Product Overview

This Handyman Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and document safe work methods for general handyman activities in domestic, commercial, and construction environments. It is a comprehensive, task-based document that covers multiple aspects of handyman work to support WHS compliance and effective risk management.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Fixing and securing bathroom accessories such as towel bars, robe hooks, and toilet roll holders to a variety of wall substrates
• Installing wall-mounted shelves, brackets, and storage systems in bathrooms, kitchens, offices, and living spaces
• Selection and safe use of hand tools (e.g. screwdrivers, hammers, pliers) for general handyman tasks
• Selection and safe operation of portable power tools, including drills, impact drivers, and stud finders
• Locating wall studs and safely drilling into walls while avoiding concealed services such as electrical wiring and plumbing
• Working from step ladders and small portable platforms for overhead or high-level fixing tasks
• Manual handling of fixtures, fittings, and materials to minimise strain and musculoskeletal injuries
• Measuring, marking, and verifying levels to ensure accurate and safe installation of accessories and shelving
• Housekeeping controls to manage dust, debris, offcuts, and trip hazards in occupied or public areas
• Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye, hand, hearing, and respiratory protection where required
• Managing interaction with building occupants, other trades, and the public in residential and commercial environments
• Emergency procedures for minor injuries, exposure to hazardous materials, or damage to live services

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for handymen, maintenance contractors, facility managers, small builders, and site supervisors overseeing general repair, installation, and fit-off works.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – Principles for identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls for handyman activities
• Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls in Housing Construction – Guidance on safe use of ladders and working at low heights during installation tasks
• Code of Practice: Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work – Relevant to the use of power tools such as drills and impact drivers
• Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks – Controls for lifting, carrying, and positioning fixtures and materials
• AS/NZS 3012: Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites – Safe use of portable electrical equipment and RCD protection on worksites
• AS/NZS 3760: In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment – Inspection and testing requirements for portable power tools used by handymen
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017