Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides a structured approach to safely managing termite control activities and installing pre-construction barriers, helping your business maintain strong WHS compliance on site. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of Termite Management and Pre-Construction Barriers, from inspection and treatment through to ongoing monitoring and documentation.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Planning and preparation for termite management works, including site assessment and consultation with builders and clients
• Conducting safe pest inspections in and around existing structures, including access to subfloors, roof spaces, and external perimeters
• Performing detailed termite infestation checks using appropriate tools, lighting, moisture meters, and detection equipment
• Identifying, assessing, and documenting termite activity, damage, and conducive conditions in residential and commercial properties
• Applying post-construction termite treatments, including chemical soil treatments, dusts, foams, and baiting systems
• Installing and maintaining termite baiting and monitoring systems while controlling exposure to chemicals and environmental hazards
• Implementing pre-construction termite management systems, including physical and chemical barriers around slabs, footings, and service penetrations
• Handling, mixing, and applying termiticides and other pest control chemicals in accordance with manufacturer instructions and safety data sheets (SDS)
• Managing risks associated with working in confined or restricted spaces such as subfloors, crawl spaces, and service voids
• Safe use of tools and equipment, including drills, injection equipment, hand tools, and portable electrical equipment
• Traffic and pedestrian management when working around driveways, access ways, and active construction zones
• Housekeeping, spill control, waste management, and environmental protection during termite treatment activities
• Communication with site supervisors, builders, and occupants, including signage, barricading, and notification of treated areas
• Emergency response procedures for chemical exposure, spills, slips, trips, falls, and other foreseeable incidents

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for licensed pest management technicians, termite specialists, builders, construction contractors, and site supervisors involved in termite management and pre-construction barrier installations on Australian worksites.

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 safe storage, handling, and use of termiticides and other pest control chemicals
• How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying, assessing, and controlling risks associated with termite management activities
• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for safe access, egress, ventilation, and amenities when working in and around buildings
• Confined Spaces Code of Practice: Applicable where termite inspection or treatment involves entry into confined or restricted subfloor areas
• Safe Work Australia – Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS): Reference for classification and labelling of hazardous substances used in termite treatments
• AS 3660.1 Termite Management – New Building Work: Requirements for termite management systems in new constructions
• AS 3660.2 Termite Management – In and Around Existing Buildings and Structures: Guidance for ongoing termite management and post-construction treatments
• AS 3660.3 Termite Management – Assessment Criteria for Termite Management Systems: Performance criteria for termite management systems installed on site
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017