What Is High Risk Construction Work? Australian WHS Guide
High risk construction work means specific construction activities identified in WHS laws. If the work falls into one of those categories, a SWMS must be prepared before the work starts.
Quick answer
High risk construction work means specific construction activities identified in WHS laws. If the work falls into one of those categories, a SWMS must be prepared before the work starts.
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What is High Risk Construction Work? Australian WHS Explained
Learn which construction activities are classed as high risk, why that classification matters, and what a practical SWMS should cover before work starts.
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Watch on YouTubeHigh risk is a legal category, not a general description
Construction work can be difficult or hazardous without meeting the legal definition of high risk construction work. The model WHS Regulations identify specific categories. When proposed work falls into one of those categories, the PCBU must manage the additional SWMS duties that apply.
Common high risk construction work categories
The categories cover work where the consequences of a control failure can be severe. Check the complete list and the rules that apply in your state or territory before deciding whether a task is covered.
- Work involving a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres
- Work in or near a confined space, trench, shaft or tunnel
- Demolition, structural alteration, asbestos or explosive work
- Work near energised electrical installations or pressurised services
- Work near powered mobile plant, traffic corridors or moving plant
- Work involving precast concrete, artificial temperature extremes, water or diving
High risk construction work and licensed work are separate checks
Do not treat “high risk construction work” and “high risk work licence” as interchangeable terms. A project may require a SWMS, a licensed person, or both. Confirm the work category, licensing requirements, and local regulator guidance separately.
What should happen before work starts
Define the work and site conditions, identify the high risk activities and hazards, choose controls using the hierarchy of control, consult the people doing the work, and make the current SWMS available before the activity begins.
- Name the work activity and work area
- Describe hazards and control measures clearly
- Assign responsibilities for putting controls in place
- Brief workers and record sign-off
- Keep the current SWMS accessible on site
Review the SWMS when the work changes
Review the SWMS if site conditions, equipment, sequencing, people, or hazards change, or if a control is not working as intended. The document should reflect the way the work is actually being carried out.
Frequently asked questions
Does every risky construction task need a SWMS?
No. A SWMS is specifically required for high risk construction work. Check the defined categories and your state or territory requirements rather than relying on a general judgement that the task is risky.
Who is responsible for preparing the SWMS?
The PCBU carrying out the high risk construction work has the duty to prepare and comply with the SWMS. A copy must also be provided to the principal contractor where that duty applies.
Is the fall-height threshold the same everywhere?
The model WHS guidance refers to a risk of falling more than 2 metres, but WHS laws are enforced by states and territories. Confirm the requirements with the regulator for the jurisdiction where the work will occur.
Can an existing SWMS be reused?
An existing SWMS can be a starting point, but it must be reviewed for the actual project, work area, conditions, equipment, hazards, controls, and people involved.
Next step
Use this guide to check your current evidence, then move the work into a controlled system with documents, forms, registers, and review actions.
Create a free SWMS