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.

Plumbing & Gas

Gas Fitting and Installation — Safe Work Method Statement

Safe Work Method Statement for the installation, connection, and commissioning of natural gas and LPG fitting systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, performed by licensed gas fitters in compliance with AS/NZS 5601 and Australian WHS Regulations.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Safety glasses or face shield (during pressure testing)Work glovesSteel-capped safety bootsHigh-visibility vest (when working near roads)Flame-resistant work clothingHard hat (where overhead hazards exist)

High Risk Construction Work Types

•Work involving the use of explosive-powered tools
•Work near energised services

Risk Assessment

1.Isolation of Existing Gas Supply

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Inadvertent gas release during isolation due to failed or unknown valve	Catastrophic	Before isolating, confirm the correct isolation valve location with the asset owner or network operator. Test valve operation with a gas detector downstream of the isolation point to confirm zero gas flow after closing. If the valve leaks past, immediately notify the gas network operator and do not proceed until the fault is rectified. Post 'GAS ISOLATED — DO NOT OPERATE' tags on all isolation valves. Maintain continuous gas detector operation in the immediate work area throughout the isolation process.	Low	Licensed Gas Fitter / Site Supervisor
Fire or explosion from undetected gas presence in work area	Catastrophic	Use a calibrated combustible gas detector to confirm zero gas concentration in the work area before commencing any work on gas fittings. If gas is detected above 10% LEL, evacuate the area immediately, ventilate, and contact the gas network operator. Do not reoccupy until readings are confirmed at zero by the gas network representative. Maintain gas detection throughout the task. No naked flames, welding, or spark-generating tools in the area until gas clearance is confirmed.	Low	Licensed Gas Fitter

2.Pipe Installation and Jointing

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Leaking joint due to incorrect threading or incomplete sealing	High	Use only approved thread sealants or fittings specified in AS/NZS 5601 for the gas type and pressure. Apply thread sealant in full coverage per manufacturer's application instructions. For compression fittings, tighten to the manufacturer's specified torque using a calibrated torque wrench. After all joints are made, conduct a pressure test per AS/NZS 5601 before the system is returned to service. Document all joint locations on an as-built mark-up and retain for the compliance certificate.	Low	Licensed Gas Fitter

3.Pressure Testing

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Pipe or fitting failure under test pressure causing projectile injury	High	Conduct low-pressure tightness test (air or inert gas) before high-pressure strength test. Use only inert gas (air or nitrogen) — never use oxygen or flammable gas for testing. Pressurise system gradually in increments, never exceed 1.5 x maximum allowable operating pressure. All workers must stand clear of potential failure points during pressurisation. If pressure drops indicate a leak, depressurise fully before investigating. Record test pressures, hold times, and outcomes on the test certificate.	Low	Licensed Gas Fitter

4.Appliance Connection and Commissioning

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Carbon monoxide (CO) buildup from incomplete combustion during commissioning	High	Ensure adequate natural ventilation exists for the appliance type and flue arrangement before commissioning. Conduct a flue integrity test per AS/NZS 5601 to confirm combustion products are properly exhausted. Use a calibrated CO analyser to check CO levels in the room immediately after commissioning each appliance. Acceptable level: below 25 ppm time-weighted average in the room. If CO exceeds acceptable level, shut off appliance, ventilate immediately, and investigate flue or combustion air system before re-lighting. Provide CO detector to the building owner and confirm correct operation.	Low	Licensed Gas Fitter

5.Completion, Purging, and Handover

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Accidental ignition during purging of gas into live system	Catastrophic	Purge the system outdoors or into a safe ventilated location, never inside a building. During purging, remove all ignition sources from the immediate area and post a spotter to keep the area clear. Monitor LEL continuously at the purge point — conclude purging only when 3 consecutive gas-free readings confirm complete gas breakthrough (or per AS/NZS 5601 purge volume calculation). Issue a Compliance Certificate (Certificate of Compliance for Gas Work) before the system is handed to the client. Provide the client with emergency isolation instructions.	Low	Licensed Gas Fitter

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: ___________________