IPWEA Roadwork OHS

IPWEA (NSW)
ROADS & TRANSPORT

DIRECTORATE
OH&S Requirements for

Road Work
OH&S Requirements for Road Work

First Published October 2009
IPWEA (NSW) Roads & Transport Directorate 2009
This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no
part may be reproduced by any process without the prior written permission of the IPWEA
(NSW) Roads & Transport Directorate
National Library of Australia
Cataloguing-in-Publication data
ISBN 978-0-9805503-5-1
Project Manager
Mick Savage
Prepared for the Roads Directorate Institute of Public Works Engineering (NSW)
by John Kauter
Engineering Management Consulting Pty Ltd
in consultation with Turtle Street Safety
Published by IPWEA (NSW) Roads & Transport Directorate
Level 12, 447 Kent Street
Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
Phone: +61 2 8267 3000
Fax: +61 2 9283 5255
Email: msavage@ipwea.org.au
www.roadsdirectorate.org.au
DISCLAIMER
While the report deals with legal issues, the report does not purport to be either definitive or
comprehensive in addressing the OHS issues associated with roadwork. The report provides
an indication of what is required and where the basis of the requirements may be sourced.
Users of the report should reference the source documents (NSW OHS Act 2000, NSW OHS
Regulation 2001, WorkCover Codes of Practice etc) in determining the appropriate course of
action for their situation.
Further, the report provides a number of examples. These are generic examples to
demonstrate how issues might be addressed.
The NSW OHS Act 2000 and the NSW Act Regulation 2001 require materials
prepared for OHS purposes be site specific.
Users of report must satisfy themselves the materials they use address the
requirements of legislation as it applies to them.
Index
Introduction
Road Works Safety Management
OHS Systems NSW Government Guidelines
OHS Systems AS NZS
PSMP
SSMP
Site Safety Rules
SWMS Regulation
SWMS NSW Guidelines
10
Induction
11
Principal Contractor & PSMP
12
Principal Contractor & SWMS
13
Sub Contractors
14
Employers
15
Controllers
16
Safe Work Practices
17
When to Prepare SWPs
18
Proforma SWP
19
Suggested List of SWPs for Road Works
20
WorkCover
21
Codes of Practice
22
WorkCover Safety Guides (Aug/08)
23
WorkCover Safety Alerts
25
Example SWP Manual handling (1)
26
27
28
29
Example SWMS Layout (1)
30
31
32
Navigation
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Introduction
INTRODUCTION
FRAMEWORK
The IPWEA Roads and Transport Directorate Management

Committee had been pursuing a Standard Operating
Procedures Project since July 2006.
The framework of the report is an overview of OHS

requirements to guide those engaged in roadwork to
their responsibilities and accountabilities and how those
responsibilities may be addressed.
The objectives of the project are:

Review applicable Legislation

Development of Definitions
List Issues to be addressed
Propose a Policy Statement
Develop Generic Templates
The need for the project arose from a number of

considerations, including:
The desire of Councils to provide safe workplaces,
The expectation of employees that they will be able to
carry out their employment tasks without injury,
The expectation of the community that workplaces will
be safe and
The legal requirement that safety be built into all
workplaces.
This is through a series of flow charts addressing the
main requirements of the legislation etc.

Where applicable the source of the requirement (Act,
Regulation, Code of Practice, Standard etc) is referenced
to assist in users being able to satisfy themselves of the
requirement and the necessary action. Relevant sections
are quoted directly into the report.
At best the report is a summary of OHS requirements. The
full detail of the requirements is contained in the legislation,
codes etc.
COMMENT
The NSW OHS legislation imposes considerable
responsibility and accountability on all those engaged in
roadwork.
SCOPE
The OHS Act 2000 provides:
The scope of this report is:
In any proceedings for an offence against a provision of

this Act or the regulations, the onus of proving that a person
had a reasonable excuse (as referred to in the provision) lies
with the defendant.
The impact of the OHS legislation on road works and

the actions required to be taken by local road authorities
in New South Wales to meet their obligations under the
legislation.
The report does not:
Generally address the OHS requirements for
organisations. For example, the report does not
specifically address the requirements in the NSW OHS
Act 2000 s.17 Establishment of OHS committees .....
It is a report for local road authorities to undertake road
works. The report focuses on issues directly effecting
road works (although many of the issues are applicable
to other council activities), nor,
Deal with other legislative matters (e.g. The Roads Act
1993, Road Transport (Safety and Traffic Management)
Act 1999) except where they may impact on OHS.
It should follow that those engaged in roadwork need to

understand their responsibilities and accountabilities so that:
they can meet those requirements,
provide a safe workplace, and
when an incident occurs, be able to provide a reasonable
excuse.
Road Works Safety Management
Construction work means civil engineering, including

... roads and highways
OHS Reg Cl 3
Because
Road Work is High

Risk Construction
Because
It involves construction work near traffic or mobile plant

OHS Reg Cl 209 (g)
Because
high risk construction work is being undertaken

OHS Reg Cl 210
Therefore
Road Work is
Construction Work
A Principal Contractor
must be appointed
The Principal Contractor may be the owner or a person appointed by the owner
OHS Reg Cl 210(5)
ensure that OHS Induction

training undertaken
OHS Reg Cl 213
keep records
OHS Reg Cl 223
The Duties of
the Principal
Contractor
are:
Only required where

construction work
is being undertaken
and the cost of the
works exceeds
$250,000
OHS Reg Cl 226(1)
prepare an OHS
management plan
OHS Reg Cl 226
provide safe work method

statements
OHS Reg Cl 227
keep a register of hazardous

substances
OHS Reg Cl 228
OHS Systems NSW Government Guidelines
The NSW Government Occupational Health and Safety Management System Guidelines (Edition 4, June 2004) prescribe
OHS management systems as below.
Corporate OHS Management System
Project OHS Management Plan (PSMP)
4 Tier OHS
System
Site-specific Safety Management Plan (SSMP)
Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)
Management Responsibility
Communication & Consultation
Service Providers
Purchasing
Design
Risk Management
Key
Elements of
Management
System
Training
Inspection, Testing & Servicing
Incident Management & Corrective Action
Handling, Storage, Packaging & Delivery
Internal Reviews
Documentation & Records
These key elements are the same as the RTA OHS Specifications
(with some minor changes to the wording of the descriptions)
OHS Systems AS NZS
OHS Management Systems

AS/NZS 4801:2000 Occupational health and safety management systems
General
requirements
OHS Policy
Planning identification of hazards, hazard/risk
assessment and control of hazards/risks
Legal and other requirements
Planning
Objectives and targets OHS
Management plans
The Standard
AS/NZS
4801:2000
Occupational
Health and
Safety
Management
Systems
Describes
the following
features of
management
systems
Structure and responsibility

Training and competency
Consultation, communication and reporting
Implementation
Documentation
Document and data control
Hazard identification, hazard/risk assessment
and control of hazards/risks
Emergency preparedness and response
Monitoring and measurement
Measurement and
evaluation
Incident investigation, corrective and

preventive action
Records and records management
OHSMS audit
Management review
PSMP
A statement of responsibilities, listing the names, positions and responsibilities of all

persons who will have specific responsibilities on the site for Occupational, Health
and Safety
Details of arrangements for ensuring compliance with the occupational health and
safety induction training requirements that are set out in Part 8.2 of the Regulation
A PSMP
must include
OHS Reg
226(3)
Details of the arrangements for managing occupational health and safety incidents,
including the identity of and contact details for the person or persons who will be
available to prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from occupational health
and safety incidents
Any site safety rules and details of the arrangements for ensuring that all persons
at the place of work (whether employees or visitors) are informed of the rules
Safe work method statements for all work activities assessed as
having safety risks
Management Responsibility
Communication & Consultation
Service Providers
Purchasing
Design
A PSMP
must address
(NSW OHS
Guidelines)
Risk Management
Training
Inspection, Testing & Servicing
Incident Management & Corrective Action
Handling, Storage, Packaging & Delivery
Internal Reviews
Documentation & Records
These requirements are the same as the RTA OHS Specifications
SSMP
A statement of responsibilities, listing the names, positions and responsibilities

of all persons who will have specific responsibilities on the site for Occupational,
Health and Safety
Details of arrangements for ensuring compliance with the occupational health and
safety induction training requirements that are set out in Part 8.2 of the Regulation
A SSMP
must include
OHS Reg 226
Details of the arrangements for managing occupational health and safety incidents,
including the identity of and contact details for the person or persons who will be
available to prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from occupational health and
safety incidents
Any site safety rules and details of the arrangements for ensuring that all persons
at the place of work (whether employees or visitors) are informed of the rules
Safe work method statements for all work activities assessed as having
safety risks
The RTA G22 Annexure D does not include the explanations below
A SSMP
must address
(NSW OHS
Guidelines)
Risk Management
Identification of the hazards and assessment of the risks

associated with the work, and documentation of the risk
control measures to be taken.
Statement of
Responsibilities
A statement that nominates individuals who will be

responsible for the site-specific OHS aspects of the
work, and who will be available to deal with illness/
injury and OHS incidents.
OHS Training
A statement identifying the training needs of personnel

on the work site, including OHS induction training for the
work, and arrangements to address those needs.
Incident
Management
A statement identifying the processes to be used and

personnel available to prevent, prepare for, respond to
and recover from illness/injury and incidents.
Site Safety Rules
Safety rules that should be displayed in prominent areas

on the work site.
Safe Work Method

Statements
Statements for all work activities identified as having

health or safety risks, identifying the measures to be used
to manage those risks. Particular attention should be
paid to work activities with a high safety risk (for example
working at heights, with or near hazardous substances,
in tunnels or confined spaces, with cranes, with
compressed air, with lasers, or in deep excavations).
These requirements are the same as the RTA OHS Specifications

Site Safety Rules
NSW OHS
Management System
Guidelines (Edition 4)
Organisations must prepare and implement Site Safety Rules, display them on
noticeboards and other suitable locations on the work site, and provide them to all
personnel who may work on the site and visitors to the site.
The Site Safety Rules must cover and include, but are not limited to, the following.
Before starting work on site all personnel must attend induction training in
health and safety aspects of general construction work.
Induction and safety

training
Before starting work on site all personnel must attend adequate site-specific induction
training and induction training for the particular work activity being undertaken.
All personnel on the work site must attend appropriate refresher training and be
involved in regular discussion of work site OHS matters.
All visitors when on the work site must be accompanied by a person who has
received the above training.
Personal protective
equipment
All personnel and visitors must wear appropriate personal protective equipment
(PPE) when on the work site.
Site access and security
All entry to, movement on, passage adjacent to, and exit from, the work
site of persons, vehicles and equipment will be controlled in accordance
with required procedures.
Illness/injury and
emergency procedures
All first aid facilities and illness/injury and emergency procedures will be clearly
identified and used, including reporting illness/injury and incidents.
Protection of all workers

and the public
Effective barricades, fencing and overhead protection will be used.
Elevated work
All work at heights will be done in accordance with the relevant legislation, regulations,
standards, codes and procedures.
Electrical work, overhead

wiring, installations and
equipment
Demolition, excavation,
formwork and other
structural frames
Hazardous materials
and dangerous goods
All electrical work, plant and equipment must comply with OHS and electrical safety
legislation, regulations, standards, codes and procedures, including inspection and
tagging of leads and power tools.
The presence and location of all electrical cables will be identified before
commencing adjacent work.
All demolition, excavation, formwork and work with other structural frames will be done
in accordance with the relevant legislation, regulations, standards, codes and
procedures.
All hazardous substances and dangerous goods must be used, handled and stored in
accordance with requirements.
A register of hazardous substances must be kept and maintained for all hazardous
substances brought onto the work site.
The consumption of alcohol and illegal drugs is prohibited on the work site.
Safe working
All requirements identified will be followed, including fire prevention

and housekeeping procedures.
SWMS Regulation
Describes how work is to be carried out
Identifies the work activities assessed as having safety risks
Identifies the safety risks
A Safe Work
Method
Statement
(OHS Reg Cl 224)
Describes the control measures that will be applied to the work activities
(See Note below)
Description of the equipment used
The standards or codes to be complied with

A SWMS
includes
The qualifications of the personnel doing the work
The training required to do the work
The requirement that the SWMS describes the control measures that will be applied to the work activities implies there
should be a clear nexus, in the SWMS, between the activity, the safety risk and the control measure.
The SWMS format should be such that a clear relationship between the activity and the safety risk and the control
measure(s) is evident. Typically, to achieve this objective, the activity, safety risk and control measure(s)
would be on the same row / line in a table..
Neither the Act, the Regulation nor the NSW Guidelines require a Job Safety Analysis as such. What they require is a
assessment of the risks associated with the work to be carried out and preparation of a written safe work method
statement. (OHS Reg Cl 227(4)(a)). The risk assessment may (and probably preferably) be included in the SWMS.
SWMS NSW Guidelines

Safe Work Method Statements must be prepared and implemented for all work activities assessed
as having OHS risks. Particular attention should be paid to work activities with a high safety risk. (RTA G22
refers to High Risk Construction Activities)
When preparing Safe Work Method Statements, the personnel who are to follow them must be consulted and involved.
This will help improve, and encourage their ownership of the required actions and procedures in the Statements.
The potential hazards and risks associated with each step of the work
The safety controls that will be put in place to minimise these risks
All precautions to be taken to protect health and safety
All health and safety instructions to be given to persons involved with the work
Identification of the applicable sections of OHS, workplace injury management and
workers compensation legislation, regulations, codes, standards and procedures
applicable to the work, and where these documents are kept
Safe Work
Method
Statements
must at least
include
The names and qualifications of those who will supervise the work
The names and qualifications of those who will inspect and approve work
area conditions, work methods, protective measures, plant, equipment and
power tools for use
A description of what training is given to people involved with the work
The names of those who will be, or have been, trained for the work activities
described in the Safe Work Method Statements, and the names and qualifications
of those responsible for training them
Identification of the resources, plant and equipment that is most likely to be used on
the work site, such as ladders, scaffolds, grinders, electrical leads, welding machines,
fire extinguishers, tools and materials
Details of any WorkCover permits required to complete the work and
where they are kept
Details of the inspection and maintenance checks that will be, or have been, carried
out on the plant and equipment listed for use.
All the organisations service providers must be directed to comply with the Safe Work Method Statements that they have
been provided with or they have developed.
Safe Work Method Statements must be maintained and kept up to date. All relevant personnel must be consulted, provided
with access to copies of it, and retrained in its use, when a Safe Work Method Statement is changed.
During the course of the work, if further activities are identified as having OHS risks, acceptable Safe Work Method
Statements must be developed for these activities before work commences. Safe Work Method Statements should be
attached to or incorporated into the associated Site-specific Safety Management Plan and kept up to date.
10
Induction
All people undertaking construction work must have OHS induction.

OHS induction is at three (3) levels.
The topics to be covered for each level of induction are detailed in the
Code of practice: Occupational health and safety induction training for construction
Level 1
(OHS Regulation 217)
General health and safety
induction
This induction must be by a WorkCover approved course provided

by an accredited trainer or an approved organisation.
WorkCover will issue a General Induction for Construction
Work in NSW card the White Card
Level 2
Work activity based
induction
This induction does not have to be provided by a Trainer unless it is

undertaken as formal training.
WorkCover does not issue a Card the organisation may.
Refer to Note below.
Level 3
Site specific health and
safety induction
This induction does not have to be provided by a Trainer, but the persons
conducting must have the relevant knowledge and/or experience to
competently provide the training. (COP) WorkCover does not issue a Card
the organisation may
Records
Level 1
A written statement by trainer (COP).
Level 2
A written statement by
trainer (COP)
If the induction was not provided by a

trainer then it is recommended that
records be created by notation being
made on relevant SWMS etc or through
ToolBox Meeting Records.
Level 3
A brief description of
the site specific training
undertaken by the
person at the particular
construction site. (COP)
It is recommended that records be

created by notation being made on
relevant SWMS etc or through ToolBox
Meeting Records.
Note:
In relation to Level 2 induction, this is an interpretation based on reading the Act, Regulation and Code of Practice and
discussions with WorkCover inspectors. It reflects the view of WorkCover inspectors interviewed.
The Code of Practice commenced on 1 April 1999 and pre-dates both the Act and the Regulation and refers to the
Construction Safety Regulations. The Construction Safety Regulations 1950 is listed in the repealed regulations in Clause
3 of the Act.
Accordingly there are aspect of the COP that are out of date and perhaps, at least in this case, inconsistent with the
current legislation.
11
Principal Contractor & PSMP
The Principal Contractor must ensure:
a plan is prepared
for each place of work
before the work
commences
OHS Reg Cl 226(2) (a)
And
the plan is maintained and kept up to date

OHS Reg Cl 226(2) (b)
a statement of responsibilities, listing the names, positions and

responsibilities of all persons who will have specific responsibilities
on the site for Occupational, Health and Safety
details of arrangements for ensuring compliance with the occupational
health and safety induction training requirements that are set out in
Part 8.2 of the Regulation
the plan includes

OHS Reg Cl 226(3)
details of the arrangements for managing occupational health and safety

incidents, including the identity of and contact details for the person or persons
who will be available to prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from
occupational health and safety incidents
any site safety rules and details of the arrangements for ensuring that
all persons at the place of work (whether employees or visitors)
are informed of the rules
safe work method statements for all work activities assessed

as having safety risks
a copy of the plan is

available for inspection
by OHS Reg Cl
226(4)
any person working at the place of work concerned and by any person
about to commence work at that place
an employee member of an OHS committee, an OHS representative, a
person elected by the persons employed at the place of work to represent a
group of employees on health and safety matters or (if the employees so agree)
an appropriate representative of an industrial organisation of employees.
The principal contractor must ensure that a copy of any parts of the occupational health and safety management plan that
are relevant to a sub-contractor are provided to the sub-contractor before the sub-contractor commences work at the place
of work concerned. OHS Reg Cl 226(5)
if any change is made to the... plan during the course of the construction work, a copy of any part of the plan
that has been changed and that is relevant to a sub-contractor is provided to the sub- contractor as soon as
practicable after the change is made OHS Reg Cl 226(6)
12
Principal Contractor & SWMS
that each sub-contractor, before commencing work at a place of work, provides the
principal contractor with a written safe work method statement for the work to be
carried out by the sub-contractor.
OHS Reg Cl 227(2)
The Principal
Contractor
must ensure:
a sub-contractor is
directed to comply with
OHS Reg Cl 227(3)(a)
the safe work method statement that the

sub-contractor has provided
the activities of a subcontractor are monitored

... to determine whether
the sub-contractor is
complying with
OHS Reg Cl 227(3)(b)
the requirements of the Act

and ... Regulation
if the sub-contractor is not so complying, the sub-contractor is directed to take action

immediately to comply with the safe work method statement or the requirements of
the Act and this Regulation, or both
OHS Reg Cl 227(3)(c)
if a risk to the health or safety of a person arises because of the non-compliance,
the sub-contractor is directed to stop work immediately and not to resume work
until the safe work method statement or those requirements, or both, are
complied with, unless an immediate cessation of work is likely to increase the
risk to health and safety, in which event the sub-contractor must be directed
to stop work as soon as it is safe to do so.
OHS Reg Cl 227(3)(d)
If there are
no subcontractors
for the
construction
work, the
principal
contractor
must
OHS Reg
CI 227 (4)
undertake an assessment of the risks associated with the work to be carried out and
prepare a written safe work method statement that includes a copy of the assessment
of risks
OHS Reg Cl 227(4)(a)
maintain and keep up to date the statement
OHS Reg Cl 227(4)(b)
ensure that the work is carried out in accordance with the statement
OHS Reg Cl 227(4)(c)
if a risk to the health or safety of a person arises because of non-compliance with the
statement, ensure that work is stopped immediately and not resumed until the
statement is complied with (unless an immediate cessation of work is likely to increase
the risk to health and safety, in which event the principal contractor must stop the work
as soon as it is safe to do so)
OHS Reg Cl 227(4)(d)
13
Sub Contractors
The responsibilities of sub-contractors (below) are in addition to those they

have as employers) OHS Reg Cl 225
has been provided by the principal contractor for the construction work with a
copy of the parts of the occupational health and safety management plan for the
place of work that are relevant to the sub-contractor
OHS Reg 229(a)
A subcontractor must
not commence
work
unless it
has undertaken an assessment of the risks associated with the work to be

carried out and provided to the principal contractor a written safe work method
statement that includes a copy of the assessment of risks
OHS Reg 229(a)
has completed induction training with respect to occupational health and

safety as specified in the occupational health and safety management plan
for the place of work
OHS Reg 229(a)
14
Employers
Council, as the employer,

MUST ENSURE
(no qualifications)
OHS Act 2000
The health, safety and welfare at work of all the employees of the
employer.
That people (other than the employees of the employer) are not
exposed to risks to their health or safety arising from the conduct of the
employers undertaking while they are at the employers place of work.
Identify hazards
Assess risks
Eliminate or control risks
Review risk assessments and control measures
Provide instruction, training and information
Provide supervision
To do this an employer
must
(some qualifications)
OHS Regulation 2001
Provide personal protective equipment

Obtain information
Provide for emergencies
Provide amenities
Maintain amenities and accommodation
Ensure OHS induction training undertaken
Keep records
These responsibilities a council has as an employer are in addition to those council has as a
Principal Contractor, Sub-Contractor, Owner and Controller
15
Controllers
A controller of premises means a person who has control of premises used by people as a
place of work (OHS Reg 33)
A Controller
includes:
(OHS Act 10 (4))
a person who has only limited control of the premises, plant or substances
(in which case any duty under this section applies only to the matters over
which the person has control)
a person who has, under any contract or lease, an obligation to maintain or

repair the premises, plant or substances (in which case any duty under this
section applies only to the matters covered by the contract or lease)
Duties of a
Controller
ensure that the premises are safe and without risks to health
Premises
(OHS Act 10)
Duties of a
Controller
Plant or
Substance
ensure that the plant or substance is safe and without risks to health when
properly used
(OHS Act 10)

Identify hazards
Duties of a
Controller
Premises
(OHS Reg Div 1)
Assess risks
Eliminate or control
Review risk assessments and control measures
Provide information
Control: The act or power of directing or regulating; command, regulating influence. (OED)
16
Safe Work Practices
Safe Work Practices are Level 3 in the hierarchy of control measures and reference may be made
to them, to control risk, in Safe Work Method Statements. They may cover training and
instruction.
Background
There has been some confusion in the terminology used. Some organisations have used the term Standard Operating
Procedure when referring to SWMS. There is no reference to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in the NSW OHS
Act or Regulation. Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) are defined and that term should be applied to documents
and records which address the requirements of the OHS Act and Regulation.
There is a reference to Safe Work Practices in the WorkCover Code of Practice Occupational Health and Safety
Training for Construction. There are references to Standard Operating Procedures in the WorkCover Codes of Practice:
Safe Handling Storage of Enzymatic Detergent Powders and Liquids and Work Near Overhead Power Lines.
Safe Work Practices (in the WorkCover Code) are Level 3 in the hierarchy of control measures and may cover training
and instruction. They would be referenced from a Safe Work Method Statement. For example if a SWMS identified a
Manual Handling hazard the Control Measure may be a reference to the Manual Handling Safe Work Practice.
The recommended format for Safe Work Practices follows that for quality procedures. A typical SWP will contain:
Purpose:
Scope:
Responsibilities:
References:
Description of activities:
Records:
The reason for preparing a procedure

What the procedure covers (and what it does not cover)
Who has the responsibility for actions
Documents covered by the procedure
A description of the actions to be carried out, in sequence and by whom
What records are produced as a result of following the procedure
The Description of activities section should be in the most suitable format (this may be formal, list, flowchart etc)
17
When to Prepare SWPs
When the operation involves regular undertaking of a procedure
Construction work involving structural alterations that require temporary support

Construction work involving excavation to a depth greater than 1.5 metres
Construction work at a height above 3 metres
For Defined
High Risk
Construction
Work
OHS Reg
Cl 209
Demolition work for which a licence is not required under Chapter 10 to carry
on the business of that work
Construction work in tunnels
Construction work involving the use of explosives
Construction work near traffic or mobile plant
Construction work over or adjacent to water where there is a risk of drowning
Construction work in or around gas or electrical installations
Chapter 4
Work
premises
and working
environment
Work premises
Use of places of work
Manual handling
Long distance truck driver fatigue
Design, manufacture and registration of plant
Chapter 5
Plant
Supply of plant
Working with plant
Items identified
by Chapters in
the Regulation
Chapter 6
Hazardous
substances
Chapter 6A
Dangerous goods
Chapter 7
Hazardous
processes
Manufacture of hazardous substances

Supply of hazardous substances
Use of hazardous substances
OHS induction training construction work
Special workplace arrangements for
construction work
Control of risk arising during construction work
Excavation work particular provisions
Chapter 8
Construction
work
Demolition particular provisions

Asbestos particular provisions
Diving work particular provisions
18
Proforma SWP
Safe Work Practice

1
TITLE:
FILE NO:
PURPOSE:
SCOPE:
REFERENCES:
DEFINITIONS:
RESPONSIBILITY AND AUTHORITY:
DESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITIES:
RECORDS:
The following records are kept in relation to this procedure:

Document No
Document Name
19
Suggested List of SWPs for Road Works
SWP
OHS Regulation
Code of Practice
Safety Guide
Manual handling
Part 4.4 Manual handling
Manual handling
Manually moving heavy objects...

Hoist operators guide
Working with plant
Part 5.4 Working with

plant 209 high risk
construction
Moving plant on
construction sites
Forklift truck guide

Front end loader and excavator
drivers guide
Safe use of tractors: guide
Hazardous
substances and
dangerous goods
Ch 6 Hazardous
substances
Ch 6A Dangerous goods
Storage and handling of

dangerous goods
Control of workplace
hazardous substances
Labelling of workplace
substances
Safe use and storage of
chemicals in agriculture
Excavation
Chemical emergency guide

Dangerous goods and hazardous
substances in agriculture
Managing chemical hazards in
the workplace
Placards, manifest and
notifications: When are they
required?
Safe use of pesticides

and herbicides in nonagricultural workplaces
Reading labels and MSDS
Safe work on roofs
Portable ladders
Supply of chemical and

substances to workplaces
Ch 8 Construction
Working at height
Ch 4.2 Work premises

Div 6 Working at heights
Ch 8 Construction
Asbestos
Ch 4.2 Work premises

Ch 6 Hazardous substances
Ch 8 Construction
Confined Spaces
Ch 4.3 Use of places

of work
Power and utility

lines
Ch 8 Construction
Personal protective
equipment
Ch 2 Places of work
risk management and
other matters
Working with asbestos: guide
Work near overhead

powerlines
Utilities working at height rescue

Work near underground assets
High visibility clothing
Safety helmets for head
protection on construction sites
Skin cancer for outdoor workers
Working in isolation
Danger and outof-service tags
Use of tools (incl
electrical safety)
20
Div 8 Electricity
Electrical practices for

construction work
Chainsaw safety
Operators of explosive
powered tools guide
WorkCover
Codes of Practice
Codes of Practice provide practical guidance (OHS Act 2000 Cl 40)
It is not an offence not to follow a Code of Practice (OHS Act 2000 Cl 46(2)),
but ...
In any proceedings
for an offence against
this Act or the
regulations OHS Act
Cl 46 (1)
OHS Act 2000

Part 6
an approved industry code of practice that is relevant to any matter which it

is necessary for the prosecution to prove to establish the commission of the
offence by a person is admissible in evidence in those proceedings
OHS Act Cl 46 (1)(a)
the persons failure at any material time to observe the code is evidence of
the matter to be established in those proceedings OHS Act Cl 46 (1)(b)
To correct an alleged breach of the Act or regulation, a person or organisation

must follow the advice and information provided in the code of practice if
directed by a WorkCover inspector. (WorkCover Web Site)
Standards
Standards set out the safety requirements and provide guidance for persons working in specific areas or
who deal with particular equipment.
It is not an offence not to follow a Standard, except where it is included in the Acts or Regulations,
but ...
When a Standard is
used in a Code of
Practice
Then it is part of the Code of Practice (refer above)
OHS Act 2000

Part 6
An inspector may include a reference to a Standard in a notice.
21
Codes of Practice
Codes of Practice (as at 31/03/2008)
Amenities for Construction Work
Amenity Tree Industry
Cash in Transit
Collection of Domestic Waste
Control of Workplace Hazardous Substances
Control of Work-Related Exposure to Hepatitis and HIV
(Blood-borne) Viruses
Electrical practices for construction work: Code of Practice
Excavation
Facade Retention
Formwork
Safe Handling Storage of Enzymatic Detergent Powders

and Liquids
Safe Use and Storage of Chemicals (including Herbicides
and Pesticides) in Agriculture: Code of Practice
Safe Use of Bulk Solids Containers and Flatbed Storage
including Silos, Field Bins and Chaser Bins: Code of
Practice
Safe use of pesticides including herbicides in nonagricultural workplaces
Safe Use of Synthetic Mineral Fibres
Safe Use of Vinyl Chloride
Safe Work on Roofs
Safe Work on Roofs Part 2 Residential building
Labelling of Workplace Substances
Safety Aspects in the Design of Bulk Solids Containers

including Silos, Field Bins and Chaser Bins
Low Voltage Electrical Work
Safety in Forest Harvesting Operations
Manual Handling: National Code of Practice
Sawmilling Industry
Mono-strand Post-tensioning of Concrete Buildings
Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods
Moving Plant on Construction Sites
Technical Guidance
Noise Management and Protection of Hearing at Work
Tunnels Under Construction
Occupational Health and Safety Consultation
Work in hot or cold environments
Occupational Health and Safety Induction Training for

Construction
Work Near Overhead Power Lines: Code of Practice
Overhead Protective Structures

Preparation of Material Safety Data Sheets
Prevention of Occupational Overuse Syndrome: National
Code of Practice
Risk Assessment
Rural Workers Accommodation Amendment Act 2005
No 37 Safe Handling of Timber Preservatives and Treated
Timber
22
Workplace Amenities
WorkCover Safety Guides (Aug/08)

15 minute Farm Safety Checklist
Front End Loader and Excavator Drivers Guide
Aluminium Phosphide Tablets: Fact Sheet
Greens, Gardens and Grounds: Guide
Armed Hold-ups and Cash Handling: A Guide to Protecting

People and Profits from Armed Hold-Ups
Guidance Note: Working with Asbestos in the Motor Vehicle

Repair Industry
Amenities on housing sites
Guide for Fork Lift Truck Drivers
Artificial Climbing Structures and Operation
Guide to the Safe Use of Tractors
Babysitting Guide for Young People and Parents
Guidelines To Working On Electrical Meter Panels Identified

As Containing Asbestos
Blasting Explosives GE06: Guide to obtaining a Learners

Licence
Blasting Explosives: Guide to Obtaining a Users Licence
(GE05)
Guidelines for Writing Work Method Statements in Plain

English
Health and Safety for Cleaning Contractors in NSW
Brothels: Health and Safety Guidelines
Health and Safety Guidelines for Call Centres in NSW
Bridge and Gantry Crane Drivers Guide
Health and Safety Guidelines for Hairdressers - August

2003Health and Safety in the Office
Building Facade Access Systems: Guidelines

Cantilevered Platform Materials Hoists - Upgrading of Safety
Gear
High visibility clothing

Hoist Operators Guide
Ceiling Dusts Containing Lead: Guidance Note
How to Manage Shiftwork
Chainsaw Safety: Guide
Importing Explosives and/or Security Sensitive Dangerous

Substances GE11: Guide to obtaining a Licence
CHAIR - Safety in Design tool

Chemical Emergency Guide
Community Services Safety Pack
Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Substances in
Agriculture: Fact Sheet
Dangerous Goods on Premises: Guide to Notification
(GDG01)
Dermatitis - The Facts Starting From Scratch
Due Diligence at Work
Dust in the Workplace: How to Prevent Silicosis
Establishing a Policy to Manage Alcohol and Other Drugs in
the Workplace
Evaluating Beds for the Health Industry: Checklist
Farm Safety: Starter Guide
Fibro and Asbestos: A renovator and homeowners guide
Fireworks (single use) GE03: Guide to obtaining a Licence
First Aid in the Workplace
First Aid in the Workplace - An example for small to medium
business
Inorganic Mercury Spillage Cleaning Procedures Laser

Printers and Indoor Air Quality: Fact Sheet
LP Gas Cylinders - Safe Handling, Storage and Disposal:
Fact Sheet
Making your Forklift work for you Managing Chemical
Hazards in the Workplace
Managing Chemical Hazards in the Workplace
Managing the use of Hazardous Substances within the
Motor Vehicle Repair Industry
Managing the use of Plant within the Motor Vehicle Repair
Industry
Managing the Risk of Slips, Trips and Falls within the Motor
Vehicle Repair Industry
Managing the Risk of Sprains and Strains within the Motor
Vehicle Repair Industry
Manually Moving Heavy Objects Across a Truck Tray with a
Crowbar or Similar Lever
Manufacturing Explosives and/or Security Sensitive
Dangerous Substances GE13: Guide to obtaining a Licence
Minimising Fatigue in the Health, Aged Care and Allied
Industries
23
WorkCover Safety Guides (Aug/08) continued

New First Aid Training Courses: Information for Employers
Staying Alive by Working Dead
OHSE Subby Pack
Steeplejacking
Operators of Explosive-Powered Tools Guide
Storing Security Sensitive Dangerous Substances GE08:

Guide to obtaining a Licence
Passive Smoking: Policy and Control Guide

Placards, Manifests and Notifications: When are they
required? Fact Sheet
Portable Ladders
Supplementary Guidance on Identification of Synthetic

Slings
Supply of Chemicals and Substances to Workplaces
Pregnancy and work - Guide 2002
Supplying Explosives and/or Security Sensitive Dangerous

Substances GE10: Guide to obtaining a Licence
Preventing Death by Drowning
Thermostatic Water Mixing Valve Failure
Preventing violence in the accommodation services of the

social and community services industry
Transporting Security Sensitive Dangerous Substances

GE09: Guide to obtaining a Licence
Protecting Young Workers from Workplace Hazards
Toxic gas generated by micro-organisms in confined spaces
Pryotechnicians Licence: Application Guide GE04Reading

Labels and Material Safety Data Sheets
Unsupervised Handling GE0I: Guide to obtaining an Licence
Risk Management at WorkSafe Handling and Security of

Explosives and Security Sensitive Dangerous Substances:
General Licensing Conditions
Utilities Working at Heights Resource

Using Security Sensitive Dangerous Substances GE02:
Guide to obtaining a Licence
Safe Operation Of Inflatable Type Amusement Devices
Violence in the Workplace
Safe Use of Solvents at Work
What Managers Can Do: OHS and the Multilingual

Workplace
Safety Helmets for Head Protection on Construction Sites

Safety Near Concrete Pumps
Safety Solutions Rebate Program
Secure and Safe Handling of Explosives and Security
Sensitive Dangerous Substances: Guide
Self-Erecting Tower Crane Operators Guide: Learners
Edition
Self-Erecting Tower Crane Operators Guide: Trainers
Edition
Serious About Safe Business
Shiftwork: How to Devise an Effective Roster
Site security and public access onto housing construction
sites
Skin Cancer and Outdoor Workers: A Guide for Employers
Skin Cancer and Outdoor Workers: A Guide for Workers
Small Business Safety Checklist - Checking out your
workplace.
Spray Painting
Spray Painting - What Apprentices need to know
24
Work in Cold Environments

Work in Hot Environments
Work Involving use of Carcinogenic Substances Guidelines
for Notification
Work involving the use of MOCA - (4,4-METHYLENE BIS
(2-CHLOROANILINE))
Workplace Safety Kit - A Step by Step Guide to Safety for
Business
What is adequate site supervision?
Work Near Underground Assets
Working with Asbestos: Guide
WorkCover Safety Alerts

All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs): Safety Alert
LPG Tanks on Agitators for Ready-Mixed Concrete Tanks
Base failure in self-erecting tower crane
Maintenance of Octopus Type Amusement Rides
Precautions to be taken when working on roofs with

openings and on brittle or fragile roofs
Methylated Spirits Causes Kitchen Fire Risk
Cantilevered Platform Materials (Barrow) Hoiststesting

publish options
Ceiling Collapse On Construction Site
Chrysotile Asbestos Ban
Concrete Placing Boom
Contaminated Air Warning To Divers
Control of Lead In the Radiator Industry Crush Hazard
Dangers Associated with Silos
Dangers of In-Running Rollers
Dangers of Penetrations on Construction Sites
Dangers Of Rear-Access Boxes On Trucks
Dangers of Using Sweepers Near Lift Wells
Divers or Persons Drowning
Electrical Hazards for Plumbers
Electrical Work near Live Electrical Equipment
Enclosed Areas
Erection and Dismantling of Formwork: Safety Alert
Explosion Danger In Cutting Empty Fuel Drums
Mobile Cranes
Mobile Wood Chipping Machines
Moving Plant on Construction Sites: Safety Alert
Operating earthmoving equipment in or near water
Operating earthmoving equipment adjacent to excavations
Operating loading ramps on trailers (low loaders)
Owners / Users of Aluminium Air Receivers
Portable Electrical Inverters for Construction Work
Safe Handling of Contaminated Groundwater at the
Workplace
Safe Operations Of Scissor Type Elevating Work Platforms
Safe Storage of Explosives
Safety Mesh Used on Roofs
Scissor-Type Elevating Work Platforms
Spray Booths: Safety Alert
Safety Alert Storage and Handling of Glass Sheets
Suspended Scaffolding
Telehandlers
Failure of first stage regulator on bulk LP Gas installation
Temporary support of masonry walls under construction:

Safety Alert
Failure Of Lifting Devices In Construction Work SA96/4
Tiger Tails on Powerlines
Fatality Highlights Drilling Rig Dangers
Tip-Truck Trailers
Ferris Wheel Type Amusement Devices
Tip Truck Trailers: Safety Alert
Filling of LP gas bottles safety alert
Tractor and Tractor Implement Operations
Fire and explosion risks at wineries
Tree Amenity/Arborist Operations
Fireworks
Truck Rolls Away: Safety Alert
Flammable Hydrocarbon Gases used in MVACS:

Safety Alert
Working Near Walls
Forklift Trucks
Harvest Machinery
High-Pressure Water Jetting
Hydraulically Operated Post Drivers: Safety Alert
Injuries from Concrete Pumping
LP Gas Filling Adaptors
25
EMC
Manual handling
Safe Work Practice

Manual handling
Document Control
Revision Status:
The document is controlled only as an electronic file. Printed documents are not issued as controlled documents.
This document was last saved on:
This document was printed on:
6/09/2009
6/09/2009
Change History
Date
Details of Changes
1/11/2007
First issue
Copyright
This document is for the exclusive use of EMC and may not be copied, replicated or used, in part or in whole, without the
written permission of the Director of Engineering Management Consulting Pty Ltd.
26
EMC
Manual handling
Documented Procedure: OPSWP001.DOC
1. Title:
Manual handling
2. File No:
OPSWP001.DOC
3. Purpose:
This procedure outlines the general guide to Manual Handling.
4. Scope:
This procedure applies to all activities were manual handling is involved.
5. References:

National Code of Practice for Manual Handling

[NOHSC:2005(1990)]
OP040 Preparation of Job Safety Analysis
OP050 Preparation of SWMS
6. Definitions:
7. Responsibility and Authority:
As detailed below.
8. Description of Activities:
8.1 Identification

Manual handling hazards are identified as part of the OP050 Risk Assessment and Control (SWMS).
When new plant, equipment or tasks are introduced or existing plant equipment or tasks are modified the hazards are to
be considered in accordance with OP050 Risk Assessment and Control (SWMS). These are to be done in consultation
with the people involved in the tasks. Specialists may need to be called in some instances.
In addition to the above identification can be undertaken by:

a. Analysis of workplace injury records;
b. Consultation with employees; and
c. Direct observation or inspection of the task or work area.
The procedures for these are found in the National Code of Practice for Manual Handling.
The National Code also includes the Safe Manual Handling Checklist for General Risk Identification, (OC015) which is to
be used when considering Manual Handling issues.
While the main focus of manual handling is back injury other risk are present and include:

Cuts and abrasions.
Slips and falls and dropped loads.
27
EMC
Manual handling
8.2 Controls

When a manual handling hazard is identified the following are to be considered:

J ob redesign to eliminate the manual handling.

Mechanical assistance.
Modify the task team lifting.
PPE.
8.3 Safe Lifting

If manual lifting is required:

Do not lift it if mechanical assistance is available, or where possible use team lifting.
Avoid unnecessary bending do not place objects on the floor or ground if they must be picked up later.
Avoid unnecessary twisting turn your feet, not your hips or shoulders, especially when bending.
Keep the load close to the body handle heavy objects close to the body. Avoid a long reach out to
pick up an object.
Lift gradually lift slowly, smoothly and without jerking.
Keep in good physical shape get proper exercise and maintain a good diet.
Can I really lift it?

Before picking up a load, ask yourself these questions:
Do I really need to lift this?
Can the object be moved by mechanical means?
Is this too heavy for me to lift and carry alone?
How high do I have to lift it?
How far do I have to carry it?
Will this lifting be a regular part of my job?
Am I trying to impress anyone by lifting this?
28
EMC
Manual handling
Lift it right
Follow these recommended steps for lifting:

Position your feet correctly as close as possible to the load.
One foot goes next to the load and one goes behind it.
Check your footing is secure.
Squat down keeping your head erect and your back straight.
Obtain a good grip firm grip of the load, hands diagonally opposite with the load in the palm of your
hands fingers alone are too weak.
Maintain a straight back keeping the upper part of your body erect and a straight as possible.
Do not stoop over or bend your back forward.
Keep your head erect.
Raise the load by straightening your legs, keeping your back straight.
Keep you arms in and the load close to your body.
If you must turn do not twist your body.
Point your foot in the direction you are turning.
PPE

Gloves and other protective clothing (aprons, long sleeves etc) help protect against cuts and abrasions.
Proper clothing allows loads to be held close to the body.
Proper foot wear helps reduce slips (and falls) while steel capped boots protect against dropped loads.
9. Records

The following records are kept in relation to this process:

Document No
Document Name
OC015
Safe Manual Handling Checklist
29
EMC
Manual handling
Office Location: Dubbo
EMC
Safe Work Method
Statement
Telephone: 0407 251 298
Description of Activity
Title
I approve the use of this Safe Work Method Statement:

Name
Position
Signature
Date
30/10/2008
I approve the use of this Safe Work Method Statement:

Name
Position
Signature
Date
Project:
30/10/2008
ShortTitle
The Following PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) Must Be Worn When Performing This Activity
Protective Gloves
Safety Glasses
High Visibility
Vest to be worn at
night
Steel Capped
Boots
Face Protection
Clothing:
High Visibility
Long Sleeved
Shirt
Long Trousers
Gas Monitor and

Lanyard
30
RPD / fall arrestor

/ winch (to be
used for entry /
exit rescue)
Safety Harness
(entry persons
and standby)
Hearing
Protection:
Ear plugs or
earmuffs
Sun Protection:
Broad Brimmed
Hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hard Hat
Dust Masks
First aid kit
Mobile phone or
2-way radio
EMC
Critical Steps in
this Activity:
Manual handling
Potential
Hazards:
Risk
Safety Controls:
Likelihood /
Consequences
/ Risk
Residual Risk
Likelihood /
Consequences /
Risk
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Training Required to Complete Activity:

1. List training required
eg Hiab, First Aid,
Traffic Control.
General OH & S Induction
Certificate (Green Card)
Work Activity Induction
Confined Spaces Entry
First Aid (Desirable)
Traffic Controllers Ticket
(RTA blue TC ticket).
Select and Modify Plans
(RTA red TC ticket).
Drivers licence
Manual Handling training
Hazardous substances
training.
2. Training details are

located on:
EMC Training register
located at:
List Codes of Practice, Legislation, Standards

which apply to this Activity:
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000.
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001.
RTA Traffic Control at Worksites manual (vers 3).
AS1742.3 Manual of Uniform traffic control devices,
part 3, Traffic control devices for works on roads.
Manual handling legislation 2001.
Work Cover Code of Practice: Noise Management &
Protection of Hearing at Work
Work Cover Moving Plant on Construction Sites
Code of Practice
Work Cover Skin Cancer & Outdoor Workers: A Guide
for Workers the choice is yours
Work Cover Work in Cold Environments Fact Sheet
Work Cover Work in Hot Environments Fact Sheet
31
EMC
Manual handling
List Plant/Equipment/
Personal Protective
Equipment required for
this Activity:
List Equipment Maintenance

Checks required for this Activity:
Various hand tools

Various Traffic control
devices.
PPE high visibility
clothing, safety boots,
long sleeve shirts, long
trousers, protective
gloves, hearing protection
(ear plugs or ear muffs),
eye/face protection, sun
hat, hard hat, dust mask
First Aid kit.
Plant operators and truck drivers

daily pre-start inspections.
Daily check of traffic control
short-term work.
Daily inspection of PPE.
Regular inspection of Lifting slings
Regular inspection of electrical
equipment.
Engineering Certificates /Permits/

Approvals required for this Activity
Type
Reference/
Document
Controlling traffic on
roadway.
RTA or council
approved Traffic
Control Plan.
Person(s) Responsible for Supervising/Inspecting Work:

Person(s) responsible for supervising the work, inspecting and approving work areas, work methods, protective
measures, plant equipment and power tools
NB List of qualifications/experience is held on local files
Name
Position
Signature
Name
Position
Signature
For list of names of staff instructed in this SWMS see ToolBox Meeting records.
32
This CD contains a .pdf version of the printed manual. The electronic version contains navigation links which
make the document much easier to access and use.
Navigation
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to go to the relevant topic
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ROADS & TRANSPORT

OH&S Requirements for

OH&S Requirements for Road Work

Road Works Safety Management

OHS Systems NSW Government Guidelines

OHS Systems AS NZS

Site Safety Rules

SWMS NSW Guidelines

Principal Contractor & PSMP

Principal Contractor & SWMS

Safe Work Practices

When to Prepare SWPs

Suggested List of SWPs for Road Works

WorkCover Safety Guides (Aug/08)

WorkCover Safety Alerts

Example SWP Manual handling (1)

Example SWP Manual handling (2)

Example SWP Manual handling (3)

Example SWP Manual handling (4)

Example SWMS Layout (1)

Example SWMS Layout (2)

Example SWMS Layout (3)

Click on the tinted red coloured boxes

Click on the IPWEA symbol to return

OH&S Requirements for Road Work

The IPWEA Roads and Transport Directorate Management

The framework of the report is an overview of OHS

The objectives of the project are:

Review applicable Legislation

The need for the project arose from a number of

This is through a series of flow charts addressing the

main requirements of the legislation etc.

The OHS Act 2000 provides:

The scope of this report is:

In any proceedings for an offence against a provision of

The impact of the OHS legislation on road works and

OH&S Requirements for Road Work

It should follow that those engaged in roadwork need to

Road Works Safety Management

Construction work means civil engineering, including

Road Work is High

It involves construction work near traffic or mobile plant

high risk construction work is being undertaken

ensure that OHS Induction

Only required where

provide safe work method

keep a register of hazardous

OH&S Requirements for Road Work

OHS Systems NSW Government Guidelines

Corporate OHS Management System

Project OHS Management Plan (PSMP)

Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)

OH&S Requirements for Road Work

OHS Systems AS NZS

OHS Management Systems

Structure and responsibility

Monitoring and measurement

Incident investigation, corrective and

OH&S Requirements for Road Work

A statement of responsibilities, listing the names, positions and responsibilities of all

OH&S Requirements for Road Work

A statement of responsibilities, listing the names, positions and responsibilities

Identification of the hazards and assessment of the risks