Load-Bearing Wall Removal — Safe Work Method Statement
Safe work procedures for the removal of load-bearing walls in residential and commercial buildings, including temporary propping, steel beam installation, and structural certification.
A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a legal requirement under WHS Regulations for any high-risk construction work in Australia. It identifies hazards, assesses risks using a 5×5 matrix, and sets out control measures following the hierarchy of controls. Our SWMS documents reference specific WHS Regulation clauses and AS/NZS standards for every piece of PPE, giving you audit-ready documentation that satisfies regulator requirements in every state and territory.
High-Risk Activity Categories
Legislation Referenced
PPE Requirements
Australian Standards Referenced
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Also Available As
Using This SWMS On Site
Keep the SWMS where the work is being carried out and have it available if the principal contractor asks for it. Workers named on it sign the acknowledgement page before starting, and it gets reviewed whenever the method, the site conditions or the crew change.
SWMS — Common Questions
When is a SWMS legally required?
Under WHS Regulation 299, a SWMS must be prepared before any high-risk construction work (HRCW) begins. This includes work at heights, demolition, work near energised electrical, excavation over 1.5m, and 18 other defined activities.
What should a SWMS include?
A compliant SWMS must identify the high-risk work, list hazards and risks, describe control measures using the hierarchy of controls, and be signed by the workers involved. Our documents include all required elements plus specific legislation references.
Who needs to sign a SWMS?
The PCBU (or employer in Victoria) who commissions the work, and every worker carrying out the high-risk construction work, must sign the SWMS before work begins.