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Demolition SWMS

Demolition work involves the deliberate removal of load-bearing structures and exposes workers to collapse, asbestos, and hazardous material risks that can cause immediate death or long-latency disease. The WHS Regulation 2025 classifies demolition of any load-bearing structure as high risk construction work requiring a SWMS. A mandatory pre-demolition asbestos survey must be completed before any demolition begins. This template maps controls to the binding Demolition Work Code of Practice effective 1 July 2026.

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SWMS variants reference your state’s WHS legislation. Instant download after payment.

Legal Requirements

regulation

WHS Regulation 2025 Part 4.4 — High Risk Construction Work

hrcw category

Demolition of a load-bearing structure

code of practice

Demolition Work (binding 1 July 2026 under Section 26A)

section 26a binding

Yes — effective 1 July 2026. Non-compliance is admissible as evidence of breach.

Hazards

HazardConsequenceLikelihood
Uncontrolled structural collapse during load-bearing element removalMultiple fatalities, crush injuries.Possible
Asbestos-containing material disturbance (mandatory pre-demo survey)Mesothelioma, asbestosis (20-50 year latency).Likely
Hazardous material exposure — lead paint, PCBs, synthetic mineral fibreChemical poisoning, respiratory illness, cancer.Possible
Flying debris and uncontrolled material fallTraumatic injury, lacerations, eye injuries.Likely
Hidden services — live electrical, gas, pressurised waterElectrocution, explosion, flooding.Possible
Dust generation exceeding exposure standardsRespiratory disease, silicosis.Likely

Controls (Hierarchy of Controls)

Commission a pre-demolition survey identifying asbestos, hazardous materials, and structural elements
Obtain structural engineer sign-off on the demolition methodology and sequence
Establish exclusion zones around the demolition area with physical barriers and signage
Remove all asbestos-containing materials by licensed removalists before structural demolition begins
Disconnect and cap all services — electrical, gas, water, telecommunications — with written confirmation
Implement dust suppression using water sprays, misting systems, and enclosure where practicable
Use mechanical demolition plant with ROPS/FOPS cabs to minimise worker proximity to collapse zones

Recent Prosecutions

Rapid Demolition Pty Ltd$4,500

Failed to implement adequate exclusion zones and dust suppression during demolition of commercial building. Workers and public exposed to uncontrolled debris.

2025 — SafeWork NSW v Rapid Demolition Pty Ltd [2025]

What Your SWMS Must Include

✓Pre-demolition asbestos survey report and hazardous materials register
✓Structural engineer-approved demolition methodology and sequence
✓Exclusion zone dimensions and physical barrier specifications
✓Service disconnection confirmation from all utility providers
✓Emergency procedures for unplanned structural collapse

Need a compliant Demolition SWMS?

Our WHS consultants develop demolition SWMS with structural engineer coordination and asbestos management integration that satisfy regulator expectations.

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