General Construction SWMS Templates

The obligation to prepare a SWMS for general construction work applies wherever that work is carried out on a construction site and involves a High Risk Construction Work activity as defined in WHS Regulations Schedule 3. The WHS Regulation Part 6.1 makes clear that the SWMS must be prepared before the HRCW commences and must be specific to the work — a generic SWMS that is not tailored to the actual tasks, site conditions and workforce does not satisfy the legal requirement.

Work in this category includes painting and surface preparation, floor screeding and tiling, carpet and timber floor installation, suspended ceiling installation, insulation installation, HVAC ductwork and equipment installation, joinery and carpentry fit-out, and glazing.

While these trades may appear lower-risk than structural or civil work, the HRCW triggers are frequently present: working on elevated platforms or scaffolding (falls >2 m), working with isocyanate-based paints and adhesives (hazardous substances), or installing services adjacent to energised electrical equipment. Each of these requires a SWMS with controls specific to that hazard.

The SWMS for general construction work must be developed in consultation with the workers who will carry out the work, who must sign it before commencing. The principal contractor on a construction project must ensure a SWMS exists for every HRCW activity and must keep copies available on site. Workers have the right to cease unsafe work if they believe the SWMS controls are inadequate or are not being followed.