Asbestos & Hazardous Materials SWMS Templates
SWMS for work involving or likely to disturb asbestos, lead paint, or other hazardous materials requiring specialist removal procedures.
Asbestos-related work is among the most tightly regulated activities in Australian workplaces and is a distinct HRCW category under WHS Regulations Schedule 3. Any work that involves, or is likely to involve, the disturbance of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) requires a SWMS and must be performed by workers with the appropriate licence and training.
Class B asbestos removal (non-friable ACM up to 10 m²) requires a Class B asbestos removal licence and may be performed by licensed contractors who have completed the required asbestos removal training. Class A asbestos removal (friable asbestos, all amounts; and non-friable over 10 m²) requires a Class A licence, licensed supervisors, personal air monitoring during removal, and clearance inspection by a licensed asbestos assessor before re-occupation.
Beyond asbestos, this category covers work involving lead paint in pre-1980 structures, synthetic mineral fibres, contaminated soil, and other hazardous substances that require specialist management under the WHS Regulations and relevant Safe Work Australia codes of practice.
The SWMS must specify the ACM or hazardous substance identified, the removal method, the required PPE (including P2 or P3 respirators as applicable), the decontamination procedure, waste disposal method, and the air monitoring regime. The asbestos removal control plan required under WHS Regulation 462 supplements but does not replace the SWMS.
Non-Friable Asbestos Removal
Safe Work Method Statement for the removal of non-friable (bonded) asbestos-containing materials (ACM) such as fibro sheeting, asbestos cement roofing, vinyl floor tiles and textured coatings. Applies to licensed or unlicensed removal work in accordance with WHS Regulations.
Friable Asbestos Removal
Safe Work Method Statement for the removal of friable asbestos-containing materials (ACM) by a licensed Class A asbestos removalist, in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Regulations and the Safe Work Australia Code of Practice.
Lead Paint Removal
Safe Work Method Statement for the removal of lead-based paint from building surfaces using abrasive methods, chemical stripping, and heat methods, in compliance with Australian WHS regulations and Safe Work Australia guidance.
Contaminated Soil Handling
Safe Work Method Statement for the excavation, handling, classification, and removal of contaminated soils on brownfield and remediation sites, in accordance with Australian environmental and WHS requirements.
Asbestos Encapsulation
Safe Work Method Statement for the encapsulation of non-friable asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in situ, using penetrating sealants, bridging sealants, or enclosing materials to prevent fibre release without full removal.
Silica Dust Management
Safe Work Method Statement for managing respirable crystalline silica (RCS) exposure during construction activities including engineered stone benchtop fabrication, masonry cutting, concrete grinding, and tunnelling operations.