Work method statements
Work method statements can assist relevant people to consider how certain activities will be carried out safely.
A relevant person doing construction work needs to prepare a work method statement for high-risk activities including:
- where a person is –
- to enter a trench more than 1.5 metres deep
- using explosives
- using a confined space
- using a hazardous substance
- if a person could fall–
- at least 3 metres for housing construction work, or
- at least 2 metres for other construction work
- working on a roof with a pitch greater than 26°
- where the principal contractor concludes an activity could result in death or bodily harm
- demolition work or asbestos removal work (prescribed activities).
A work method statement is also required for high-risk activities which include:
- tilt-up and precast construction work
- structural alterations that require temporary support to prevent collapse
- moving powered mobile plant at the workplace
- working on a telecommunications tower
- working in, over or adjacent to water where there is a risk of drowning
- working on, or adjacent to, a road or railway
- working on or near a pressurised gas distribution mains and consumer piping
- working on or near a chemical, fuel or refrigerant line
- work near an exposed energised electrical installation
- work in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere
- work in an area where there are artificial extremes of temperature.
The work method statement must take into account the principal contractor’s construction safety plan and also state:
- the high-risk construction activity
- the person’s ABN
- the control measures to be used
- the way the activity will be performed
- how the control measures will be monitored and reviewed
- any relevant prescribed occupations.
For demolition work and asbestos removal work (prescribed activities) the work method statement must also state:
- the relevant certificate number
- the arrangements for appropriate training and supervision
- take account of AS 2601 Demolition work (non-Queensland Government link) for demolition work.
Work method statements must be easy to understand, signed and dated.
The work method statement must be amended if there is a change in the activity and a copy must be given to the principal contractor. All people affected by changes must be advised of amendments to the work method statement.
The work method statement must be readily available for inspection. It must also be reviewed each year and amended if necessary.
