Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides a structured, step-by-step approach to the safe installation of guardrails and edge protection on Australian worksites, with a clear focus on preventing falls from height. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of Guardrail and Edge Protection Installation SWMS, from planning and setup through to inspection, maintenance, and dismantling in line with WHS compliance requirements.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Inspection, identification, and management of corroded or defective handrails and guardrails prior to use
• Ensuring compliant perimeter guardrails are installed, maintained, and secured around all exposed edges
• Erection of protective parapets and edge barriers to prevent persons and materials falling from height
• Managing risks associated with faulty, damaged, missing, or inadequate guard railing on existing structures
• Guard rail installations at height, including safe access, work positioning, and use of fall prevention systems
• General guardrail installation methods, including post fixing, bracing, and securing top, mid, and kick rails
• Installing temporary edge protection fencing to segregate work zones and protect workers and the public
• Preventing falls into openings such as voids, stairwells, service penetrations, and floor cut-outs
• Roof edge protection planning and installation for pitched, flat, and fragile roof surfaces
• Securing eave protection and gutter-line guardrails to control fall risks along building perimeters
• Setup of temporary safety railings for short-term works, maintenance tasks, and minor alterations
• Working safely near open holes, penetrations, and excavations, including barricading and cover systems
• Selection and safe use of ladders, scaffolds, or elevating work platforms to access guardrail work areas
• Manual handling techniques for lifting, carrying, and installing guardrail posts, rails, and components
• Inspection, tagging, and ongoing monitoring of installed guardrails and edge protection throughout the project

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for carpenters, roofers, scaffolders, commercial and residential builders, edge protection installers, and site supervisors responsible for managing fall prevention and perimeter protection on construction sites.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Model Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces – guidance on preventing falls from one level to another, including use of guardrails and edge protection
• Model Code of Practice: Construction Work – requirements for planning and carrying out construction activities, including high risk construction work at heights
• AS/NZS 4994 Temporary edge protection series – requirements for design, installation, and performance of temporary edge protection systems
• AS/NZS 1657 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders – Design, construction and installation – design and installation criteria for permanent guardrails and access systems
• AS/NZS 1891 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices (relevant parts) – selection and use of fall-arrest equipment where required during installation
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017