Product Overview

This Mould Remediation Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is designed to identify, control, and minimise risks associated with mould removal, clean-up, and prevention activities on Australian worksites. It provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to managing biological hazards, chemical use, and environmental conditions to support robust WHS compliance during mould remediation work.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Assessment and identification of biological hazards such as mould, fungi, and associated microbial contamination
• Management of enclosed workspace issues including dampness, poor ventilation, condensation, and pest-related contamination
• Selection, safe handling, mixing, and application of mould remediation chemicals and cleaning agents
• Safe methods for mould and residue cleaning on walls, ceilings, floors, furnishings, and building materials
• Control measures to minimise worker exposure to airborne mould spores, dust, and contaminated materials
• Implementation of mould prevention measures, including moisture control, improved ventilation, and leak rectification
• Procedures for effective mould removal and long-term prevention strategies in residential, commercial, and industrial settings
• Removal of mould and mildew from porous and non-porous surfaces using appropriate tools and techniques
• Management of respiratory risks arising from damp or mould-affected spaces, including health monitoring considerations
• Use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE), eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing for mould remediation tasks
• Establishment of work area isolation, containment, and negative air control to prevent cross-contamination
• Safe collection, bagging, labelling, and disposal of mould-contaminated waste and materials
• Decontamination procedures for tools, equipment, and PPE after mould remediation activities

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for mould remediation specialists, restoration contractors, builders, facility managers, cleaners, maintenance personnel, and site supervisors responsible for works in damp, water-damaged, or mould-affected environments.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Guidance on ventilation, temperature, and safe work environments in enclosed or damp spaces
• How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Systematic identification, assessment, and control of mould-related hazards
• Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice: Controls for lifting, carrying, and handling mould-contaminated building materials and equipment
• Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Safe storage, handling, and use of mould remediation chemicals and cleaning agents
• Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice: Where access to mould-affected ceilings, roofs, or elevated areas is required
• AS/NZS 1715: Selection, use, and maintenance of respiratory protective devices for mould remediation activities
• AS/NZS 1716: Respiratory protective devices performance requirements for work in mould-affected environments
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017