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Demolition SWMS Template

Safe Work Method Statement for structural demolition of buildings and structures

HRCW: Demolition of a structure — load-bearing or designed to be occupiedHRCW: Work involving asbestos if presentHRCW: Work at height
✓ WHS Reg compliant✓ Pre-filled hazards & controls✓ Preview free, export PDF

What This SWMS Covers

This SWMS covers structural demolition of buildings and structures including mechanical demolition, hand demolition, and the associated hazard management for asbestos, lead paint, and other hazardous materials that must be addressed before structural demolition begins.

Who Needs This SWMS

Licensed demolition contractors, demolition workers, principal contractors managing demolition projects, structural engineers involved in demolition planning

Key Hazards & Control Measures

HazardRisk LevelControl MeasuresHierarchy
Structural collapse (premature/uncontrolled)FatalDemolition work plan prepared by competent person, engineering assessment of structural integrity, sequential demolition methodology, exclusion zonesEngineering / Administrative
Asbestos exposureFatal (long-term)Asbestos survey and register before demolition commences (mandatory), licensed removal of all asbestos before structural demolition beginsAdministrative
Falls from heightFatalEdge protection, scaffolding for elevated demolition, fall arrest as last resort, no walking on structures being demolishedEngineering / PPE
Falling debris / objectsFatalExclusion zones (minimum 1.5× building height), catch platforms, debris netting, signage, spottersEngineering / Administrative
Hazardous materials (lead paint, PCBs, chemical residues)CriticalHazardous materials survey before demolition, specialist removal of identified hazards, health monitoring for exposed workersAdministrative
Plant interaction (excavators, cranes)FatalTraffic management plan, spotters, exclusion zones around operating plant, communication protocolsAdministrative
Underground servicesFatalService location and disconnection before demolition, DBYD enquiry, potholing to confirmAdministrative / Engineering
Noise and vibration (to neighbours)ModerateNoise management plan, vibration monitoring at boundaries, communication with neighbours, time restrictions per council DA conditionsAdministrative

PPE Requirements

●Hard hat (AS/NZS 1801)
●Safety boots (AS/NZS 2210)
●High-visibility vest (AS/NZS 4602)
●Safety glasses (AS/NZS 1337)
●P2 respirator (P3 if asbestos present)
●Hearing protection (AS/NZS 1270)
●Fall arrest harness where required

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Is a SWMS always required for demolition?
Yes. Demolition of a load-bearing structure or a structure designed to be occupied is classified as HRCW under WHS Regulations. A SWMS must be prepared before demolition work commences.
Q:Must asbestos be removed before demolition?
Yes. An asbestos survey must be conducted and all identified asbestos-containing materials must be removed by a licensed removalist before structural demolition begins. This is a legal requirement.
Q:Who prepares the demolition work plan?
The demolition work plan must be prepared by a competent person, which for complex structures means a structural engineer. The plan covers the sequence of demolition, structural stability during the process, and hazard controls.

Build Your Demolition SWMS Now

Pre-filled hazards and controls for demolition work. Preview free, export when ready.