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
Lead Paint Removal — Safe Work Method Statement
Safe Work Method Statement for the removal of lead-based paint from building surfaces using abrasive methods, chemical stripping, and heat methods, in compliance with Australian WHS regulations and Safe Work Australia guidance.
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Personal Protective Equipment
Full-face air purifying respirator with P3 and OV/P100 combination cartridge (AS/NZS 1716)Disposable Tyvek coverall with hoodNitrile gloves (minimum two pairs)Safety footwearSafety glasses (under respirator facepiece)
High Risk Construction Work Types
- •Work with or near hazardous chemicals
Risk Assessment
1.Lead paint identification and risk assessment
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unidentified lead paint disturbed without appropriate controls | High | Test all painted surfaces in areas to be worked on using an XRF (X-ray fluorescence) analyser or a lead paint test kit before commencing any paint removal or sanding. Document the lead content and location of all positive test results in the risk assessment and site register. Brief all workers on the locations of confirmed lead paint before work commences. Any surface with confirmed lead content to be treated as lead paint throughout the project. | Low | Site Manager / Competent Person |
2.Setting up containment and ventilation
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead dust spreading to adjacent areas and occupants | High | Seal the work area with polyethylene sheeting on floors and adjacent surfaces. If work is in an occupied building, establish negative pressure using an air scrubber with HEPA filtration exhausting to outside the building. Seal HVAC diffusers and returns within the work zone. Post warning signs at all entry points. Restrict access to authorised removal workers only. Where occupied areas adjoin the work zone, conduct lead air monitoring to verify containment is effective. | Low | Supervisor / Workers |
3.Mechanical removal (grinding, sanding, scraping)
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inhalation of lead dust during mechanical removal | High | Use shrouded power tools with on-tool HEPA vacuum extraction at all times during mechanical removal — do not use open grinders or sanders without extraction. Workers to wear full-face respirator with P100 cartridges throughout mechanical removal tasks. Wipe down surfaces with damp cloths regularly during work to suppress settled dust. Conduct personal air monitoring for all workers performing mechanical removal tasks exceeding 30 minutes per shift. Monitor blood lead levels for all workers per Safe Work Australia guidance (baseline, 3-monthly, post-exposure). | Moderate | Workers / HSE Manager |
4.Chemical stripping of lead paint
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skin and eye contact with chemical stripping agents | High | Read and comply with the SDS for all chemical strippers used. Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile minimum), safety goggles, and chemical-resistant apron. Apply stripper by brush in the direction away from the body. Do not use solvent-based strippers in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces — ensure adequate ventilation. Keep eyewash station within 10 m of work area. In case of skin or eye contact, wash immediately with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. | Low | Workers / Supervisor |
5.Cleanup, decontamination, and waste disposal
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ingestion of lead via contaminated hands, food, or surfaces | High | Strict hygiene controls to apply at all times in the lead work area: no eating, drinking, or smoking. Workers to wash hands and face thoroughly before eating, drinking, or using amenities. Decontaminate all PPE by HEPA vacuuming before removal. Shower before leaving the work area where practicable. Dispose of all lead paint waste (scrapings, contaminated plastic sheeting, PPE) in sealed, labelled containers as hazardous waste. Arrange licensed hazardous waste transport and disposal. Conduct surface wipe testing after cleanup to confirm residual lead levels are below regulatory limits before reopening the area. | Low | All Workers / Site Supervisor |
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: ___________________
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