Product Overview

This Working on Roofs Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a comprehensive safety planning document designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls for all roof access and work activities. It provides end-to-end coverage of working at heights and associated roofing tasks to support strong WHS compliance on Australian worksites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Planning and approval of roof work, including SWMS briefing, permits, and consultation with workers
• Selection and inspection of ladders, roof access systems, and temporary edge protection before use
• Safe use of fall prevention systems such as guardrails, scaffolds, and roof perimeter protection
• Use, inspection, and maintenance of fall arrest systems, including harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points
• Accessing and egressing roofs safely, including transition from ladders, scaffolds, and elevated work platforms
• Working on fragile, brittle, or damaged roofing materials and controlling the risk of roof collapse or breakthrough
• Managing trip hazards, loose materials, and housekeeping on roofs to prevent slips, trips, and falls
• Manual handling of roofing materials, tools, and equipment on and around roofs
• Working near roof edges, skylights, penetrations, and roof openings with appropriate guarding and controls
• Control of environmental conditions such as wind, rain, heat, and UV exposure during roof work
• Use of power tools, hand tools, and plant on roofs, including securing leads and preventing dropped objects
• Emergency response planning for falls from height, rescue procedures, and first aid arrangements
• Coordination of multiple contractors and trades working on the same roof or structure

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for roofers, builders, solar installers, maintenance technicians, plumbers, electricians, and site supervisors responsible for managing or carrying out work on roofs.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice: Guidance on controlling risks associated with working at heights, including roofs
• Construction Work Code of Practice: Requirements for planning and undertaking construction activities, including roofing work
• How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls
• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for safe access, amenities, and emergency planning
• AS/NZS 1891 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices: Selection, use, and maintenance of fall arrest equipment
• AS/NZS 1657 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders: Design and use of safe access systems for roof work
• AS/NZS 4389 Safety mesh: Requirements for safety mesh used under roofing
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017