SWMS template · Demolition
Manual Demolition — Safe Work Method Statement
Safe Work Method Statement for manual demolition of internal and external building elements including walls, ceilings, partitions and roofing. Applies where structural integrity of adjacent elements may be affected.
Last reviewed
- Category
- Demolition
- HRCW
- 2 categories
- Job steps
- 4
- Hazards rated
- 10
- PPE items
- 7
Manual demolition is classified as HRCW under regulation 291 of the model WHS Regulations specifically as "demolition of an element of a structure that is load-bearing or otherwise forms part of the structural system of the structure." A SWMS is mandatory before any manual demolition involving load-bearing elements begins, and the Safe Work Australia Model Code of Practice: Demolition Work is the primary reference document.
In most Australian states, demolition contractors must hold a demolition licence issued by the relevant building or WHS regulator. In NSW, a Demolition Contractor Licence is required for demolition of any structure over one storey; in Queensland, a demolition licence under the QBCC Act applies for structural demolition. The SWMS must be prepared by a competent person with knowledge of demolition hazards and controls before work commences.
Before any manual demolition begins, the structure must be assessed by a structural or demolition engineer to determine the safe sequence of element removal. An asbestos assessment must be completed by a licensed asbestos assessor, and all ACM must be removed or made safe before demolition proceeds. Services disconnection — gas, electricity, water, and telecommunications — must be confirmed in writing from the relevant authorities before demolition commences. Lead paint, PCBs, and other hazardous materials must also be identified and managed.
The primary hazards in manual demolition are structural collapse, falling objects, exposure to hazardous materials including asbestos and silica dust, and contact with live services. Exclusion zones sized to the height of the structure being demolished — or a minimum of 6 metres — should be established and enforced. Workers must not work below or adjacent to a partially demolished structure without engineering assessment of its stability.
Customise this template with the specific demolition sequence approved by the structural engineer, the services disconnection confirmation details, the asbestos and hazardous materials assessment outcomes, and the exclusion zone dimensions. This SWMS applies in all Australian states and territories. Victorian users should also reference OHS Regulations 2017 and the WorkSafe Victoria demolition compliance code.
Important: This SWMS template is a starting point only. Review and customise it for your workplace and task. The PCBU remains responsible for ensuring the SWMS is suitable for the work. Not legal advice.
High Risk Construction Work Types
- Risk of a person falling more than 2 metres
- Demolition of an element of a structure that is load-bearing or related to its physical integrity
Personal Protective Equipment
- Hard Hat
- Safety Glasses / Full Face Shield
- P2 Dust Respirator
- Safety Boots (Steel Capped)
- High Visibility Vest
- Heavy Duty Gloves
- Hearing Protection
Risk Assessment
RatingsCatastrophicHighModerateLow
Step 1Pre-demolition survey and service disconnection
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contact with live electrical services | Catastrophic | Engage licensed electrician to disconnect and isolate all electrical services before demolition commences. Obtain disconnection certificate. Visually confirm isolation. | Low | Licensed Electrician / Site Supervisor |
| Contact with live gas or water services | High | Engage licensed plumber to cap and disconnect gas and water supplies. Obtain as-built drawings. Use cable and service locator. Mark all known services. | Low | Licensed Plumber / Site Supervisor |
| Asbestos-containing materials disturbed without identification | Catastrophic | Commission asbestos survey (AS 4964) before any demolition. Review survey report. All ACM identified, labelled and managed per asbestos removal SWMS before demolition begins. | Low | Site Supervisor |
Step 2Establishment of exclusion zone and site preparation
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unauthorised personnel entering demolition zone | High | Erect hoarding or solid barrier around demolition zone. Signage at all entry points. Security/access control where required. Daily site induction for all personnel. | Low | Site Supervisor |
| Dust affecting neighbouring properties or public | Moderate | Wet demolition methods where possible. Dust suppression sprays. Hoarding to contain dust. Notify neighbours. Wind direction monitoring. | Low | Site Supervisor |
Step 3Manual demolition of non-structural elements (walls, ceilings, partitions)
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Collapse of structural element onto workers | Catastrophic | Demolition engineer to review structural drawings and issue written demolition sequence. Temporary propping installed before adjacent structural elements removed. Do not deviate from approved sequence. | Moderate | Demolition Contractor / Site Supervisor |
| Eye and face injuries from flying debris | High | Full face shield over safety glasses mandatory. All workers facing away from breaking direction where possible. | Low | All Workers |
| Respiratory exposure to silica dust or hazardous fibres | High | P2 respirator mandatory. Wet demolition where practicable. Air monitoring where silica risk identified. Air monitoring records to be kept. | Low | All Workers |
Step 4Removal and disposal of demolition materials
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musculoskeletal injury from manual handling of heavy debris | Moderate | Break large elements into manageable pieces before manual handling. Use skip chutes, conveyors or mechanical equipment for bulk debris. Team lifts for items over 16 kg. | Low | All Workers |
| Incorrect disposal of hazardous waste | High | Separate waste streams. Hazardous materials to licensed waste contractor only. Manifest/consignment notes retained. No mixing of ACM with general waste. | Low | 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.
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