When is a SWMS legally required for cleaning operations on construction sites?
A SWMS is legally required under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 when cleaning work involves high-risk construction activities. This includes cleaning at heights exceeding 2 metres, work in confined spaces, use of powered mobile plant, work involving asbestos or hazardous substances, and work near energised electrical installations. Additionally, principal contractors on construction projects valued over $250,000 must ensure all work is covered by SWMS documentation. Even when not legally mandated, best practice recommends SWMS documentation for all cleaning operations involving specialised equipment, chemicals, or biological hazards to demonstrate due diligence and systematic risk management. The document must be prepared before work commences and be accessible to all workers involved in the cleaning activities.
What PPE is required for biohazard cleaning operations such as crime scene or methamphetamine laboratory cleanup?
Biohazard cleaning requires comprehensive PPE appropriate to the contaminant level. For crime scene cleaning involving blood-borne pathogens, minimum PPE includes impermeable coveralls or aprons, nitrile or latex gloves (double-gloving recommended), face shields or safety glasses, and P2 respirators. For methamphetamine laboratory remediation classified as hazardous substance work, workers must use disposable coveralls with hood, chemical-resistant gloves, full-face respirators with combined organic vapour and particulate filters (or supplied air in high contamination areas), and disposable boot covers. All biohazard PPE must be properly donned following defined procedures, remain intact throughout the work, and be safely removed and disposed of as contaminated waste. Workers require specific training in PPE selection, use, and decontamination procedures before undertaking biohazard cleaning tasks.
How do cleaning contractors demonstrate competency for specialised cleaning tasks like BMU operation or confined space cleaning?
Demonstrating competency requires documented evidence of appropriate training, licencing, and experience. BMU operators must hold a High Risk Work Licence for the specific platform type (WP licence class) issued by the state or territory regulator. Confined space cleaning requires completion of recognised training in confined space entry, atmospheric testing, and emergency rescue procedures. Workers performing asbestos-related cleaning must hold appropriate asbestos removal licences (Class A or Class B depending on the scope). Methamphetamine remediation workers require specialised training in hazardous substance management and decontamination procedures. All workers must complete general construction induction training (White Card) and site-specific inductions. Employers must maintain training records, competency assessments, licence copies, and medical fitness certificates where required. Regular refresher training and competency verification ensure workers maintain current knowledge of safe work procedures and regulatory requirements.
What atmospheric testing is required before cleaning activities in confined spaces like tanks or service voids?
Confined space atmospheric testing must be conducted by a competent person using properly calibrated multi-gas detection equipment before entry and continuously during occupation. Initial testing must measure oxygen concentration (acceptable range 19.5% to 23.5%), flammable gas levels (must be below 5% of lower explosive limit), and toxic contaminants relevant to the cleaning task including carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide, and chemical vapours from cleaning agents. Testing must occur at multiple levels within the space as gas stratification can create hazardous pockets. Results must be documented before each entry, and continuous monitoring maintained throughout the cleaning operation. If cleaning chemicals will be used within the confined space, additional testing must verify adequate ventilation prevents hazardous atmosphere development. Forced ventilation should run continuously, and testing repeated if work is interrupted or atmospheric conditions change. The entry permit must specify acceptable atmospheric parameters and actions required if monitoring detects conditions outside safe limits.
What chemical safety information must be available on site during construction cleaning operations?
All hazardous cleaning chemicals used on site must have current Safety Data Sheets (SDS) available in English and accessible to all workers. The SWMS must reference specific chemicals by product name and describe hazards, required controls, and emergency procedures. A chemical register must list all products, their storage locations, and intended applications. Dilution ratios and mixing procedures must be clearly documented to prevent dangerous chemical reactions or excessive concentrations. Emergency contact information including Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) and product suppliers must be readily accessible. Spill response equipment and procedures must be established before chemical use commences. Workers must receive training in chemical safety including SDS interpretation, safe handling procedures, appropriate PPE selection, and first aid response. For specialised cleaning involving restricted chemicals or fumigants, additional licensing and notification requirements apply. The principal contractor must verify all cleaning chemicals are appropriate for the construction environment and compatible with installed building materials.
