Concrete Pouring and Finishing — Safe Work Method Statement

Concrete pouring and finishing is a routine but hazard-intensive construction activity that triggers HRCW obligations under several categories in regulation 291 of the model WHS Regulations. Where the pour involves an elevated slab or formwork at height, the risks of falls exceeding 2 metres and structural collapse of formwork bring the work firmly within the HRCW framework, requiring a SWMS to be prepared and implemented before work begins.

There are no specific trade licences required for concrete finishing itself, but the work involves interaction with plant (concrete pumps, agitator trucks) and must comply with the relevant Australian standards. AS 3600 (Concrete Structures) governs structural design, while AS 1379 (Specification and supply of concrete) sets requirements for the concrete mix. Where a concrete pump is involved, the Safe Work Australia guidance on concrete pumping and AS 2550.15 apply to the plant operator. All plant operators must be trained and competent, and the pump must be registered under WHS Regulations if required.

The primary health risk from concrete work is dermal exposure to wet cement, which is highly alkaline and causes chemical burns and cement dermatitis with prolonged skin contact. Nitrile or rubber gloves and waterproof knee pads are essential PPE for finishing crews. Inhalation of concrete dust during mixing, dry sweeping, or grinding creates RCS exposure and must be controlled using water suppression or local exhaust ventilation. Manual handling hazards are significant — concrete buckets and hand tools used repetitively in awkward postures are a leading cause of musculoskeletal injury.

To customise this template, document the pour volume and method (direct from agitator, pump, crane and kibble), the formwork and falsework details if applicable, the site access route for the concrete truck, the mix design including any admixtures, and the weather conditions and their impact on pour scheduling. Elevated slab pours require a separate formwork SWMS addressing propping, stripping, and reshoring requirements.

This SWMS applies across all Australian jurisdictions. Victorian users should cross-reference the OHS Regulations 2017 and any WorkSafe Victoria guidance on concrete construction.