Important: This SWMS template is provided as a starting point only. It must be reviewed and customised to reflect the specific conditions, hazards, and controls for your workplace and task. The PCBU remains responsible for ensuring the SWMS is suitable for the specific work. This template does not constitute legal advice. Refer to your state or territory WHS regulator for compliance requirements.

Asbestos & Hazardous Materials

Asbestos Encapsulation — Safe Work Method Statement

Safe Work Method Statement for the encapsulation of non-friable asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in situ, using penetrating sealants, bridging sealants, or enclosing materials to prevent fibre release without full removal.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Half-face P2 respirator for non-friable ACM in good condition (AS/NZS 1716)Full-face P3 respirator for damaged or deteriorating ACMDisposable Tyvek coverall with hoodDisposable nitrile glovesSafety footwearSafety glasses

High Risk Construction Work Types

•Work with or near asbestos

Risk Assessment

1.Assessment and suitability determination for encapsulation

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Encapsulation applied to ACM not suitable for the method — leading to later fibre release	High	Commission a licensed asbestos assessor to inspect and assess the condition of all ACM proposed for encapsulation. Encapsulation is only appropriate for non-friable ACM in good structural condition with no delamination, crumbling, or water damage. Friable ACM, severely damaged non-friable ACM, or ACM in areas of high damage risk must be removed — not encapsulated. Document the assessor's findings and written recommendation in the asbestos register before encapsulation commences.	Low	Licensed Asbestos Assessor / Site Manager

2.Preparing the ACM surface for encapsulation

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Fibre release during surface preparation activities	High	Do not abrade, sand, grind, drill, or use high-pressure water on ACM surfaces. Clean surfaces by wet wiping with a damp cloth only — use amended water (PVA or wetting agent added). Where loose or detaching fibres are present, apply a first coat of penetrating encapsulant using a low-pressure spray or brush before any other surface work. Dispose of all wipes and cleaning materials as asbestos waste in sealed, labelled bags.	Low	Workers / Supervisor

3.Applying penetrating or bridging encapsulant

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Inadequate coverage leaving exposed ACM fibres	High	Apply encapsulant to manufacturer's specification — minimum film thickness and number of coats as directed. Use a brush for edges and corners before roller/spray application. Apply two coats with the second coat applied at 90° to the first. The encapsulant must penetrate into the matrix of the material (penetrating type) or form a continuous bridging film with no pinholes (bridging type). Inspect and document coverage after each coat — apply additional coats to any areas with inadequate film formation.	Low	Workers / Supervisor
Inhalation of encapsulant fumes in enclosed spaces	Moderate	Ensure adequate ventilation during and after encapsulant application — open all windows and doors and use forced-air ventilation fans where the space is enclosed. Read the SDS for the specific encapsulant product and comply with ventilation requirements. Do not use spray application in enclosed spaces without respiratory protection and enhanced ventilation. Monitor for product-specific exposure limits using personal air monitoring if required by the SDS.	Low	Workers / Supervisor

4.Enclosure installation over ACM

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Mechanical disturbance of ACM during enclosure installation	High	Where ACM is to be physically enclosed (e.g., plasterboard, rigid panels installed over it), design the enclosure so that no fasteners penetrate the ACM — use framing secured to adjacent structure only. If fastening into ACM cannot be avoided, wet the drill point first and use slow-speed drilling with on-tool HEPA vacuum extraction. Keep enclosure access panels clearly labelled 'ASBESTOS — DO NOT REMOVE'. Update the asbestos register to reflect the enclosure method and location.	Low	Workers / Supervisor / Site Manager

5.Waste management and site clearance

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Asbestos waste not identified or disposed of incorrectly	High	All materials that have contacted ACM (wipes, cleaning cloths, PPE, packaging materials, overspray materials) are asbestos waste and must be double-bagged in 200-micron labelled asbestos waste bags. Transport and dispose of asbestos waste via a licensed asbestos waste transporter to a licensed landfill. Retain waste disposal receipts. Have a licensed asbestos assessor conduct a visual clearance inspection after work is completed and before reoccupation. Update the asbestos register with details of the encapsulation work completed.	Low	Site Manager / Waste Transporter

Relevant Codes of Practice

Worker Acknowledgement

By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to comply with this Safe Work Method Statement.

Name: ___________________Date: ___________________