Ensure safe and efficient plumbing, drainage, and roof repair work with this Plumbing and Drainage Work, Roof Repairs SWMS. This document outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with plumbing and drainage tasks, as well as working at heights. It provides essential risk controls, hazard management strategies, and best practices to support compliance with Australian workplace safety standards while maintaining a secure work environment.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Awareness & Hazard Identification
Unaware of Hazards – Workers must be provided with relevant information and training before starting work. A hazard reporting process must be followed to address new risks.
Pre-Start Site Inspection – Workers must inspect the site and identify hazards such as pedestrian-restricted areas and site-specific risks before commencing work.
Site Induction & Safety Communication – All personnel must complete a site induction and be briefed on the SWMS before starting work.
2️⃣ Job Planning & Preparation
Inadequate Training & Equipment – Workers must be adequately trained, and supervision must be provided. Proper equipment must be used to complete the job safely.
Vehicle Movements & Site Entry – All personnel must report to the site office for induction and follow designated parking and vehicle movement procedures. Site speed limits must be adhered to.
Safe Equipment Unloading – Vehicles must be unloaded in designated areas clear of traffic. Proper manual handling techniques must be used, and workers must wear PPE such as high-visibility vests.
3️⃣ Plumbing & Drainage Work
Trips, Slips & Falls – Work areas must be kept clear of debris. Trenches must be filled or barricaded to prevent falls.
Manual Handling Risks – Workers must be trained in the use of shovels, wheelbarrows, and other tools. Heavy loads must be team-lifted or moved with mechanical aids.
Underground Services & Hazardous Substances – Dial Before You Dig must be consulted before excavation. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) must be available for any hazardous substances used.
4️⃣ Roof Repairs & Working at Heights
Falling from Heights – A fall protection system must be implemented before work begins. Any work over 2m requires height safety training. Roof work with a pitch greater than 35 degrees requires a harness or guardrail.
EWP/Ladder Safety – Ladders must be industrial-rated (minimum 120kg load rating) and inspected before use. Ladders must be placed on stable ground and secured at the top. Workers must maintain three points of contact when using ladders.
Weather Conditions – Work on roofs must not be carried out in wet or windy conditions. Sun protection, hydration, and scheduling during cooler hours are required for hot weather conditions.
5️⃣ Safe Use of Power Tools & Equipment
Equipment Pre-Use Checks – All tools must be inspected before use. Electrical tools must have a current test and tag.
Noise Exposure & PPE – Workers must wear hearing protection when using loud tools and rotate tasks to limit noise exposure.
Safe Handling & Storage – Tools must be stored securely when not in use to prevent unauthorised access or tripping hazards.
6️⃣ Working Around Excavations & Trenches
Open Trench Hazards – Trenches must be barricaded or backfilled to prevent falls. Workers must avoid unstable ground and rough terrain.
Underground Service Risks – Underground utilities must be clearly marked, and proper procedures must be followed to prevent damage.
Excavation Equipment & Supervision – Only licensed personnel may operate excavation equipment. Spotters must be used when working near plant and machinery.
7️⃣ Handling & Installing Drainage Systems
Manual Handling Risks – Workers must use correct lifting techniques, team lifting for heavy materials, or mechanical aids.
Falling Debris – Proper PPE, such as hard hats and safety boots, must be worn when working near overhead loads.
Use of Hazardous Substances – Proper ventilation and PPE must be used when working with glues, solvents, or other hazardous chemicals.
8️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Measures – Workers must be aware of the location and use of first aid kits and fire-fighting equipment. Emergency contact details must be readily available.
Incident Reporting & Work Cessation – Any injuries, near misses, and unexpected hazards must be reported immediately. Work must stop until risks are reassessed and controlled.
Emergency Response Plan – An emergency response plan must be in place for working at heights, excavation incidents, and hazardous substance exposure.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Supports Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety standards for plumbing, drainage, and roof repair work.
Structured Risk Management – Identifies hazards, implements control measures, and provides step-by-step safety guidelines.
Emergency Readiness – Establishes clear procedures for incident response, working at heights, and excavation safety.
Fully Customisable – Can be tailored to specific plumbing, drainage, and roof repair environments and industry requirements.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Plumbing and Drainage Work, Roof Repairs SWMS is essential for:
Licensed Plumbers & Drainage Contractors
Roof Repair & Maintenance Professionals
Construction & Civil Engineering Teams
Facility & Property Maintenance Workers
 
Additional Resources:
Included with your purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List to support your WHS documentation.
 
Ensure safe and compliant plumbing and roof repair operations. Download the Plumbing and Drainage Work, Roof Repairs SWMS today and implement best-practice risk management for your team.