If your work is high-risk construction work (HRCW), you must prepare a SWMS before it starts. The model WHS Regulations list 18 categories. Here they are, with what each one covers.
What counts as high-risk construction work?
A SWMS is required where construction work:
- Involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres
- Is carried out on a telecommunication tower
- Involves demolition of load-bearing or structural elements
- Involves, or is likely to involve, disturbing asbestos
- Involves structural alterations or repairs requiring temporary support to prevent collapse
- Is carried out in or near a confined space
- Is carried out in or near a shaft or trench deeper than 1.5m, or a tunnel
- Involves the use of explosives
- Is carried out on or near pressurised gas mains or piping
- Is carried out on or near chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines
- Is carried out on or near energised electrical installations or services
- Is carried out in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere
- Involves tilt-up or precast concrete
- Is carried out on, in or adjacent to a road, railway or other traffic corridor in use
- Is carried out in an area with powered mobile plant
- Is carried out in areas with artificial extremes of temperature
- Is carried out in or near water or other liquid with a risk of drowning
- Involves diving work
Note: Victoria operates under its own OHS Regulations, which use a similar but separately defined list. Check the requirements for your state in our SWMS requirements by state guide.
Which trades carry out high-risk construction work?
Most trades touch several of these. Excavation and civil work hits trenching, mobile plant and traffic; roofing and scaffolding hit falls over 2m; demolition hits structural removal and asbestos; electrical hits energised services. That's why a trade pack covers the full set of activities for your trade in one download.
How do you prepare a SWMS for high-risk work?
Find the SWMS for a specific activity in our individual SWMS catalogue, or get the complete set for your trade, plus free SOPs, with a trade pack. Still not sure if it applies to you? Start with Do I need a SWMS?
Get your SWMS sorted in minutes
State-specific, editable templates built by WHS professionals. Instant download.
This guide is general information, not legal or safety advice, and does not guarantee compliance. Laws and site conditions vary, so always check your state regulator and have documents reviewed by a competent person.