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Bricklaying SWMS Template
Safe Work Method Statement for brick and block laying on residential and commercial construction
HRCW: Work at height (above 2m) — upper courses, scaffold work
✓ WHS Reg compliant✓ Pre-filled hazards & controls✓ Preview free, export PDF
What This SWMS Covers
This SWMS covers bricklaying and block laying work including residential and commercial masonry construction, scaffold-based bricklaying at height, brick cutting and grinding, and mortar mixing. Bricklaying becomes HRCW when performed from scaffolding above 2 metres.
Who Needs This SWMS
Bricklayers, bricklaying apprentices, blocklayers, principal contractors engaging bricklaying subcontractors
Key Hazards & Control Measures
| Hazard | Risk Level | Control Measures | Hierarchy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falls from height (scaffold, elevated work) | Fatal | Scaffold erected by competent person, guardrails, toe boards, safe access (stairs/ladder), fall arrest for leading-edge work | Engineering / PPE |
| Scaffold collapse / overloading | Fatal | Load ratings displayed, brick packs distributed evenly, scaffold inspection register, competent person erection | Engineering / Administrative |
| Manual handling (bricks, blocks, mortar) | Serious | Mechanical aids (forklift to scaffold, hoist), brick packs at waist height, limit carry distances, team lifts for heavy blocks | Engineering / Administrative |
| Silica dust (cutting bricks/blocks) | Critical | Wet cutting with brick saw, dust extraction, P2 RPE, never dry-cut without controls | Engineering / PPE |
| Cement burns (mortar contact) | Moderate | Waterproof gloves, long sleeves, wash hands regularly, pH-neutral wash available | PPE / Administrative |
| Falling objects | Serious | Toe boards on scaffold, exclusion zones below, materials secured on platforms, hard hats in drop zones | Engineering / Administrative |
| Noise (brick saw) | Moderate | Hearing protection during cutting, noise assessment for sustained use | PPE |
| UV / heat stress | Moderate | Shade cloth on scaffold, hydration, sun-protective clothing, early starts in summer | Administrative / PPE |
PPE Requirements
●Hard hat (AS/NZS 1801)
●Safety boots (AS/NZS 2210)
●Safety glasses (AS/NZS 1337)
●Waterproof gloves for mortar work
●P2 respirator for cutting tasks
●Hearing protection for brick saw use
●High-visibility vest
Frequently Asked Questions
Build Your Bricklaying SWMS Now
Pre-filled hazards and controls for bricklaying work. Preview free, export when ready.