Mechanical Demolition SWMS
Mechanical demolition of buildings using excavator with hydraulic shears, hammers, processors. Sequenced top-down or hi-reach demolition, dust suppression, structural collapse zones, debris removal.
SWMS variants reference your state’s WHS legislation. Instant download after payment.
Mechanical demolition involves excavators fitted with hydraulic shears, hammers or processors progressively dismantling structures top-down or via hi-reach. Work creates structural collapse, falling debris and dust hazards within exclusion zones. WHS Regulation 2025 Schedule 1 classifies this as High Risk Construction Work requiring a documented SWMS before work commences.
Hazards identified
3 hazards covered, sorted by priority.
Crush fatality, plant operator entrapment
Fatal impact, utility strike, fire
Silicosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer
Control measures
Hierarchy-of-controls order: elimination → substitution → isolation → engineering → administrative → PPE.
- 1Engineer-designed demolition sequence with exclusion zones enforced by spotters and physical barriers around collapse radius.
- 2Continuous water suppression at impact point; pre-demolition hazardous materials survey clears asbestos before mechanical works.
- 3Licensed high-risk plant operators only; reversing alarms, cameras, and dedicated traffic management separating plant from workers.
Applicable Codes of Practice
Primary standard for demolition sequencing and exclusion zones
Safe Work Australia model code for demolition planning
High-Risk Construction Work triggered
Demolition progressively removes load-bearing elements creating risk of premature structural collapse.
Excavators with shears, hammers and processors operate in close proximity to workers and structures.
SWMS mandatory before work starts; PCBU fines to $36,000 for non-compliance.
What you receive
- ✓Editable DOCX SWMS customisable to your demolition project
- ✓State-specific WHS legislation schedule (all jurisdictions)
- ✓Hazard register aligned to AS 2601 demolition sequencing
- ✓Worker sign-on register for SWMS consultation evidence
Related legislation
- WHS Regulation 2025 Part 6.3 — Demolition Work
- WHS Regulation 2025 Chapter 8 — Asbestos
- WHS Regulation 2025 Schedule 3 — High Risk Work Licences