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.

Working at Heights

Scaffolding Erection and Dismantling — Safe Work Method Statement

Safe Work Method Statement for the erection, use and dismantling of tube-and-coupler and system scaffolding on construction sites. Applicable to scaffolding work involving a risk of falling more than 2 metres.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Hard HatSafety Harness and LanyardSafety Boots (Steel Capped)High Visibility VestSafety GlassesGloves

High Risk Construction Work Types

•Risk of a person falling more than 2 metres
•Use of scaffolding requiring a licence

Risk Assessment

1.Site inspection and establishment of exclusion zone

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Falling objects striking personnel below	High	Establish and barricade exclusion zone beneath work area. Erect signage. Appoint spotter. Ensure no personnel permitted under work area.	Low	Scaffolder / Site Supervisor
Uneven or unstable ground causing scaffold to collapse	High	Inspect ground bearing capacity. Use base plates and sole boards. Compact fill or place scaffold on concrete/hard-stand where possible.	Low	Scaffolder

2.Delivery and sorting of scaffold components

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Musculoskeletal injury from manual handling of heavy components	Moderate	Use mechanical assistance (crane, forklift) for heavy lifts. Use team lifts for components over 16 kg. Ensure clear walkways and proper footwear.	Low	Scaffolder
Trip and fall hazard from components left in work area	Moderate	Store components in designated laydown area. Keep access paths clear. Housekeeping checks before commencing work.	Low	Scaffolder

3.Erection of scaffold frame, ledgers and transoms

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Fall from height during erection	Catastrophic	Use temporary edge protection or fall arrest system during leading edge erection. Erect one bay at a time. All workers to hold scaffold ticket. No working from ladders above 2 m when alternative is available.	Moderate	Licensed Scaffolder
Scaffold component failure due to incorrect coupling	High	All couplers torqued to manufacturer specification. Inspect all couplers for cracks or deformation before use. Scaffold erected by licensed scaffolder only.	Low	Licensed Scaffolder
Dropped tools or components striking workers below	High	Use tool lanyards for all hand tools. Debris nets or brick guards installed at each lift level. Exclusion zone maintained.	Low	Scaffolder

4.Installation of scaffold planks, guardrails and toe boards

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Fall through or off incomplete platform	Catastrophic	Platforms to be fully planked with minimum 450 mm width. Install top rail (900–1100 mm), mid rail and toe board (150 mm min) before use. Inspect plank condition before installation.	Low	Licensed Scaffolder
Plank dislodgement causing fall	High	Cleats or hook planks to prevent uplift. Overlap planks minimum 300 mm over supports. Inspect planks for splits, knots and rot.	Low	Licensed Scaffolder

5.Scaffold handover inspection and tagging

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Scaffold used before completion, causing collapse or fall	Catastrophic	Scaffold not to be used until scaffold tag is completed by licensed scaffolder. Tag displayed at all access points. Supervisor to sign off before any trade accesses scaffold.	Low	Licensed Scaffolder / Site Supervisor

6.Dismantling of scaffold

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Fall from height during dismantling	Catastrophic	Dismantle in reverse order of erection. Use fall arrest where leading edge exposed. Reinstate exclusion zone. One bay dismantled at a time.	Moderate	Licensed Scaffolder
Dropped components during dismantling	High	Lower components using rope, crane or forklift. Do not throw components. Exclusion zone maintained throughout dismantling. Spotter at base.	Low	Licensed Scaffolder

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: ___________________