Plumbing SWMS

While not all plumbing work legally requires a SWMS, Safe Work Method Statements are mandatory for high-risk construction work as defined in the WHS Regulations. For plumbing, this includes work in confined spaces (pits, tanks, manholes), excavation and trenching deeper than 1.5 metres, work on gas systems, and any plumbing work involving risk of falls from height. Beyond legal requirements, implementing SWMS for all plumbing activities represents best practice as it provides consistent safety management, demonstrates due diligence, and protects workers even in lower-risk situations. Many principal contractors require SWMS for all trade work on their sites regardless of specific legal requirements.

Gas fitting work requires multiple layers of safety control due to explosion and fire risks. First, ensure all gas fitters hold current gas fitting licences for the specific work class (Type A or Type B). Implement a permit to work system for all gas installations requiring isolation, testing, and verification. Follow Australian Standards AS/NZS 5601 for gas installations, including proper pipe sizing, pressure testing protocols, and purging procedures. Ensure adequate ventilation during all gas work, especially in confined or enclosed spaces. Use appropriate gas detection equipment and establish clear emergency procedures for gas leaks. Never work on live gas services without specific isolation and verification. For medical gas work, additional controls apply due to the critical nature of hospital gas systems, requiring specialised training, contamination prevention protocols, and staged commissioning procedures.

Confined space work in plumbing, such as working in pits, tanks, manholes, and pump stations, requires strict compliance with confined space regulations. Before any entry, conduct a formal risk assessment and issue a confined space entry permit. Test the atmosphere for oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic contaminants, and continue monitoring throughout the work. Ensure adequate ventilation, either natural or forced, to maintain safe air quality. Implement a standby person system with continuous communication between the worker inside and the standby person outside who can initiate emergency rescue. Establish emergency rescue procedures and ensure rescue equipment is immediately available. All workers entering confined spaces require specific confined space training. Never enter a confined space alone, and never enter to attempt a rescue without proper equipment and training. For plumbing confined spaces that may contain sewage or contaminants, additional hygiene and PPE requirements apply.

Protection from sewage and biological hazards requires a comprehensive approach combining engineering controls, PPE, hygiene practices, and medical surveillance. Provide appropriate personal protective equipment including waterproof gloves, eye protection, protective clothing, and face shields for activities likely to generate splashes or aerosols. Establish strict hygiene protocols including handwashing facilities, prohibition of eating or drinking in contaminated areas, and decontamination procedures for equipment and protective clothing. Implement a vaccination program covering hepatitis A and B, tetanus, and potentially typhoid for workers regularly exposed to sewage. Provide worker training on disease transmission, early symptom recognition, and the importance of reporting potential exposures. Where possible, use engineering controls such as remote inspection equipment (CCTV) to reduce direct sewage contact. Ensure first aid kits include appropriate supplies for treating contaminated wounds, and establish protocols for medical assessment following significant exposures.

Comprehensive safety documentation extends beyond the SWMS itself. Maintain records of SWMS reviews and updates, particularly when work methods change or after incidents. Document toolbox talks and safety meetings where SWMS content is discussed with workers. Keep training records showing all workers have received instruction in relevant SWMS procedures and hold appropriate licences (plumbing, gas fitting, confined space). Maintain equipment inspection records for critical safety equipment including confined space monitoring equipment, pressure testing devices, and gas detection instruments. Document pre-start checks, particularly for high-risk activities such as confined space entry permits, excavation permits, and hot work permits. Keep records of atmospheric testing results for confined space work and pressure testing results for gas and water systems. Maintain incident and near-miss reports to support continuous improvement. Finally, document client or principal contractor sign-off on SWMS where required, demonstrating consultation and acceptance of your safety procedures. These records collectively demonstrate your safety management system and provide evidence of due diligence.