Plumbing SWMS Template
Safe Work Method Statement for plumbing installation, maintenance, drainage, and gas fitting
What This SWMS Covers
This SWMS covers plumbing work including water supply installation, sanitary plumbing and drainage, stormwater drainage, gas fitting, roof plumbing (gutters, downpipes, flashings), hot water system installation, and maintenance/repair of existing plumbing systems. Plumbing work frequently involves HRCW through trenching for underground drainage (excavation >1.5m), work at heights for roof plumbing, and work near pressurised gas lines.
Who Needs This SWMS
Licensed plumbers, drainers, gas fitters, roof plumbers, plumbing apprentices under supervision, principal contractors engaging plumbing subcontractors
Key Hazards & Control Measures
| Hazard | Risk Level | Control Measures | Hierarchy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trench collapse (drainage excavation) | Fatal | Trench shoring/shielding for depths >1.5m, benching/battering for wider excavations, competent person inspection, no workers in unshored trench | Engineering |
| Falls from height (roof plumbing) | Fatal / Critical | Edge protection on roof perimeter, harness + static line for work on pitched roofs, scaffolding for gutter replacement | Engineering / PPE |
| Gas exposure / explosion (gas fitting) | Fatal | Pressure testing before commissioning, leak detection fluid and gas detector, ventilation of work area, no ignition sources, licensed gas fitter only | Administrative / Engineering |
| Contact with sewage / biological hazards | Serious | Hep A/B vaccination for workers handling sewage, PPE (gloves, face shield, overalls), hygiene facilities, no eating/drinking in work area | PPE / Administrative |
| Hot work burns (soldering, brazing) | Moderate | Fire-resistant mat behind joints, fire extinguisher within 3m, hot work permit on construction sites, cool-down period before leaving | Administrative / PPE |
| Working in confined spaces (pits, chambers) | Critical | Confined space entry permit, atmospheric monitoring (O₂, LEL, H₂S), rescue plan and standby person, ventilation | Administrative / Engineering |
| Underground service strikes | Fatal | DBYD enquiry, potholing to expose services, hand-dig within tolerance zone, cable/pipe locator | Administrative / Engineering |
| Manual handling (pipe, fittings, water heaters) | Moderate | Mechanical aids for heavy items, team lifts for water heaters, correct pipe carrying technique | Engineering / Administrative |
| Noise exposure (core drilling, jackhammering) | Moderate | Hearing protection (Class 5), noise assessment for sustained use, quieter methods where feasible | PPE / Substitution |
| Asbestos exposure (older buildings) | Critical | Identify asbestos-containing materials before work, licensed asbestos removalist for >10m², asbestos management plan, P3/P2 RPE | Administrative / PPE |
PPE Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
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Pre-filled hazards and controls for plumbing work. Preview free, export when ready.