Concrete, Masonry & Roofing SWMS Templates

This category covers a broad range of construction trades that share common hazard profiles: silica dust exposure, fall risk, and manual handling injuries from heavy materials. Many of these activities intersect with other HRCW categories — roof installation almost always involves falls from more than 2 metres, and concrete cutting frequently generates respirable crystalline silica (RCS) at levels well above the workplace exposure standard.

Work covered includes concrete pouring, placing and finishing; concrete core drilling and wet and dry cutting; bricklaying, blockwork and retaining wall construction; and the installation of metal deck, corrugated iron, tile and membrane roofing systems.

Silica dust management is a critical component of the SWMS for any task involving cutting, grinding or drilling of concrete, masonry or engineered stone. The Safe Work Australia Engineered Stone Code of Practice (2022) imposes specific controls including wet cutting methods, on-tool extraction, and respiratory protective equipment (minimum P2 half-face respirator). Health monitoring is required for workers with ongoing silica exposure.

For roofing work, fall protection must follow the hierarchy of controls: first, collective protection via edge protection systems or safety mesh under metal decking; second, travel restraint; and personal fall arrest only where collective protection is not reasonably practicable. The SWMS must also address the structural capacity of the roof for live loads during installation and the management of fragile roofing materials.