Product Overview

This Lead Paint Removal Management Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the detailed steps, hazards, and controls required to safely manage work involving lead-based coatings and contaminated surfaces. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of lead paint removal and WHS compliance for Australian construction and maintenance sites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Identification, assessment, and classification of existing lead-based paint and lead-containing surface coatings
• Planning and sequencing of lead paint removal works to minimise exposure to workers, occupants, and the public
• Selection and use of appropriate lead paint removal methods, including wet scraping, chemical stripping, and controlled mechanical techniques
• Control of dust, debris, and airborne particulates generated during lead paint disturbance and removal
• Establishment of exclusion zones, barricades, and warning signage around lead-affected work areas
• Use, fit-checking, and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory protection for lead work
• Decontamination procedures for workers, tools, and equipment leaving the lead work area
• Safe collection, containment, labelling, and disposal of lead-contaminated waste in accordance with regulatory requirements
• Ventilation and air monitoring controls to manage airborne lead levels in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces
• Health monitoring considerations for workers who may be exposed to lead over time
• Emergency response procedures for accidental lead exposure, spills, or uncontrolled dust release
• Communication, training, and toolbox talks to ensure workers understand lead hazards and control measures

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for painters, decorators, building and maintenance contractors, demolition crews, refurbishment teams, and site supervisors responsible for projects involving lead-based paint removal or disturbance.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on identifying, assessing, and controlling risks from hazardous chemicals, including lead compounds
• Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice: Controls for manual handling risks associated with scraping, sanding, lifting, and handling waste materials
• How to Safely Remove Lead-Based Paint Code of Practice (where adopted): Specific guidance for planning and undertaking lead paint removal activities
• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for amenities, hygiene, and decontamination facilities for workers exposed to lead
• Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination Code of Practice: Ensuring workers and PCBUs collaborate on managing lead-related risks
• Safe Work Australia – Guidance on the Health Monitoring for Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals: Information on health monitoring requirements for workers exposed to lead
• AS/NZS 1715: Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment: Requirements for appropriate respirator selection and management for lead dust and fume
• AS/NZS 1716: Respiratory protective devices: Performance standards for respirators used during lead paint removal
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017