Working at Heights SWMS Templates

Working at heights is one of the most common causes of serious injury and fatality on Australian construction sites. Under WHS Regulations Schedule 3, any work where there is a risk of a fall of more than 2 metres is classified as High Risk Construction Work (HRCW) and requires a SWMS before work commences.

Work that falls into this category includes roof installation and repair, scaffolding erection and dismantling, elevated work platform (EWP) operations, structural steel erection, installation of cladding and curtain wall systems, and any edge work on slabs, bridges or elevated platforms.

Scaffolding over 4 metres requires a licensed scaffolder holding a high-risk work licence (Basic, Intermediate or Advanced depending on scaffold type) under the relevant state or territory WHS Regulation. EWP operators working on platforms with a boom length exceeding 11 metres also require a high-risk work licence. All workers must be competent in fall prevention and the correct use of personal fall arrest systems in accordance with AS/NZS 1891.

The SWMS for working at heights must identify all fall hazards, specify the hierarchy of controls applied (elimination, collective protection such as edge barriers, then personal fall arrest as a last resort), and detail rescue procedures in the event of a fall or suspension trauma. It must be prepared by a competent person and signed by every worker performing the task before they begin.