards and risks include:
information relating to the design of the structure, the workplace (e.g. location, access, transport), and information contained in the WHS Management Plan
information on any essential services located on or near the workplace
confirmation that the regulator has been advised of any notifiable work (e.g. demolition work involving explosives), and
work methods and plant to be used.
5. In the How will the hazards and risks be controlled? column, select an appropriate control or combination of controls by working through the hierarchy of
controls. It is important that you are able to justify why the selected risk control measure is reasonably practicable for the specific workplace.
Selecting risk controls
1. Eliminate any risk to health or safety associated with construction work by removing the hazard, such as stop using a hazardous chemical.
2. Minimise the risk to health or safety by using any one or any combination of the following controls:
Substitute the hazard, such as by using a new activity, procedure, item of plant, process or chemical.
Isolate persons from the hazard, such as by barriers, fencing or guardrails.
Use engineering controls, such as mechanical or electrical devices.
3. Use administrative controls, such as changing the way the work is done.
4. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety spectacles, ear muffs/plugs, and hard hats.
SWMS compliance (information, monitoring and review)
1. Brief each team member on this SWMS before commencing work. Ensure team knows work is to stop if the SWMS is not followed.
2. Observe the work being carried out and monitor compliance with the SWMS. Review risk controls regularly:
before a change occurs to the work itself, the system of work or the work location
if a new hazard associated with the work is identified
when new or additional information about the hazard becomes available
when a notifiable incident occurs in relation to the work
when risk controls are inadequate or the SWMS is not being followed.
In all of the above situations stop the work, review the SWMS, adjust as required and re-brief the team.
3. Retain all versions of the SWMS in a readily available location for the duration of the high risk construction work and for at least 2 years after a notifiable incident
occurs.
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 62 OF 80
APPENDIX D SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT TEMPLATE

[PCBU name, ABN, Office Address and Phone]
Principal Contractor (PC)
Work Activity:
[Job description]
Work Location:
High Risk Construction Work:
[Name, ABN, Office Address]
[list work from WHS Regulations]
Works Manager:
Contact Phone:
Have workers been consulted

about the SWMS?
Person Responsible for
ensuring compliance with SWMS
Date SWMS Provided to PC:
Person(s) Responsible for

reviewing the SWMS
Last SWMS Review Date:
Date received:
Signature:
What is the activity and high

risk construction work?
What are the hazards and risks?

(What is the problem?)
How will the hazards and risks be controlled?

(Describe the control measures and how they will be used)
Think about the workplace and each stage of the work, including preparation and clean-up.
Break the job down into logical work
or activity groups. Where it makes
sense to address a range of activities
with one control measure, group them
into one entry on the SWMS.
Identify the hazards and risks that may cause harm to workers
or the public. Consider the environment, equipment, the work
methods, other contractors/workers, etc.

Describe what will be done to control the risk. What will you do to make the activity as
safe as possible? Start by trying to eliminate the risk, and then move down the hierarchy
of controls.
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 63 OF 80
APPENDIX E SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT EXAMPLE

ABC Bricklaying [ABN]
123 Mortar Street
Standard Course ACT 2600
Ph: (02) 1234 5678
Principal Contractor (PC)
XYZ Contracting Services

8910 Management Road
Projectville ACT 2666
Ph. (02) 9876 5432
Work Location:
Potters Hut
Work Activity:
Bricklaying
High Risk Construction Work:
Powered mobile plant
Brick Street
In or adjacent to a road, that is in use by traffic
Pottery ACT 2600
Falls of more than 2 metres
Energised electrical installations
Works Manager:
Fred Bloggs
Structural collapse
Contact Phone:
0400 111 111
Have workers been consulted

about the SWMS?
Yes
Person Responsible for

ensuring compliance with SWMS
Joe Bloggs
Leading Hand
Date SWMS Provided to PC:
5 January 2012
Person(s) Responsible for

reviewing the SWMS
Fred Bloggs
Works Manager
Last SWMS Review Date:
12 January 2012
Signature:
Date received:

How will hazards and risks be controlled?
Delivery of bricks
Movement of powered
mobile plant.
Work in or adjacent to a
road, railway, shipping lane
or other traffic corridor that is
in use by traffic other than
Workers being struck by powered mobile plant.

including delivery vehicle and forklift used for
unloading.
Workers being struck by vehicles in adjacent road
or traffic corridor.
Vehicles in adjacent road or traffic corridor being
struck by falling objects.
Prepare and implement workplace traffic management plan and make available to
workers:
Exclusion zone for mobile plant to be clearly identified (signage and

barricades as per site plan) and controlled during vehicle loading/unloading
operations.
Dedicated, trained road traffic controller(s) to direct traffic entering and

leaving site and control traffic (pedestrian and vehicle) on adjacent

SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 64 OF 80

pedestrians.
Moving bricks by hand over long distances.
Working at ground level
Movement of powered mobile

plant.
Work that is carried out near

a trench with an excavated
depth greater than 1.5
metres.
Working above ground
A risk of a person falling

more than 2 metres.
Construction work that is

carried out on or near
energised electrical
installations or services.
Being struck by powered mobile plant.

Falls into excavations.
Worker falling from height.

Worker coming in contact with and/or receiving
electric shock from overhead electric lines.
Plant/equipment contacting overhead electric
lines.
pedestrian footpaths and roadways.

Use portable traffic signals and/or temporary safety barriers to direct/control
traffic flow as required.
Brick delivery vehicle to be unloaded on-site (not from public roadway).
Place brick pallets adjacent to bricklaying work areas (inside workplace boundaries
and clear of workplace traffic routes).
Powered mobile plant to travel on planned and controlled workplace traffic routes.
Where powered mobile plant are required to travel outside of planned and controlled
routes, a dedicated, trained road traffic controller is to control plant movement.
Powered mobile plant and materials are not to be operated or stored within 2 metres
of an open trench.
For bricklaying activity where there is a risk of a person or object falling less than 2
metres, use fully decked heavy duty frame trestle scaffolds, with bay lengths of 1.8
metres or less.
For bricklaying activity where there is a risk of a person or object falling greater than
2 metres, use heavy duty modular scaffolds with brick-guards.
Where scaffolds are greater than 4 metres in height, scaffold construction is to be
completed and certified by the licensed scaffolder.
For all scaffolds:
Platforms are not to be loaded with more than 100 bricks per bay (or 400 kg
of blocks).
No modular scaffold alterations are to be undertaken except by licensed

scaffolder.
Access to scaffold platforms is to be via stairs or ladder towers.

The exclusion zones and approach distances to overhead electric lines at the
locations and distances specified on the site plan are to clearly identifiable and

SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 65 OF 80

Constructing brick walls
Structural alterations or
repairs that require
temporary support to prevent
collapse.
Work completion
A risk of a person falling

more than 2 metres.
Worker injured by structural collapse before

completion & curing.
Injuries to public from unauthorised access to

workplace (e.g. falls greater than 2 metres,
structural collapse).

enforced by a dedicated controller.
Brace all constructed brisk walls in accordance with Company Instruction Sheet #3.
All scaffolding and site fencing is secure and serviceable. All entry and exists must
be locked at the end of each day.
Structural alterations or
repairs that require
temporary support to prevent
collapse.

SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 66 OF 80
APPENDIX F HIGH RISK CONSTRUCTION WORK

Hazard
Asbestos
Chemical, fuel or
refrigerant lines
Confined spaces
High risk
construction work
Any construction work
that involves, or is likely
to involve, the
disturbance of asbestos.

that is carried out on or
near chemical, fuel or
refrigerant lines.

that involves a confined
space

Requirements and Risks

Note: This is not a definitive list
Part 7.3 of the WHS Regulations sets out specific
requirements for asbestos management and removal,
including:
asbestos registers for buildings
demolition work
removal, and
licensing.
The main risk is for people to be exposed to airborne
asbestos particles.
The WHS Regulations set out specific requirements for:
Hazardous chemicals Chapter 7, and
Major Hazard Facilities (MHFs) Chapter 8.
The main risk is from an unexpected release of chemicals,
fuel or refrigerant resulting in, for example, the exposure of
persons to fire or explosion.
Any work that might impact on chemical, fuel or refrigerant
lines will need to planned and undertaken safely and avoid
interfering with or damaging the lines.
requirements for confined spaces, including for entry permits
and specific risks.
Entry to confined spaces must be controlled to prevent
workers being exposed to hazardous chemicals and other
hazards that may be present.
Signage should be used to identify a confined space.
Codes and Standards

Codes of Practice:
How to Manage and Control Asbestos in the
Workplace
How to Safely Remove Asbestos
Demolition Work
Technical Standards:
Workplace Exposure Standards for Airborne
Contaminants.
Codes of Practice:
Chemicals Risk Management
Contaminants.
Code of Practice:
Confined Spaces
AS 2865: Confined spaces
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 67 OF 80
Hazard
Contaminated or
flammable
atmospheres
Demolition
Diving
High risk
construction work
that is carried out in an
area that may have a
contaminated or
flammable atmosphere.
The demolition of an
element of a structure
that is load-bearing or
related to the physical
integrity of the structure.

that involves diving.

The WHS Regulations set out specific requirements for:
Confined spaces Part 4.3, and
Hazardous chemicals Chapter 7.
The main risk is from an accidental or unexpected exposure
of persons to contaminated or flammable atmospheres or
ignition of flammable materials.
Part 4.5A of the WHS Regulations set out specific
requirements for the notification of demolition work involving:
the demolition of a structure that is at least 6 metres in
height
demolition work involving load shifting machinery on a
suspended floor
demolition work involving explosives.
The main risk is an unexpected collapse of part or all the
structure or structures being demolished.
Part 7.3 of the WHS Regulations also sets out specific
requirements for asbestos management and removal (see
above).
requirements for diving work.
A key risk is for a person to drown as a result of, for example,
a lack of fitness, limited competency and/or planning, or
equipment failure.
Drowning in water or
other liquid

that is carried out in or
near water or other liquid
that involves a risk of
drowning.

A key risk when working on, in or near water or other liquid is

for a person to drown.
Where the liquid is a chemical then exposure to hazardous
chemicals can also occur.
Codes and Standards

Codes of Practice:
Confined Spaces
Contaminants.
Code of Practice:
Demolition Work
How to Manage and Control Asbestos in the
Workplace
How to Safely Remove Asbestos
AS 2601: The demolition of structures
Code of Practice:
Diving.
AS 2299.1: Occupational diving operations Standard operational practice
Codes of Practice:
Diving
Excavation Work
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 68 OF 80
Hazard
Energised electrical
installations or
services
Excavations
Explosives
High risk
construction work
near energised electrical
installations or services.

that involves a shaft or
trench with an excavated
depth greater than 1.5
metres or a tunnel.

that involves the use of
explosives.


requirements for electrical work including:
electrical installation and equipment
electrical equipment on construction workplaces
work on energised electrical equipment
residual current devices (RCDs), and
overhead electric lines.
Electrical work at a construction workplace must comply with
AS/NZS 3012: Electrical installations Construction and
demolition sites.
The main risk is contact with an energised electrical circuit
resulting in electric shock, burns or other injury.
Part 6.3.8 to 6.3.11 of the WHS Regulations set out specific
requirements for excavation work involving:
underground essential services, and
trenches.
The WHS regulations require the risks to be managed,
including the main risk of an unexpected ground collapse (of
part or all the excavation) onto persons working in or around
the excavation. Other risks to be managed include falls into
excavations, falling objects and airborne contaminants.
All possession, storage, handling and use of explosives must
be carried out in compliance with the relevant dangerous
substances/goods or explosives legislation applicable in your
state or territory.
The transport of explosives must be in accordance with the
Australian Code for the Transport of Explosives by Road and
Rail.
Explosives can only be used by a competent person who is
licensed in the use of explosives
Explosives may be used, for example, to assist the
excavation of rock or for special authorised demolition
Codes and Standards

Codes of Practice:
Managing Risks with Electrical Work
Managing risks when working in the vicinity
of overhead electric lines, exposed
energised parts and underground electrical
services
Inspecting, Testing and Tagging Electrical
Equipment
AS/NZS 3012: Electrical installations
Construction and demolition sites
Code of Practice:
Excavation Work
AS 2294: Earth moving machinery
Protective structures - General
AS 4744.1: Steel shoring and trench lining
Design
AS 5047: Hydraulic shoring and trench
lining equipment
Codes of Practice:
Demolition Work
Excavation Work
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 69 OF 80
Hazard
Falls
Powered mobile
plant
High risk
construction work

that involves a risk of a
person falling more than
2 metres.

that is carried out at a
workplace in which there
is any movement of
powered mobile plant.

methods.
The main risk relates to a person being impacted by the
explosive force and/or materials ejected from the explosion.
requirements for falls including:
Falls of persons, and
Fall of objects.
As set out in the relevant codes of practice, the hierarchy of
fall controls should be applied for high risk construction work.
Any fall of a person, even at ground level, can lead to serious
injury and good housekeeping and waste management can
assist in preventing slips and trips.
There is also the risk of falling objects and providing
adequate controls for the workplace and the public.
Part 5.1, Subdivision 3 of the WHS Regulations set out
specific requirements for mobile plant including:
powered mobile plant
earthmoving machinery
industrial lift trucks
cranes, and
plant that lifts or suspends loads (e.g. lifts and hoists).
Risks for powered mobile plant include overturning, hitting or
being hit by moving or falling objects, ejection of operator, or
being run over.
Plant not-in-use must be stored and secured to prevent
accidental use or misuse.
NOGO zone encroachment

Codes and Standards
Codes of Practice:
How to Prevent Falls in Workplaces
Falls - Housing Construction
AS/NZS 1891 (set)
Codes of Practice:
Traffic Management for Construction Work
Managing the Risk of Plant in the
Workplace
Cranes
Industrial Lift Trucks
Excavation Work
Demolition Work.
AS/NZS 4431: Guidelines for safe working
on new lift installations in new constructions
AS 1418.16: Cranes (including hoists and
winches) - Mast climbing work platforms
AS2550.7: Cranes Safe Use - Builders'
hoists and associated equipment.
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 70 OF 80
Hazard
Pressurised gas
distribution mains or
piping
Structural alterations
or repairs
High risk
construction work
near pressurised gas
distribution mains or
piping.
that involves structural
alterations or repairs that
require temporary support
to prevent collapse.
Telecommunication
towers

that involves a
telecommunication tower.
Temperature artificial extremes

that is carried out in an
area in which there are
artificial extremes of
temperature.
that involves tilt-up or
precast concrete.
Tilt-up and precast

concrete
Traffic corridor road, railway,

shipping lane or

that is carried out on, in
or adjacent to a road,


The main risk is from an unexpected release of gas from the
pressurised lines.
Any work that might impact on the pressurised lines will need
to planned and undertaken safely and avoid interfering with
or damaging the lines.
Temporary support may include propping, scaffolding or
falsework.
The main risk is from an unexpected collapse of part or all
the structure. Work that will impact on the load bearing
capacity of a structural member may also include or be
similar to demolition work.
Codes and Standards

Codes of Practice:
Excavation Work
Demolition Work
Codes of Practice:
Scaffolds
Formwork and Falsework
Demolition Work
Safe Design of Buildings and Structures
The main risk arises from working at height and possible falls
of people or objects (see Falls above).
There may also be exposures to electrical energy or types of
radiation, such as microwaves.
The main risk arises from persons being exposed to
extremes of temperature, resulting in possible heat stress or
hypothermia.
Codes of Practice:
How to Prevent Falls at Workplaces
The main risk arises from the lifting and stabilising of large,
heavy concrete panels and the possibility that they will
become unstable and fall.
Codes of Practice:
Tilt-up and Precast Concrete in Building
Construction
Cranes
The main risks arise from the workplace being adjacent to

vehicles passing and the interaction of workers with these
vehicles.
Codes of Practice:
Managing the Work Environment and
Facilities
AS 3850.1 Precast concrete elements
general requirements
AS 3850.2 Precast concrete elements
building construction
Codes of Practice:
Traffic Management for Construction Work
Managing the Risk of Plant in the
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 71 OF 80
Hazard
other in use
High risk
construction work
railway, shipping lane or
other traffic corridor that
is in use by traffic other
than pedestrians.

Codes and Standards
Workplace
Excavation Work
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 72 OF 80
APPENDIX G WHS MANAGEMENT PLAN CONTENT

The level of detail include in a WHS management plan required will depend on how complex the
workplace is (in particular the number of contractors at the workplace at any one time) and the
risks involved in the work.
Examples of information recommended for inclusion in the WHS management plan are:
the details of the key persons involved (for example, the client, principal contractor)
the details of the construction project (for example, location or locations, anticipated project
start and duration, and the works to be undertaken)
the management and monitoring of contractors and subcontractors including how the
principal contractor intends to implement and ensure compliance with the plan, for example,
checking on the performance of contractors and subcontractors and how non-compliance
will be handled
the arrangements to prepare, collect and assess, monitor and review safe work method
statements, including the communication of safe work method statements
the provision, maintenance and management of housekeeping, facilities and a safe and
healthy work environment
the management of falls and fallings objects and any high risk construction work that will
take place on the project
the provision and maintenance of a hazardous substances register, safety data sheets, and
hazardous substances storage
the safe use and storage of plant
the development of a construction project traffic management plan
obtaining and providing essential services information
workplace security and public safety
ensuring that workers have appropriate licenses and training to undertake the work
monitoring the implementation of and compliance with the plan across the project, and
updating the plan over the course of the project.
The WHS management plan may also include the following information:
client details, for example: name, ABN (if the client is a person conducting a business or
undertaking), and their address
principal contractor details, for example:
o the type of appointment
automatic appointment only where the construction project involves the
construction of a residential premises for a client who is an individual, not a
person conducting a business or undertaking, or
all other construction projects
o the person accepting the duties of the principal contractors name, address and
ABN, and
o the management structure for the project
construction project details, for example:
o address of the workplace
o anticipated start and end date, and
o a brief description of the type of construction work that the WHS management plan
will cover.
People with health and safety responsibilities

SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 73 OF 80
Persons at the workplace whose positions or roles involve specific health and safety
responsibilities will need to be identified.
For example, people who should be listed include WHS managers, first aid officers and project
managers. Their responsibilities should be briefly described. Health and safety representatives do
not need to be listed, unless they have a coordinating role separate to their role as a health and
safety representative.
The arrangements in place for consultation, cooperation and coordination
An important part of the WHS management plan involves the arrangements for consultation,
cooperation and coordination of all persons conducting a business or undertaking at the workplace.
The WHS management plan must detail how the principal contractor will consult and cooperate
with other duty holders. There should be ongoing consultation and cooperation between all duty
holders so that when work overlaps, each person is aware of other construction activities and they
can control the hazards and risks created by this. Examples of how the principal contractor may do
this include:
hold pre-commencement WHS meetings with contractors and subcontractors
schedule regular contractor/subcontractor WHS meetings
hold toolbox WHS meetings
establish a construction project WHS committee
distribute a regular WHS newsletter, and
provide support, resourcing and training of health and safety representatives.
In many cases, persons who have responsibilities are not always at the workplace all the time. It is
recommended that consultation arrangements for communicating with people off-site also be
included in the WHS management plan.
The WHS management plan must detail the arrangements the principal contractor will use to
coordinate the construction work to ensure compliance. It must also include the process for
developing, reviewing and distributing SWMS. This would include providing training to workers and
contractors.
Arrangements in place for managing any work health and safety incidents
When preparing this part, the principal contractor should think about the types of WHS incidents
that might occur. The WHS management plan should document the actions that will be taken and
who will represent the principal contractor. The following should be included (covering both the
process involved and the person responsible for it):
Incident
Arrangements to stabilise and evacuate any injured person after
management
enduring safety of rescuers
Arrangements for isolating the incident scene
Arrangements for making the workplace safe after the incident
Arrangements for preserving the incident site
Arrangements for notifying the principal contractor
Notification of the relevant regulator and emergency services as
necessary
Arrangements for the investigation of an incident
Emergency
The emergency plan for the construction project
situations
Arrangements for testing of the emergency plan
Arrangements for training and instruction requirements

SEPTEMBER 2011
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First aid
arrangements
The facilities and first aid equipment that will be provided by the
principal contractor
Arrangements for training in first aid
First aid equipment that will be provided by contractors and
subcontractors
The WHS management plan should also include arrangements for reporting and acting upon near
misses that occur.
Project specific health and safety rules
The plan must detail any project specific WHS rules that the principal contractor requires persons
to comply with and the arrangements for ensuring that all persons at the workplace are informed of
these rules.
The rules should be simple and clear, and where appropriate, they should show who each rule
applies to.
To determine the project specific rules, consideration of the nature of the work, the hazards, the
size and location of the workplace, and the number and composition of the workers and other
persons at the workplace will need to occur.
Prior to finalising the rules, the principal contractor must consult with everyone in the workplace to
ensure they understand the rules.
In large or complex workplaces, or workplaces with multiple contractors working in the same
location at the same time, the principal contractor will need to ensure that appropriate training is
provided. This should take the form of project specific training provided to all persons at the
workplace.
Other ways of informing people about the safety rules are:
holding toolbox meetings
posting them in a prominent position at the workplace, and
distributing copies to everyone at the workplace.
If there are people at the workplace who do not understand English well, the WHS management
plan should set out how these people will be informed of the rules.
Arrangements to prepare, collect and assess, monitor and review safe work method
statements
The WHS management plan must provide details of the arrangements for the preparation,
collection and any assessment/approval, monitoring and review of safe work method statements at
the workplace.
The principal contractor must ensure that there are arrangements in place for the consultation,
coordination and cooperation of all persons engaged in high risk construction work so that the
SWMS used do not conflict or create new hazards or risks to health and safety.
Any contractor or subcontractor undertaking high risk construction work must provide a copy of the
SWMS to the principal contractor prior to commencing the work, and should provide a copy to the
contractor that engaged them to undertake the work.

SEPTEMBER 2011
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The plan should include arrangements to ensure that SWMS are followed by all affected workers,
contractors and subcontractors, and that work is ceased if the SWMS is not followed.

SEPTEMBER 2011
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SEPTEMBER 2011
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APPENDIX H EXAMPLES OF CONSTRUCTION WORKPLACE FACILITIES

Workplace
What facilities
are required?
Example 1:
Residential
extension
Toilets
Must provide
Number and type
based on number
and sex of workers
On agreement with
owner, provide
access to existing
toilet.
Existing single
dwelling
Max 6 workers
$100 000
Minimum
requirement:
1 unisex pan.
Example 2:
New large
residence
A temporary facility
such as a portable
toilet.
New single
dwelling
Max 15 workers
$350 000
Minimum
requirement:
1 unisex pan.
Alternative option:
nearby public toilet
facilities.
Hand washing
facilities
Must provide
Number based on
number of workers
On agreement with
owner, provide
access to existing
hand washing
facilities
Eating facilities
Showers
Change rooms
Personal
storage
Must provide
Hygienic dining
facilities for eating
meals and preparing
and storing food.
? If required
For example, if the
work involves dirty,
hot or arduous
work.
On agreement with
owner, provide
access to drinking
water facilities.
On agreement with
owner, provide
access to an area in
an existing building.
If required, on
agreement with
owner, provide
access to existing
shower facilities.
? If required
For example, if a
need to store
personal
belongings such as
tools.
If required, provide:
lockable vehicle
or trailer, or
lockable
tool/storage
boxes.
On agreement with
owner, provide
access to existing
mains water and
temporary drinking
water facilities.
A temporary
sheltered area until
able to use area of
new building.
If required, provide
a temporary
shower facility
such as a portable
shower unit until
new building facility
available.
? If required
For example, if a
need to change
in and out of
clothing (e.g.
PPE).
If required, on
agreement with
owner, provide
access to a
temporary
screened off area
with adequate
privacy in an
existing building
(e.g. in a
garage).
If required,
provide to a
temporary
screened off and
sheltered area
with adequate
until able to use
area of new
building.
Must provide
Adequate supply of
cool, clean drinking
water (free of
charge).
Minimum
requirement:
1 hand basin.
A temporary facility
such as a portable
toilet with a hand
basin.
Minimum
requirement:
1 hand basin.
Alternative option:
nearby public hand
washing facilities.

Drinking water
Alternative options:
nearby public
drinking water
facilities, or
bottled water or
containers.
Alternative options:
relocatable
building, or
nearby sheltered
public facilities.
If required,
provide:
lockable vehicle
or trailer, or
lockable
tool/storage
boxes.
SEPTEMBER 2011
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Workplace
What facilities
are required?
Example 3:
Large residential
project
New multiple
single dwellings
Max 30 workers,
including 3 female
workers
$1.5 Million
Example 4:
Commercial
construction
project
New 12 storey
office tower
Max 70 workers,
including 5 female
workers
$200 Million
Hazardous
Toilets
Must provide
Number and type
based on number
and sex of workers
Hand washing
facilities
Drinking water
Eating facilities
Showers
Change rooms
Personal
storage
Must provide
Hygienic dining
meals and preparing
and storing food.
? If required
For example, if the
hot or arduous
work.
? If required
For example, if a
need to change
in and out of
clothing (e.g.
PPE).
If required:
provide
temporary
change room
facilities, or
use area of
new building.
? If required
For example, if a
need to store
personal
belongings such as
tools.
lockable space in
a existing or
relocatable
building, or
lockable vehicle
or trailer, or
lockable
tool/storage
boxes.
As some workers
are required to
use hazardous
chemicals at the
workplace, which
requires the use
of specific PPE,
change room
facilities should
be provided.
When required,
provide:
lockable space in
change room
facility
lockable
container, vehicle
or trailer, or
lockable
tool/storage
boxes.
Must provide
Number based on
number of workers
Must provide
Adequate supply of
water (free of
charge).
Minimum
requirements:
1 female pan,
1 male pan, and
1 (space) urinal.
Minimum
requirements:
1 female hand
basin, and
1 male hand basin
Options include:
temporary facilities
such as portable
toilets
relocatable
buildings with toilet
facilities, or
use new building
facilities when
available.
Options include:
such as portable
toilets with a hand
basin
relocatable
buildings with hand
washing facilities,
or
use new building
facilities when
available.
Minimum
requirements:
1 female hand
basin, and
3 male hand
basins.
Options include:
relocatable
buildings with hand
washing facilities
Drinking water
facilities such as:
direct connection to
the mains water
supply,
bottled water or
containers.
A separate dining
facility such as:
relocatable
building, or
use of part of new
building when
available.
2 separate shower
facilities such as:
portable shower
units, or
use new building
facilities when
available.
Drinking water
facilities such as:
the water supply, or
bottled water or
containers.
A separate dining
facility such as:
relocatable
building, or
use of part of new
building when
available.
If required provide
3 male and 1
separate female
shower facilities,
such as portable
shower units.
Minimum
Requirements:
1 female pan
4 male pans, and
3 (space) urinal.
Additional
requirements due to
multi-storey building:
1 toilet (at least)
provided on every
second floor.

Additional
requirements for
large static
workplaces:
adequate supply of
Specialised shower
facilities may also
be required
dependent on the
types of activities
being undertaken,
When required:
provide
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 79 OF 80
Workplace
Toilets
Hand washing
facilities
What facilities
are required?
Must provide
Number and type
based on number
and sex of workers
Must provide
Number based on
number of workers
chemicals in use
at the workplace
Options include:
relocatable
buildings with toilet
facilities
such as portable
toilets, or
use new building
facilities when
available.
Minimum
requirements:
4 male pans, and
3 (space) urinal.
Due to rural location
and portability of the
workplace,
such as portable
toilets or relocatable
facilities should be
provided.
such as portable
toilets with a hand
basin, or
use new building
facilities when
available.
Example 5:
Civil construction
project
New major road
Outdoor and rural
location
Max 70 workers
$350 Million
Minimum
requirements:
3 male hand
basins.
Options include:
such as portable
toilets with a hand
basin, or
relocatable
buildings with hand
washing facilities.

Drinking water
Must provide
Adequate supply of
water (free of
charge).
Drinking water
facilities such as:
the local water
supply, or
bottled water or
containers.
Eating facilities
Showers
Change rooms
Personal
storage
Must provide
Hygienic dining
meals and preparing
and storing food.
? If required
For example, if the
hot or arduous
work.
? If required
For example, if a
need to store
personal
belongings such as
tools.
suitable tables,
chairs or benches,
crockery and
cutlery,
clean storage and
rubbish bins.
and any use of

hazardous
chemicals at the
workplace.
? If required
For example, if a
need to change
in and out of
clothing (e.g.
PPE).
temporary
change room
facilities, or
use area of
new building.
Access provided to a
separate dining
facility such as a
relocatable building
e.g. transportable
lunchroom.
3 separate shower
facilities such as
portable shower
units (dependent
on the types of
activities
undertaken).
If required,
access provided
to temporary
change room
facilities such as
a relocatable
building.
lockable space in
a relocatable
building,
lockable vehicle
or trailer, or
lockable
tool/storage
boxes.
SEPTEMBER 2011
PAGE 80 OF 80

Managing Risks in Construction Work

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MANAGING RISKS IN

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

MANAGING RISKS WITH CONSTRUCTION WORK............................................................12

SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENTS.................................................................................16

WHS MANAGEMENT PLANS................................................................................................21

INFORMATION, TRAINING, INSTRUCTION AND SUPERVISION........................................25

FACILITIES AND THE WORK ENVIRONMENT.....................................................................28

CONTROLLING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK............................................................32

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

SCOPE AND APPLICATION

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

Examples of a structure include:

What is a construction project?

Who has duties relating to construction work?

Person conducting a business or undertaking

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

For Safe work method statements, the principal contractor must:

For workplace arrangements, the principal contractor must:

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

storage at the workplace of plant that is not in use

Contractor and subcontractor

What is involved in managing risks relating to construction work?

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

Consulting, cooperating, coordinating with other duty holders

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

MANAGING RISKS WITH CONSTRUCTION WORK

Identify the hazards

Assess the risks

Assessing the associated risks will assist in determining:

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

Control the risks

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Review control measures

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENTS

This Chapter only applies to high risk construction work.

What is a safe work method statement?

A safe work method statement (SWMS) is a document that:

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

How many SWMS should be prepared?

Preparing a safe work method statement

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

It is recommended that a SWMS also includes the following information:

Implementing a safe work method statement

Reviewing a safe work method statement

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

WHS MANAGEMENT PLANS

What is a WHS management plan?

Preparing a WHS management plan

Implementing the WHS management plan

Informing people about the WHS management plan

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

Reviewing and revising a WHS management plan

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

High risk work

MANAGING RISKS IN CONSTRUCTION WORK

What asbestos can be removed?

A licence is not required when: