Safe work Method Statement

For Federal Safety Commissioner (FSC) approved companies or builders who require a high level of Safe Work Method
Statements the attached SWMS is a guide only. As some FSC approved companies may require the use of their own SWMS
temple which is structured at a higher level to what is provided on this SWMS.

Use of Master Builders Generic Safe Work Method Statements

Disclaimer:


Rules for the use of Master Builders generic SWMS

1. This generic SWMS is provided as a sample only. It is not to be used by a builder or subcontractor for the purpose of managing
safety on their projects. It can be used as a template to enable builders and subcontractors to produce their own SWMS.
2. Employers intending to use this SWMS as a template for their own SWMS must ensure they consult with their employees, including
their Health and Safety Representatives, prior to its introduction.

3. Builders and subcontractors must ensure that their SWMS is relevant to the project at hand. Generic SWMS should not be used unless
precautions have been taken to ensure that the document adequately addresses the hazards and risks relevant to each particular
project. And the correct risk rating and residual risk rating are inserted.

4. Builders and subcontractors intending to use this sample SWMS as a template for their own generic SWMS, without making any
changes to the detail, must ensure that they adhere to and implement all of the relevant risk controls and residual risk rating.

5. The range of generic SWMS provided by Master Builders are not sufficiently broad enough to cover all hazards or risks encountered
by builders and subcontractors. It does not cover the full list of requirements for which SWMS are specifically required under the OHS
Construction Regulations. It is important that the builder or subcontractor undertake their own hazard identification and risk control
process relevant for each particular task.

It is highly recommended that persons who are responsible for preparing and reviewing SWMS undertake training so as to understand the
process of identifying and controlling risks in the workplace.




Safe Work Method Statement

Contractor Company Name:
ABN:
Company Address:
Company Contact:
SWMS No ____ Page 1 of

Work Activity: Detailed excavation / installation of formwork &
reinforcement / concreting

Project:
Project Address:
Date:


SWMS developed by:



SWMS Reviewed by:


Plant required for the task:


Hazardous substances:


Specific training required:

Specific PPE: All personal protective equipment and clothing will comply with
relevant Australian standards
State of knowledge
documentation (safety
legislation; codes of practice;
standards, etc):

OHS Act 2004 OHS Regulations 2007
Code of Practice for Manual Handling
AS/NZS3012:2010 Electrical Installations on Construction &
Demo Sites
AS/NZS 1892.5 -2000 Portable Ladders Selection use
Emergency planning: As per Principal Contractors emergency requirements. This
task does not require specific emergency planning.
Person in control of inducting workers into this SWMS:

Engineering Details / Certificates / WorkSafe Approvals:

Training

Certificates Approvals Permits
Construction Induction (CI)
Site specific induction training
SWMS induction to the site
MSDS induction to the site




Consequence Likelihood / Probability
Almost certain Likely Possible Unlikely Rare
Catastrophe Extreme Extreme High High Medium
Major Extreme High High Medium Low
Moderate High High Medium Medium Low
Significant High Medium Medium Low Low
Negligible Medium Low Low Low Low



Risk Matrix

The higher the consequence and the more the likelihood/probability of it occurring, the greater the urgency
required to attend to the removal or minimisation of that hazard.

The first control strategy to be applied is to eliminate risks by :

1. Eliminating the use of the hazardous activity, plant, tool or substance if practicable. If this is not practicable, risk
should be reduced as far as practicable by one or a combination of:
2. Substitution by less hazardous activity, plant, tool or substance
3. Isolation of the activity, plant, tool or substance to prevent or reduce exposure to the hazard
4. Engineering controls. eg exhaust ventilation for dusts or vapours.
5. When these measures have been applied to the highest extent practicable, any remaining risk should be reduced by
an administrative control. This means adoption of procedures or instructions that minimise exposure to the hazard.
Where an administrative control is used it should be documented in a SWMS.
6. When risk has been reduced as far as practicable by one or a combination of these measures, any remaining risk may be controlled using PPE. Note that where a National Construction Standard
mandated high risk work activity occurs a specific SWMS must be developed and followed.

Consequence

Likelihood
Catastrophe
Severe health effects leading to multiple fatalities.
Cessation of activities
Almost certain
The event will occur on a regular basis
Major
Death/permanent disability. Major damage requiring
corrective action

Likely
Not unusual. Has occurred
several times before
Moderate
Medical treatment for moderate injury.
Moderate disruption

Possible
Unusual but possible. Might
occur once in your contract
Negligible
No treatment. Low level, short term injury. Negligible
disruption.

Rare
Heard of something like the
event occurring elsewhere
Significant
First aid treatment, minor injury. Minor disruption of
operations.

Unlikely
The event does occur somewhere from
time to time



Item
Procedure Tasks
List the tasks required to perform the activity
in the sequence they are carried out.
Hazards and Risks
What can harm you - Hazards?
What can happen - Risks?

Risk
Rating
Risk control measures
List the control measures required to eliminate or
reduce the risk of injury and detail how the control
measures will be put in place. (Use the Hierarchy of
Control as far as reasonably practicable) Refer to the
Project Risk register as required.

Residual
Risk
Rating
(When
required)
Who is responsible?
Write the name of the
person responsible
(supervisor or above) to
implement the control
measures identified.





GENERAL PLANNING AND
GENERAL SAFETY

Injuries due to lack of
training, inexperience or lack
of supervision.


All workers to be inducted into and
understand all the requirements of this
SWMS prior to commencing work.
All workers to have sufficient training,
skills and competency to complete the
required tasks. All workers to be
holders of a Construction induction card








UV Exposure Exposure to ultra violet light,
glare leading to skin cancer,
sunburn, eye damage.

Schedule outdoor tasks to keep UV
exposure to a minimum.
When working long periods in the sun
the following should be worn:
full length clothing, such as
overalls or long sleeve shirts and
pants
15+ sunscreen on exposed skin
wide brimmed hat or flap on
hard hats0
AS rated sunglasses







Hot Weather Dizziness, dehydration or
other illness due to hot
weather.
Where practicable, reduce heat load
using fans, shade cloth or other suitable
means.
Where practicable, schedule tasks to
cooler parts of the day to minimize risks
of heat exposure.
Ensure workers wear the lightest
clothing that still provides protection
and a wide brimmed hat or flap on hard
hat.
Provide adequate supplies of drinking
water.
Where workers are at risk, reduce the
time spent on tasks and provide
adequate rest breaks in cooler areas.







Electrical Equipment Electrocution from using
power tools and extension
leads.
Ensure that power is only obtained from
a protected power supply with RCD,
over current protection and in
compliance with AS 3012 and the
Industry Standard for Electrical
Installations on Construction Sites.
Do not use electrical tools, plant
extension leads and appliances unless
these have current test tags attached.
Extension leads to be kept elevated on
insulated hangers or stands to within 4
metres of the immediate area where
power is to be used and to be kept
clear of access areas and walkways
and clear of direct contact with metal.


Noise Hearing damage from use of
plant and equipment such as
excavators, vibratory plate,
vibrators, saws, nail guns etc.
Where practicable, provide engineered
solution for high noise level, e.g. quieter
or muffled equipment, temporary sound
absorption screen or barrier to protect
other persons in the area.
Check that regular plant and equipment
maintenance to minimize noise has
been carried out and that noise
suppression mufflers etc. are fitted to
prior to use.
Identify noisy work areas.
Ensure appropriate hearing protection
is worn.


Traffic Management Personnel being struck by
moving vehicles and plant.


Ensure all workers are aware of site
traffic safety requirements; designated
safe access points and walkways;
designated plant/vehicle movement
zones; designated parking areas and
designated delivery areas.
Where in doubt consult the builder or
site supervisor.

Ensure reflective vests are worn as
required.




Manual Handling Sprains, strains or other
musculoskeletal injury from
lifting and carrying equipment
(e.g., cement mixer, Wacker
plate, rotary trowel etc.) and
materials (e.g., sheets of ply,
frames, steel reo, bearers).
Have equipment and materials
delivered as close as possible to work
areas.
When possible, use a crane, winch or
other mechanical lifting aid to lift objects
in and out of vehicles, or use a trolley
and ramp if other lifting aids are not
practicable.
When possible, use aids such as
forklifts, trolleys and wheelsets to move
equipment and materials to work areas.
When possible, use a crane, winch,
materials hoist or other mechanical
lifting aid to get equipment and
materials to upper levels.
When possible, use material sizes that
are easily manageable by workers
(e.g., as short as possible formwork
bearers, planks etc.).
Where the above are not practicable
use team effort to lift or move objects.
This is to be applied only as a last
resort measure and by personnel
trained in correct lifting techniques.


Use of Powered Mobile Plant






Personnel being struck by
powered mobile plant.

Ensure that all powered mobile plant is
checked prior to use for warning horn,
reversing beepers, flashing lights,
working mirrors to enable a clear area
of viewing.
Ensure that all maintenance of powered
mobile plant is up to date.
Ensure that all operators of powered
mobile plant are adequately trained or
have a certificate of competency for the
operation of the plant.
Separate pedestrians from the powered
mobile plant operating area by
barricading pedestrian walkways and
requiring the mobile plant operators,




their passengers and other operators to
remain in their cabins or within
specified safety zones.
Ensure that all personnel within
operating zones of powered mobile
plant wear reflective vests and hard
hats.
Use of Cranes

Crushing injury from load
failure due to exceeding safe
working load or lifting gear
snagging or failing.

Ensure that the crane is operated only
by a crane operator holding a certificate
of competency of the right class for the
type of crane.
All loads to be assessed and directed
by a qualified dogman.
Slings to be regularly inspected, tested
and tagged.


Use of Fuels (e.g. petrol,
diesel)
Fire or explosion from
incorrect storage of fuels.




Ensure that a material safety data sheet
is available and that recommendations
are followed.
Switch off motors when refuelling. Do
not spoke when refuelling.

Store in appropriately labeled fuel
containers.
Store in a well-ventilated area free of
sources of ignition and with danger - no
smoking signs.







EXCAVATIONS FOR
FOOTINGS / STOCK PILING
SPOIL / CUTTING PILES
Check for existing services
Contact with underground
services (gas, electricity,
pipelines, sewer) and
contaminated soil.


Inspect all relevant site drawings and
where necessary contact the Dial-
before-you-dig-service prior to digging.

Ensure that all underground services
and any other contamination are
identified and that all relevant safety
issues are addressed prior to
commencing work.












Unload plant and equipment Employees struck by mobile
plant.
Plant, vehicles, tools,
equipment, persons
On arrival to site, delivery vehicles must
be parked in specified area & contact is
to be made with site management and
instruction obtained as to the




obstructing work areas, road
ways and public areas.
appropriate area to unload.
If plant and equipment cannot be
unloaded within the site boundary,
traffic management (as per site TMP)
must be in place prior to unloading.
Roadways, public areas, haul roads
and access routes must not be
obstructed by any plant and equipment
unloaded on site, unless under
management instruction.
Once equipment has been unloaded, it
needs to be relocated to the required
work area or stored in the nominated
area so it does not obstruct the
roadways, public areas, haul roads and
access routes.
Only trained and authorized personal to
operate earthmoving plant.
All earthmoving plant to be inducted to
site prior to operation.
Exclusion zones, barricades and
signage to be erected if required prior
to works starting.
Access for trucks etc to be set up prior
to work starting.
Agreed communication to be place (2
way, UHF etc ) if required.
Dust control is to be arranged prior to
works starting and maintained at all
times.
Ground excavation

Crushing injury from powered
excavators or other mobile
plant overturning or plant
falling into excavations.


Ensure that all safety controls as
detailed above in General Planning
and General Safety Issues Use of
Powered Mobile Plant have been
implemented.

Level the operating area of the plant
and fill in hollows, dips etc.
Install adequate visible barriers along








excavations, hollows, ramps and
embankments.

If necessary clearly mark the edges and
direct mobile plant traffic away from
excavations. Provide a spotter to
accurately direct the plant and other
vehicles.

A spotter may be necessary to be
present when spoil is tipped
depending upon location and if there
are pedestrians present in the area.
As far as practicable, keep mobile plant
away from excavated edges to prevent
soil movement and collapse.
No person to remain in close proximity
to where an excavator is operating.
Excavations for Footings /
Stock-Piling Spoil / Cutting
Piles (cont.)
Crushing injury from workers
being struck by powered
mobile plant.
Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Use of Powered Mobile Plant.


Crushing injury from collapse
of undermined nearby
structures.
Ensure that any potential undermining
of nearby structures has been
assessed by a competent person (such
as a Geo-Technical Engineer) and that
any necessary supports are in place.



Crushing injury from collapse
of the sides of the
excavation.

No person to enter any unsupported
section of an excavation unless it has
been assessed for stability and has
adequate ground support.
Ensure that sides of excavations are
protected by a trench shield or by
shoring, battering or stepped as
detailed in the Code of Practice Safety
Precautions in Trenching Operations.
Do not allow plant close to the sides of
an excavation.








No person to work alone within
excavations.

Falling into excavations.


The sides of the excavation to be
protected by barriers to prevent falling,
particularly where access is required
within 2 metres of unprotected edges
Provide adequate access ramp, stairs
or ladder to prevent falls.


Injuries to the head from
materials, rock or spoil falling
onto people working in
excavations or from collision
with fixed objects.
Ensure construction and excavated
materials are kept at least 0.5 metres
away from the edges of excavations.

Ensure hard hats are worn when
working in excavations.


Carbon monoxide poisoning
from fumes given off by
fuelled plant and equipment
such as generators, cutting
saws etc.
Do not operate fuel driven plant or
equipment inside trenches, holes, or
shafts unless adequate exhaust
ventilation is provided, or use electric
powered equipment instead.
Keep fuel driven equipment well away
from excavations prevent build up of
exhaust fumes.






Accidents to members of the
public.

Where practicable, fill in or cover up
any excavations that may be accessed
by members of the public.

Protect after hours by barriers and
illuminated signage to prevent falling.


Identification of previously
undetected hazards (soil
contamination, ground
asbestos)
Exposure to hazardous
substances
At anytime odorous or oily material is
identified, works are to stop and site
management is to be contacted for
advice. No works are permitted to
recommence in the area until such time
approval has been provided by the site
supervisor.



If any debris or building rubble is
identified, works are to stop and site
management is to be notified for
instruction.
At anytime suspected asbestos
containing materials are identified,
works are to stop and site management
notified for instruction.
NO works are permitted to
recommence in the area until such time
approval has been provided by the site
supervisor.
Contaminated Material -
Unloading, plant, equipment &
tools
Plant & vehicles exposed to
contaminated materials.
Employees struck by mobile
plant.
Plant, vehicles, tools,
equipment, persons
obstructing work areas, road
ways and public areas.
On arrival to site, delivery vehicles must
be parked in specified area & contact is
to be made with site management and
instruction obtained as to the
appropriate area to unload.
If plant and equipment cannot be
unloaded within the site boundary,
traffic management (as per site TMP)
must be in place prior to unloading.
Any delivery vehicles unloading in
contaminated areas must have the
driver inducted into the relevant
contractor SWMS site prior to unloading
if they are required to exit the truck cab.
The contaminated area may need to be
scraped level prior to vehicle entry if the
ground conditions are poor.
Vehicles must proceed through the
wheel wash / plant decontamination
area prior to leaving site.
Roadways, public areas, haul roads
and access routes must not be
obstructed by any plant and equipment
unloaded on site, unless under
management instruction.

Once equipment has been unloaded, it



needs to be relocated to the required
work area or stored in the nominated
area so it does not obstruct the
roadways, public areas, haul roads and
access routes.
Contaminated Material -
Prepare for work
Exposure to contaminated
materials.
Struck by mobile plant.
Slips, trips & falls.
Trucks being bogged
Prior to works starting contact to be
made with management to discuss
scope of work and required work area /
exclusion zone for tasks to take place.
The site contamination plan is to be
reviewed to inform the contractor of
suspected contaminates in work zone.
environmental to be contacted if
required.
Only trained and authorized personal to
operate earthmoving plant.
All earthmoving plant to be inducted to
site prior to operation.
Exclusion zones, barricades and
signage to be erected if required prior
to works starting.
Access for trucks etc to be set up prior
to work starting.
Agreed communication to be place (2
way, UHF etc ) if required.
Dust control is to be arranged prior to
works starting and maintained at all
times.
If operators intend to be working in a
sealed cabin, then no additional PPE
will be required to be worn, however if
they intend to handling contaminated
soils then overalls, PVC gloves, half
face respirator will be required if dust or
odour is present (with a P2 particulate
filter for dust) or (with organic vapour
filters for potential presence of organic
volatiles.




Contaminated Material -
Bulk excavation, stockpiling,
trenching and loading soil
Being struck by delivery
trucks or passing vehicles.
Falls & trips when moving
around wet and slippery site.
Contact with o/head or
U/ground assets.
Plant overturning.
Persons struck by moving
vehicles.
Truck Drivers injured by
plant.
Dust contamination of the
area.
Exposure to contaminated
soil.
Exposure to asbestos
containing materials.
Site traffic management plan to be in
place prior to works starting.
Appropriate access to be provided for
contractor access to work area and for
truck / trailer movement.
Pre-start check to be completed prior to
works commencing.
Agreed communication to be place (2
way, UHF etc) if required.
Site service plan to be reviewed, all
overhead and underground services in
work area that have not been de-
energized or made safe, are required to
be clearly marked and no go zones
implemented / spotter to be in place if
required.
Pedestrians are to be kept out of work
zone.
Truck drivers are required to stay inside
the cabin until the truck has been
loaded and they can drive to the
designated area to tarp up.
At any stage any person is observed
within the excavators work area the
machine is to immediately stop working
and the operator is required to wait until
the area is clear of personal.
The operator is required to ensure that
the working stockpile is safe to access
and left in a safe condition.
The operator will communicate with
water cart to ensure the soil remains
damp and dust is controlled at all times.
No eating, drinking or smoking is
allowed within the work site including
within the machines cabin.





At anytime odorous, or oily material is
identified, works are to stop and site
management is to be contacted for
advice. The SWMS for odour
monitoring is to be followed. No works
are permitted to recommence in the
area until such time approval has been
provided by the site supervisor.
If any debris or building rubble is
identified, works are to stop and site
management is to be notified for
instruction.
At anytime suspected asbestos
containing materials are identified,
works are to stop and site management
notified for instruction.
The SWMS for suspect material in soil
is to be followed.
NO works are permitted to
recommence in the area until such time
approval has been provided by the site
supervisor.


Contaminated Material -
Clean-up & leave site
Being struck by delivery
trucks or passing vehicles.
Falls & trips when moving
around wet and slippery site.
Trips and falls into open
excavations.
Contact with o/head or
u/ground assets.
Plant overturning.
Persons struck by moving
vehicles.
Truck drivers injured by plant.
Dust contamination of the
area.
Operators only to exit trucks in
nominated area.
Site ground conditions to be monitored
and maintained in an acceptable
condition by mechanical sweeping,
scraping with earthmoving plant,
washing down, hardstands to be used if
possible.
All pedestrians, excavation to be
backfilled if possible, if not possible
barricades are required to be installed
at the angle of repose.
It is the responsibility of the contractor
who excavated the area to install and
maintain the barricades.
Tippers must ensure that the body is
fully lowered prior to moving.




Stockpiles are required to be
maintained in a safe condition.
Stockpiles are to be located away from
drainage points.
Dust must be suppressed at all times.

Exposure to contaminated
soil.
Exposure to asbestos
containing materials.
Drains contaminated with soil
runoff.
Roads soiled by
contaminated soil.
Passing public struck by
vehicles entering / leaving
site.
Contamination of clean
areas.
If soils loads on trucks cannot be kept
damp, then they are required to be
tarped up or covered during
transportation.
Wheel wash to be used on all vehicles
that have had contact with
contaminated soil prior to leaving site.
Use active traffic control at site entry
points.
Personnel leaving the work site MUST
leave through the site change area.
This includes all meal breaks, toilet
breaks etc.
All boots must go through the boot
washes.
Hard hats, high viz vests and boots that
cannot be cleaned or decontaminated
must be left in the change area and not
taken into the clean zone.
If gloves are worn they need to be
washed as per procedure.
Coveralls that are not soiled may be left
in change area for re-use. Soiled
coveralls are to be left in the laundry
container or Tyvex suits disposed of in
nominated area.
Disposable masks to be disposed of in
nominated area.
Half face respirator to be cleaned as
per procedure and cartridges inspected
as per procedure.
Hands, face are to be washed
thoroughly.




If persons have had significant direct
contact with contaminated soil, has
occurred was in shower provided.
If normal clothing has been
contaminated the clothing should be
bagged for professional cleaning.
Temporary clothing such as clean
disposable coveralls will be supplied to
the person.
COMPACTING SOIL/SAND
BED
Injury to feet from compactor
plate (e.g., Wacker plate).

Manual handling and noise
injuries.
Ensure that the operator is trained in
the safe use of the plate and that safety
footwear is worn.

Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Manual Handling and Noise.


PLACEMENT OF VAPOUR
BARRIER PLASTIC
Manual handling injury.

Falling into excavations.
Control as detailed above in General
planning and general safety issues.

Provide fall protection as detailed
above for excavations.


PLACEMENT OF
REINFORCEMENT

Manual handling injuries.





Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Manual Handling; and:
ensure that steel reinforcement for
different areas has been sorted and
is placed on the work areas to
minimize double handling;
use lifting hooks and similar aids to
minimize bending down;
use job rotation as far as
practicable.


Injury from contact with sharp
edges of reinforcement and
flakey steel.
Protective gloves to be worn.
Ensure sharp edges of reinforcing bars
are bent away from access points or
that they are covered over protected by
caps.




Tripping and falling when
walking over reinforcement.
Provide safe access by temporarily
planking over reinforcement if
necessary.


Falling off unprotected edges
and falling objects.
Ensure that all work is carried out from
a working platform protected by
perimeter guardrails or equivalent fall
protection.

When working in excavations provide
fall and falling object protection as
detailed above for excavations.


Injury due to load failure
when lifting and lowering
reinforcement by crane.
Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Use of Cranes.


- Cutting steel reinforcement Injuries such as cuts,
abrasions, electric shock and
flying objects from using
grinders and saws.


Ensure correct blades and guards are
fitted.
Wear protective goggles or face shields
when using power tools.

Ensure that electrical equipment is
used as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Electrical Equipment.

Electrical leads to be elevated and not
in contact with metallic objects.


Fire from sparks generated
when using angle grinder.
Work area to be cleared of combustible
material prior to cutting.
Fire extinguisher to be available
adjacent to work area and in each
vehicle.


Hearing damage from noisy
tools.
Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Noise.




Fire and/or burns or damage
to eyes from cutting steel with
oxy-acetylene torch.

Work area to be cleared of combustible
material prior to cutting.
Hoses and equipment to be inspected
for damage prior to use.
Fire extinguisher to be available
adjacent to work area.
Flashback arresters to be fitted.
Protective clothing and oxy-acetylene
welding goggles to be worn while
cutting.


- Walking on reinforcement and
formwork
Injury from tripping over
during pour and/or twisting
ankle or knee.

Make sure that steel reinforcement has
enough ties or chairs so that it does not
sag or give way.
Make sure that planks are provided to
cover deep beams and that
penetrations are covered over so that
these do not form a trap.
Do not walk backwards during delivery
and placement of concrete.
Make sure boots are not caught
between steel.


Constructing Formwork
Lift formwork components and fit
into position

Manual handling injuries. Control lifting as detailed above in
General Planning and General Safety
Issues Manual Handling.

Deliver formwork as close as possible
to the work area making sure that
materials are sorted out and placed
optimally so as to minimize double
handling.

Ensure that formwork components that
are to be lifted by hand are small as
practicable for ease of handling or that
they are manageable.

Avoid using long awkward to handle
bearers.
Do not handle wet timber. Use only dry




timber.
Erect formwork frames and
props
Formwork structure
inadequate leading to injuries
due to formwork failure.

Ensure formwork structure is designed
by a competent person and that it is
erected using the correct components
and in compliance with the formwork
documentation and project
documentation.
Carry out regular inspections for
compliance.


Injury from being struck by
unsupported falling frames.
Use correct frame erection sequence.
Support and brace frames as specified
in site drawings. Do not leave
unsupported.


Install bearers and joists Falling off from formwork
frames or from planks.



Do not stand on formwork frames at
any time. Stand on temporary planking
with a minimum of two planks or a safe
working platform such as a mobile
scaffold where practicable.

Ensure that all work from which a fall of
more than 2 metres is possible is
carried out from a working platform
protected by perimeter guardrails or
equivalent fall protection.

Provide safe access ladder adequately
secured against movement.


Placing formwork ply deck Falling off through bearers or
from unprotected edges
during placement of formwork
ply.

Do not walk on bearers. Initially work
from temporary formwork ply or planked
platform placed from underneath and
fitted with perimeter guardrails (also
placed from underneath or other safe
platform).
Ensure that all work from which a fall of
more than 2 metres is possible is
carried out from a working platform




protected by perimeter guardrails or
equivalent fall protection.
Provide adequate access stairs or
ladder to prevent falls.
Placing formwork ply deck
(Contd.)
Injury from wind uplifting
formwork ply.
Ensure loose formwork ply is secured
during windy conditions and that bulk
ply is not left unsecured during down
periods and after hours.
Formwork ply to be nailed down
immediately upon positioning.


Falling from unprotected
edges of suspended slab
decks or through
penetrations etc.


Ensure that all formwork from which a
fall of more than 2 metres is possible is
carried out from a working platform
protected by perimeter guardrails of
adequate strength with midrails. Install
guardrails as necessary or other
adequate fall protection such as
external scaffold or a catch platform.
Prohibit access within two metres of
edges without fall protection. Install
access prohibition barrier with Danger
No Access signs within 2 metres of
unprotected edges.
Ensure that all holes and penetrations
are covered over or fitted with
guardrails.


Installation of guard rails Falling off unprotected voids
and unprotected edges.
Where practicable install guardrails
from a protected work platform such as
a scaffold or elevating work platform.

Use a travel restraint/safety harness
system, making sure that workers are
suitably trained prior to use and verify
prior to use that the restraint has
adequate anchoring in accordance with
manufacturers instructions.




Unauthorised access into
formwork areas
Falls from heights

Clearly, define between complete and
incomplete formwork areas with
appropriate hand rails and signage


Access to upper levels Falling off while climbing
frames due to lack of stairs or
ladder access or falling off
ladders or ladder landings.

Install access stairs and/or additional
access ladders and tie access ladders
securely to structure.
Ladders to project at least 900mm
above upper landing.
Provide guardrails at landing point.
Install guard rails to landing zone
working off stairs. Prohibit access to
upper levels pending installation of
guardrails.


Cutting and fitting timber

Injuries such as cuts,
abrasions, electric shock and
flying objects from using
saws and nail guns.




Ensure correct blades and working
guards are fitted to all power tools.
Wear protective goggles or face shields
when using power tools and nail guns.
Check to ensure compressor air hoses
and clippings are secure.
Ensure that electrical equipment is
used as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Electrical Equipment.


Tripping hazards. Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Access to Work Areas; and:

Remove protruding nails or hammer
flush with deck.
Keep access areas and decks free
of oil and water. Use sand or
sawdust to minimize slipping where
necessary.


Falling objects and collision
with fixed objects.
Cover over all holes and penetrations
as far as practicable.
Install kickboards or steel mesh at
perimeters and other edges from which




objects may fall or barricade and
signpost areas underneath as No-Go
areas.
Hard hats to be worn.
Injury from splinters and
nails.
Ensure all timber and plywood is de-
nailed prior to use. Timber should be
denailed immediately after being
stripped.
Protective gloves to be worn when
handling timber.


Hearing damage from noisy
tools.
Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Noise.


Walking on reinforcement and
formwork
Injury from tripping over
during pour and/or twisting
ankle or knee.

Make sure that steel reinforcement has
enough ties or chairs so that it does not
sag or give way.
Make sure that planks are provided to
cover deep beams and that
penetrations are covered over so that
these do not form a trap.
Do not walk backwards during delivery
and placement of concrete.
Make sure boots are not caught
between steel.


Erect formwork frames on upper
levels (suspended slabs)
Structural collapse Ensure the minimum concrete cure time
has been reached before placing loads
on the deck. Ensure any issues of load
limits and back-propping of lower floors
have been addressed.


Placing concrete on suspended
formwork
Structural collapse from
formwork failure







Before the concrete pour is allowed to
commence, the formwork is to be
inspected and certified by a structural
engineer. The engineer should supply
an inspection certificate to verify the
structural integrity of the support
structure and formwork system.
Ensure that no worker is allowed to
access the immediate area beneath the









Falls from heights
section of formwork where the concrete
is being poured. If an observer is to be
positioned at a lower level during the
pouring operation, they must be located
in a position that will safe guard them
from injury if the formwork fails during
concrete placement. Generally, neither
the observer nor any other worker
should be permitted to access the area
below the pour once concrete
placement has commenced, even to
rectify problems.
Ensure fall protection has been
provided and being maintained. i.e.
scaffold, screens or hand rails and any
voids are adequately covered over.
PLACEMENT OF CONCRETE

Manual handling injuries from
shoveling concrete,
spreading, screeding etc.
Control lifting as detailed above in
General Planning and General Safety
Issues Manual Handling; and:
pump concrete optimally so as to
minimize shoveling;
alternate tasks between workers to
minimize sustained bending;
use appropriate tools such as
spreading rakes instead of shovels
to spread and scrape concrete;
Use mechanical screeding for large
runs where practicable.


Positioning concrete pumps and
trucks
Injuries due to lack of risk
assessment and/or operator
training.
Pump operators to supply SWMS, risk
assessment, maintenance records and
pipe wall thickness tests for use of
pump and evidence of current high risk
work licence.


Electrocution from contact
with overhead power lines.
Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Power lines.




Reversing trucks discharging
into pumps
(contd.)
Operators and nearby
workers being crushed by
reversing trucks
discharging concrete into a
pump.

Ensure that all traffic management and
plant safety controls as detailed above
in General Planning and General
Safety Issues Traffic Management
and Use of Powered Mobile Plant
have been implemented and that:
Make sure that concrete truck, delivery
and turning areas are identified clearly
and that traffic and pedestrian warning
notices are posted at truck entrance
and exit points.

Plan pour schedules and deliveries to
avoid the need for more than one truck
discharging concrete simultaneously. If
this cannot be avoided do the following:
isolate the concrete truck and pump
zone with fencing or barriers and
post clearly visible signs prohibiting
unauthorised access to the truck
and pump zone;
Organise the direction of truck
movement to minimise restrictions
on the drivers' vision.
Use a safety observer to control
truck movement.
If the safety observer is not
available to assist concrete trucks
reversing, then only one truck is to
be unloaded at a time
if the safety observer is not visible to
the driver when reversing into
position, then the driver should stop
immediately
before proceeding, the truck driver
who is already on the concrete
pump to be alerted by the safety
observer to the presence of another




truck being reversed on to the
pump. Make sure that the driver of
the second truck remains clear until
signalled to reverse by the observer
the safety observer to be in a
position that prevents him or her
from being caught between the
pump hopper and the reversing
truck.
Pumping Concrete Overturning of pump due to
instability.
Operator to check and ensure that
ground surface is level, stable, not on a
slope or near holes and has adequate
load bearing capacity.
Pump to be set to correct level or with
no more than the max inclination
allowable and with out-riggers on
correct timber supports.




Injury due to blow out, burst
line, violent ejection of
concrete or failure of hose
joints.
Make sure that concrete pump hoses
are inspected and are in a serviceable
condition.
Make sure that joints are secure and
have the correct holding pins on
couplings.
Provide adequate warning to operators
prior to starting the pump so that there
is good control of T-bar at end of hose.


Walking on reinforcement and
formwork
Injury from tripping over
during pour and/or twisting
ankle or knee.

Make sure that steel reinforcement has
enough ties or chairs so that it does not
sag or give way.
Make sure that planks are provided to
cover deep beams and that
penetrations are covered over so that
these do not form a trap.
Do not walk backwards during delivery
and placement of concrete.
Make sure boots are not caught
between steel.




Injury from use of rotary
(helicopter) float.
Ensure that operators have adequate
training, skills and competency to
operate their equipment.
Ensure that the machine has been
properly maintained and that all guards
are fitted and operational.



Hearing damage from
operating machinery, vibrator
etc.



Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Noise.


PLACEMENT OF CONCRETE
cont
Shoveling
Manual Handling

Ensure correct manual handling
techniques are followed throughout
task. Avoid twisting while shovelling.
Ensure job rotation takes place
throughout the pour to minimise fatigue
and repetitive postures or movements.


Using Vibrator Vibration
Noise
Debris in eye
Fire, Burns
Manual Handling
Electrocution
Ensure job rotation takes place
throughout the pour to minimise fatigue
and vibration disorders. Vibrator to
have muffler fitted
All PPE to be worn, eye protection,
hearing protection, heavy duty gloves,
hard hat, steel cap footwear, UV
protection
No smoking in the work area of the
vibrator. Re-fuel engine of vibrator
when it has stopped and cooled, follow
manufactures operating manual. Fuel
to be stored in an appropriately labelled
container with fire extinguisher in close
proximity.
If using an electric powered vibrator,
ensure it has a current test tag. All
leads to be elevated off the ground and
off metal objects.


Screeding Manual Handling
Noise


Use a mechanical screed where
possible to avoid manual handling
injury.
Ensure correct manual handling




Debris in eye

techniques are followed throughout
task. Avoid twisting movements.
Always walk forward.
Machine to have manufacturers
muffler system fitted and ensure it is in
good working order.
All appropriate PPE to be worn for the
task, hearing protection, eye protection,
riggers gloves and UV protection
Bull float and hand trowelling Manual Handling
Trip hazards
Occupational overuse
syndrome
Fall from heights
Ensure job rotation takes place
throughout the pour to minimise fatigue
and repetitive postures or movements.
Ensure the work area is isolated from
other trades.
Adequate edge protection must be in
place i.e scaffold, screens.


Injury from use of rotary
(helicopter) float.
Ensure that operators have adequate
training, skills and competency to
operate their equipment.
Ensure that the machine has been
properly maintained and that all guards
are fitted and operational.


Hearing damage from
operating machinery, vibrator
etc.
Control as detailed above in General
Planning and General Safety Issues
Noise.


Use of Hazardous Substances Injury from exposure to
hazardous substances such
as concrete, concrete
additives, sealing
compounds.
Ensure MSDS (material safety data
sheet) is available and that workers are
trained and aware of hazards and
follow safety recommendations of the
MSDS.
Make sure that personal protective
equipment (e.g. rubber boots, goggles,
gloves) are worn.


Injury due from contact with
wet concrete and splashes in
eye.
Avoid contact of wet concrete and
skin/eyes and follow safety directions of
the MSDS such as rubber boots,
gloves, and eye protection to be worn.




Provide adequate water supply to work
area to flush concrete from eyes.
Collapse or breathing
difficulties from fumes given
off by fuelled plant and
equipment such as rotary
(helicopter) float, generator,
etc. used in poorly ventilated
spaces.
Use electric powered equipment in
preference to fuel powered equipment.

Do not operate fuel driven plant in
enclosed areas such as basements
unless adequate exhaust ventilation is
provided.

Formwork stripping Structural collapse


Workers being struck by
falling pieces of ply, bearers,
frames etc.
Ensure there is a specification for a
minimum concrete cure time before
dismantling. Do not allow formwork to
be removed prior to the concrete
reaching its required strength.
When stripping the underside of a
suspended floor slab, barricade the
area off from other workers. Make sure
people dismantling the formwork are
working from properly constructed
scaffolds or properly planked shoring
frames. Never allow "drop stripping" of
form ply and falsework.

Emergency response Suspension trauma / shock
following a fall while wearing
a harness
Ensure there is a secondary means of
access to all work areas.
Rescue procedures as documented














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