Fencing

The requirement for SWMS depends on whether the work meets the definition of high-risk construction work under WHS regulations, not simply on whether the project is residential or commercial. Fencing work is considered high-risk construction work in specific circumstances including work on a road or adjacent to a road where there is traffic, work near energised electrical services including overhead power lines, and structural fencing work. Most boundary fencing on residential properties involves at least one of these factors—commonly proximity to power lines or road frontage work. Additionally, pool fencing is specifically identified as requiring SWMS due to the safety-critical nature of the installation. While a simple internal yard fence with no road, traffic, or electrical proximity may not require SWMS, best practice is to prepare appropriate SWMS for all fencing work to demonstrate due diligence. This protects your business if an incident occurs and WorkSafe investigates whether appropriate safety planning was undertaken. Many insurance policies also require SWMS documentation as a condition of coverage.

Fencing work does not require a specific trade qualification like some construction trades, however workers must demonstrate competency in the tasks they perform. Workers should complete Construction Induction Training (White Card) before working on construction sites. For specific high-risk activities, additional licences are required—for example, workers operating excavators for post-hole boring need appropriate earthmoving plant licences, and those working near overhead power lines may need specific training in electrical safety awareness. Workers installing electric fencing must understand energiser systems, earthing requirements, and electrical safety. Employers must provide site-specific training covering the SWMS requirements, hazard identification, emergency procedures, and safe operation of equipment including post-hole augers and power tools. Workers should receive manual handling training specific to fencing materials. Apprentices and labourers can work under direct supervision of experienced workers, however supervision must be active and continuous during high-risk activities. Maintain records of all worker training, inductions, and competency assessments.

Fencing installation along roads triggers requirements for traffic management under WHS legislation and local road authority regulations. You must prepare a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) complying with AS 1742.3 (Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices) before commencing roadside work. The complexity of your TMP depends on road classification, traffic volume, and work duration. High-speed or high-volume roads require qualified traffic controllers holding current traffic control qualifications. You must obtain permits or approvals from relevant road authorities (local council for local roads, state authorities for main roads). Your SWMS must integrate with the TMP, addressing how workers will be protected from traffic, where vehicles and materials will be positioned, and communication protocols. Traffic control measures typically include advance warning signs, speed reductions, temporary barriers, and delineation of work zones. All workers in road corridors must wear high-visibility clothing meeting AS/NZS 4602.1. Position vehicles and material storage to minimise exposure time in traffic lanes. Schedule work during lower traffic periods where possible. Never commence roadside fencing work without appropriate traffic management in place—penalties for non-compliance are substantial and worker safety is critically dependent on effective traffic control.

Striking underground services during post-hole excavation creates extreme hazards and you have legal obligations to prevent service strikes. Before commencing any excavation work including fence post holes, you must contact the national Dial Before You Dig service (1100) at least two business days before starting work. This free service provides plans showing the location of underground utilities based on your work location. However, plans may be inaccurate or incomplete, particularly for older services or private connections. Your SWMS must require physical service location using cable detection equipment before excavating. When services are detected, hand-dig using non-conductive tools to positively expose and verify service type and depth before using mechanical augers. Maintain minimum clearance distances from exposed services—typically 300mm for most services but greater clearances apply for high-voltage electrical cables. Mark located services clearly to prevent accidental disturbance. If you strike a service, immediately stop work and notify the service authority. For electrical service strikes, assume cables are energised and establish an exclusion zone until qualified electrical workers confirm safety. Document all service location activities in your SWMS records. Failure to conduct adequate service location can result in WorkSafe prosecution, particularly if strikes cause injuries.

Pool fencing is subject to stringent regulatory requirements under Australian Standard AS 1926.1 (Swimming Pool Safety) which is adopted into state and territory legislation. This standard specifies mandatory requirements for barrier height (minimum 1200mm), non-climbable zones preventing children from climbing over, maximum gaps preventing children from passing through or under (typically 100mm), self-closing and self-latching gates with latches mounted at specific heights, and restrictions on nearby climbable objects. Your SWMS for pool fencing installation must address these compliance requirements alongside standard fencing hazards. Non-compliance can result in council orders to rectify work, denial of final inspection approval, professional liability if drowning incidents occur, and prosecution. Many councils require pool fencing installation to be performed by licensed contractors. You must verify local council requirements before commencing, as some councils have additional requirements beyond AS 1926.1. Pool fencing must be inspected and certified before pools can be filled or used. Maintain detailed records of installation including photographs showing compliance with non-climbable zones, gap measurements, and gate operation. Consider obtaining professional indemnity insurance specifically covering pool fencing work given the safety-critical nature and potential liability. Include in your SWMS specific inspection checklists aligned with AS 1926.1 requirements to verify compliance before handover.