Erection and subsequent dismantling of a tube-and-coupler scaffold system to a maximum height of 15 metres along the northern facade of a three-storey commercial building. The scaffold will provide access for facade remediation works. Erection includes base preparation, standard and ledger assembly, bracing, platform installation, and handrail completion. Dismantling follows reverse sequence.
This SWMS does not cover the facade remediation works themselves, nor any modifications to the scaffold after initial erection (covered under a separate variation SWMS).
| Hazard | Inherent Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falls during erection/dismantling Scaffolders working at height without completed edge protection during assembly of each new lift |
5 x 5 = 25 Extreme |
Engineering Advance guardrail system installed from the completed lift below before workers advance to the next lift Engineering Scaffold ties installed at every lift as specified in the scaffold design Administrative Only ticketed scaffolders (with current competency) to erect and dismantle Administrative Written scaffold erection plan by competent person; progressive inspections at each completed lift PPE Full body harness with retractable lanyard connected to scaffold structure during leading-edge work |
2 x 5 = 10 High |
| Scaffold collapse Structural failure due to inadequate bracing, overloading, foundation subsidence, or incorrect assembly |
3 x 5 = 15 High |
Engineering Scaffold erected to approved design by a competent engineer; ties, bracing, and base plates as per design drawings Engineering Sole plates on compacted ground; base jacks plumb and level; load ratings clearly displayed Administrative Scaffold inspected before first use, weekly, and after adverse weather by a competent person; green tag system Administrative Maximum platform loading clearly marked; no unauthorised modifications |
1 x 5 = 5 Medium |
| Falling objects Scaffold components, tools, or materials dropped during erection/dismantling, striking workers below |
4 x 4 = 16 High |
Isolation Exclusion zone with barricades and signage beneath active erection/dismantling area Engineering Gin wheel and rope used to raise/lower all components — no throwing Engineering Toe boards on all completed platforms; brick guards on public-facing sides PPE Hard hats mandatory for all personnel within the scaffold zone |
2 x 4 = 8 Medium |
| Manual handling Repetitive lifting and carrying of heavy scaffold tubes (up to 25 kg each), couplers, and platform boards |
4 x 3 = 12 High |
Substitution Use lightweight aluminium scaffold components where design permits (reduced weight by 40%) Engineering Gin wheel and material hoist for vertical transport of components above 4m Administrative Team lift for tubes over 6m length; rotate tasks to prevent fatigue; scheduled rest breaks every 90 minutes |
2 x 3 = 6 Medium |
| Proximity to overhead power lines Scaffold components or equipment contacting or approaching overhead 11kV power lines running along the street frontage |
3 x 5 = 15 High |
Elimination Request network operator to de-energise or insulate overhead lines before scaffold erection within 4m exclusion zone Isolation If lines cannot be de-energised, maintain minimum 4m exclusion zone from 11kV lines; tiger-tail markers on lines Administrative Dedicated spotter to monitor clearances during all operations near power lines; pre-start briefing on electrical hazards Administrative No scaffold components to be carried vertically in proximity to power lines |
1 x 5 = 5 Medium |
If a worker falls and is suspended in a harness, initiate rescue within 5 minutes to prevent suspension trauma. Use a ladder or adjacent scaffold to reach the casualty. If ground-level fall, do not move the person unless immediate danger exists. Call 111 and administer first aid.
If the scaffold shows signs of movement, settlement, or structural distress, evacuate all personnel immediately. Barricade the area, prohibit access, and contact the scaffold engineer for assessment before any re-entry.
All workers must read and understand this SWMS before commencing work. By signing below, each worker confirms they have been briefed on the hazards, controls, and emergency procedures, and agree to follow them.
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