Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the high-risk work activities, hazards, and controls for Gas Pipeline Installation and Maintenance to help your business achieve strong WHS compliance and reduce the risk of gas-related incidents. It is a comprehensive, ready-to-use document that covers multiple aspects of gas pipeline construction, modification, repair, and ongoing maintenance activities on Australian worksites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Compressed gas fitting, including safe selection, connection, and tightening of gas fittings and components
• Managing dangers from gas pipes, ignition sources, and other flammable materials in the work area
• Identification, monitoring, and control of exposure to gas-related risks such as leaks, fumes, and asphyxiation
• Safe adjustment and verification of gas pressure regulators and associated control equipment
• Installation of new gas pipelines, including trenching, support, routing, and securing of pipework
• Isolation of gas supply using approved lock-out/tag-out procedures and confirmation of zero-energy state
• Routine and corrective maintenance of gas utilities, valves, meters, and associated infrastructure
• Modifying existing gas flow paths, including cutting, joining, capping, and re-routing of gas lines
• Repair work on damaged or leaking gas lines, including emergency response and temporary isolation
• Leak testing, purging, and commissioning of gas pipelines prior to return to service
• Use of gas detection equipment to monitor flammable and toxic atmospheres in and around the work zone
• Housekeeping, signage, and exclusion zones to control public and worker access near live gas infrastructure
• Coordination with other contractors and utilities to prevent service strikes and cross-service interference

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for gas fitters, pipeline construction crews, utility maintenance teams, mechanical contractors, and site supervisors responsible for gas pipeline installation, modification, and maintenance activities.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017
• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on handling, storage, and risk management of hazardous and flammable gases
• Safe Work Australia – Confined Spaces Code of Practice: Requirements where gas work is performed in pits, chambers, or other confined spaces
• Safe Work Australia – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls
• Safe Work Australia – Construction Work Code of Practice: Requirements for construction-related gas pipeline installation and associated excavation works
• AS/NZS 5601 Gas Installations (Parts 1 & 2): Requirements for safe design, installation, and commissioning of gas installations
• AS/NZS 1596 The Storage and Handling of LP Gas: Guidance for work involving LPG systems and associated pipework
• AS/NZS 60079 (Explosive Atmospheres series): Requirements for equipment and work practices in areas where flammable gas atmospheres may be present