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.
Structural & Formwork

Timber Framing — Safe Work Method Statement

Safe Work Method Statement for the erection of timber wall frames, roof trusses and floor systems on residential and commercial construction projects. Applies where structural framing work involves a risk of falling more than 2 metres.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Hard HatSafety Boots (Steel Capped)High Visibility VestSafety GlassesGlovesHearing Protection (when using nail guns)

High Risk Construction Work Types

  • Risk of a person falling more than 2 metres
  • Structural alteration or repair that requires temporary support to prevent collapse

Risk Assessment

1.Material delivery, handling and storage

Hazard / RiskInitial RiskControl MeasuresResidual RiskResponsibility
Musculoskeletal injury from handling long or heavy timber membersModerateCrane or forklift to deliver timber to floor level. Team lifts for members over 16 kg. Appropriate footwear. Stack timber on level ground, blocked at regular intervals to prevent roll.LowAll Workers
Protruding nail injuriesModerateHammer down or remove protruding nails from waste timber immediately. Wear steel-capped boots. Maintain tidy work areas.LowAll Workers

2.Wall frame erection

Hazard / RiskInitial RiskControl MeasuresResidual RiskResponsibility
Wall frame collapse before bracing is installedCatastrophicTemporary diagonal bracing installed immediately as each panel is stood up. Minimum two braces per panel. No frame released until braced. Erection sequence planned in advance.LowCarpenter / Leading Hand
Workers struck by collapsing or falling frame panelCatastrophicExclusion zone established during frame erection. Only workers directly involved in erection within zone. Use crane or frame lifting equipment for large panels. Communication between lifting crew before lift.LowLeading Hand

3.Roof truss installation

Hazard / RiskInitial RiskControl MeasuresResidual RiskResponsibility
Fall from height during truss installationCatastrophicElevated work platform (EWP) or scaffold to be used for truss installation. Safety harness and anchor points when working at ridge. No walking along top chord of unsecured trusses.ModerateCarpenter / Crane Operator
Truss dropped during crane placementCatastrophicTrusses lifted by crane using spreader bar. Exclusion zone under lift. Dogman to guide with tag lines. Truss secured immediately upon placement.LowCrane Operator / Dogman

4.Use of nail guns and power tools

Hazard / RiskInitial RiskControl MeasuresResidual RiskResponsibility
Penetrating injury from nail gun misfireHighSequential-trip nail guns preferred over contact-trip. Never bypass safety mechanisms. Tool pointed away from body and other workers. Disconnect air supply when not in use. Only trained workers to operate.LowAll Workers

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: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________

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