This Information Sheet provides advice for persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) on the function, content and application of safe work method statements (SWMS). The Work Health and Safety (General) Regulations 2022 and Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations 2022 (WHS Regulations), require a SWMS to be prepared for proposed high risk construction work before commencing any activity that:

• involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres
• is carried out on a telecommunication
• involves demolition of an element of a structure that is load-bearing
• involves demolition of an element of a structure that is related to the physical integrity of the structure
• involves, or is likely to involve, the disturbance of asbestos
• involves structural alterations or repairs that require temporary support to prevent collapse
• is carried out in or near a confined space
• is carried out in or near a shaft or trench with excavated depth greater than 1.5 metres, or a tunnel
• involves the use of explosives
• is carried out on or near pressurised gas distribution mains or piping
• is carried out on or near chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines
• is carried out on or near energised electrical installations or services
• is carried out in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere
• involves tilt up or precast concrete
• is carried out on, in or adjacent to a road, railway, shipping lane or other traffic corridor that is in use by traffic other than pedestrians
• is carried out in an area in which there is any movement of powered mobile plant
• is carried out in an area in which there are artificial extremes of temperature
• is carried out in or near water or other liquid that involves a risk of drowning, or
• involves diving work.