Product Overview

Summary: This SOP sets out a clear, step-by-step approach for designing, installing, inspecting and removing bracing and support systems in bricklaying works. It helps Australian construction businesses control the risk of wall collapse, protect workers and the public, and demonstrate compliance with WHS duties on structurally sound temporary works.

Unbraced or poorly supported brickwork can become unstable with very little warning, particularly in high wind, when openings are cut, or where partial walls are left overnight. This Bracing and Support Systems in Bricklaying SOP provides a practical, field-ready framework for planning, installing and monitoring temporary bracing so that partially completed masonry remains structurally stable throughout construction. It translates engineering and WHS requirements into clear, task-based instructions that bricklaying teams can follow on any Australian site.

The procedure guides users through pre-start planning, assessment of wall height and length, wind exposure, load paths, and the selection of appropriate bracing systems such as props, ties, needles and shores. It sets out how to install bracing, maintain exclusion zones, conduct inspections after weather events, and safely remove supports once permanent stability is achieved. By implementing this SOP, businesses reduce the likelihood of wall collapse, injuries and property damage, while also supporting consistent training, better supervision and strong evidence of compliance with WHS legislation and relevant Australian Standards.

Key Benefits

• Reduce the risk of brickwork collapse by standardising how bracing and support systems are selected, installed and inspected.
• Ensure compliance with Australian WHS legislation and masonry-related standards through documented, defensible procedures.
• Improve site coordination by clearly defining responsibilities between bricklayers, supervisors, engineers and other trades.
• Enhance worker competence by providing a consistent training tool for apprentices and new team members on safe temporary support practices.
• Minimise project delays and rework by preventing structural failures, damage to completed work and associated investigations.

Who is this for?

• Bricklayers
• Leading Hands – Bricklaying
• Site Supervisors
• Construction Project Managers
• WHS Managers and Advisors
• Site Engineers
• Principal Contractors
• Apprentice Bricklayers
• Safety Officers

Hazards Addressed

• Collapse of partially constructed brick or block walls
• Instability of masonry due to wind loads and weather events
• Failure of temporary props, shores or supports
• Struck-by injuries from falling bricks or wall sections
• Trips and falls around bracing equipment and fixings
• Manual handling injuries when installing or adjusting braces
• Damage to adjacent structures or services from inadequate support
• Public and third-party exposure to unstable masonry near boundaries or public areas

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions and Terminology (Bracing, Shoring, Temporary Works, Masonry Wall Types)
• 3.0 Roles and Responsibilities (Bricklayers, Supervisors, Engineers, WHS Personnel)
• 4.0 Applicable Legislation, Standards and Codes of Practice
• 5.0 Planning and Pre-Start Requirements for Bracing and Support
• 6.0 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment for Unstable Masonry
• 7.0 Selection of Bracing and Support Systems (Props, Ties, Needles, Shores)
• 8.0 Design Considerations and Engineer Involvement
• 9.0 Required Tools, Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• 10.0 Site Preparation and Establishment of Exclusion Zones
• 11.0 Step-by-Step Procedure for Installing Bracing and Support Systems
• 12.0 Inspection, Monitoring and Adjustment of Bracing During Works
• 13.0 Managing Environmental and Weather-Related Risks (Wind, Rain, Ground Conditions)
• 14.0 Interaction with Other Trades, Scaffolding and Temporary Works
• 15.0 Criteria and Procedure for Safe Removal of Bracing and Supports
• 16.0 Emergency Response Procedures for Partial or Imminent Wall Collapse
• 17.0 Training, Competency and Supervision Requirements
• 18.0 Documentation, Records and Inspection Checklists
• 19.0 Review, Audit and Continuous Improvement of the SOP

Legislation & References

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and equivalent state and territory WHS Acts
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth) and equivalent state and territory WHS Regulations
• Safe Work Australia – Code of Practice: Construction Work
• Safe Work Australia – Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces
• AS 3700: Masonry structures
• AS/NZS 1576 series: Scaffolding (for interaction with scaffold-based supports and access)
• AS 3610: Formwork for concrete (for principles relevant to temporary support and propping)
• AS/NZS 1170 series: Structural design actions (wind actions considerations for wall stability)