Lead Paint Removal — Safe Work Method Statement

Covers the identification, containment and removal of lead-based paint from residential and commercial structures built prior to 1970. Includes encapsulation, wet scraping, chemical stripping and HEPA vacuum methods in accordance with AS 4361.1. Applies to any painted surface where lead content exceeds 1% by weight or 1.0 mg/cm².

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.

5 work steps 11 hazards identified 11 control measures 6 PPE items specified 7 AS/NZS standards cited 5×5 risk matrix Worker sign-off section

High-Risk Activity Categories

Hazardous Chemicals Confined Spaces

Legislation Referenced

WHS Reg 2011, Part 7.1 - Hazardous chemicals WHS Reg 2011, Reg 44 - Duties relating to hazardous chemicals WHS Reg 2011, Reg 50 - Health monitoring WHS Reg 2011, Part 3.1 - Managing risks to health and safety WHS Reg 2011, Reg 39 - Provision of information, training and instruction

PPE Requirements

Full-face powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) with P3 filter (AS/NZS 1716) Disposable coveralls (Type 5/6) (Category III Type 5/6) Chemical-resistant gauntlet gloves (AS/NZS 2161.10) Chemical splash goggles (AS/NZS 1337.1) Disposable overshoes (General duty) Non-slip enclosed footwear (dedicated site pair) (AS/NZS 2210.3)

Australian Standards Referenced

AS 4361.1 - Guide to lead paint management: Industrial applications AS/NZS 1716 - Respiratory protective devices AS/NZS 1715 - Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment AS/NZS 2311 - Guide to the painting of buildings AS 1940 - The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids AS/NZS 1337.1 - Personal eye protection NHMRC - Australian Guidelines for Lead Paint Management

$67.95

Buy This Document Buy Complete Painting Pack — Save $170

WHS Reg s.299 Compliant Editable Word Format Instant Download

See a sample document →

Not sure your existing swms is compliant? Run the free WHS compliance check →

Also Available As

JSA — $16.95 Toolbox Talk — $20.95 SOP — $33.95

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.