Construction Method Statement
A Construction Method Statement is a document detailing how a construction project will be executed safely and efficiently. In Australia, it is required to comply with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 to manage risks on site.
A document outlining how a construction project will be carried out safely, efficiently and in compliance with Australian regulations.
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About this Document
A Construction Method Statement is a vital document for anyone working in the Australian construction industry. It details the exact steps you will take to complete a project safely and efficiently. This document is not just paperwork. It is a practical plan that protects your workers, the public, and your business. In Australia, workplace safety is governed by strict laws. The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 requires persons conducting a business or undertaking to ensure the health and safety of workers. This document helps you meet those legal duties. It explains how you will manage risks on site. It tells your clients and principal contractors that you know what you are doing. This guide will explain exactly what a Construction Method Statement is. It will cover when you need one and how to write one. It will look at the legal requirements across Australia. It will also help you avoid common mistakes that can lead to fines or work stoppages.
Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, you must manage risks. You must eliminate risks so far as is reasonably practicable. If you cannot eliminate a risk, you must minimise it. A Construction Method Statement is the tool you use to show how you will do this. It works alongside your Safe Work Method Statement. However, a Method Statement is broader. It covers the entire project sequence. It includes site setup, the order of works, and how you will handle environmental issues. It is essential for high risk construction work. This includes work at heights, in confined spaces, or near overhead powerlines. If you are a subcontractor, the principal contractor will often ask for this document before you start work.
To write a good statement, you need to know your project inside out. You must list the tasks in the order they will happen. You must identify the hazards for each task. You then write down the control measures. Control measures are the steps you take to keep people safe. This might include using specific equipment or following certain procedures. For example, if you are excavating, you must consider the risk of trench collapse. Your statement must detail how you will shore the trench. It must say how you will position machinery away from the edge. You must also consider environmental impacts. Australian states have strict environmental protection laws. You must explain how you will manage dust, noise, and waste disposal.
The Fair Work Act 2009 and relevant awards dictate how you pay and treat your workers. While the Method Statement focuses on safety and method, it must align with industrial requirements. For instance, ensuring adequate breaks and shift lengths helps manage fatigue. Fatigue is a major safety risk on construction sites. Your statement should reflect how you will manage worker hours to prevent accidents. This shows a commitment to worker welfare beyond just physical safety.
You should also consider the Australian Standards. AS/NZS 4801 is the standard for occupational health and safety management systems. Following these standards helps you create a professional document. Even if you are a small tradesperson, your document should look professional. It builds trust with clients. It shows you are compliant and capable. Insurance companies may also ask to see your Method Statements if there is an incident. Having a document can help defend your business in legal proceedings.
Completing the document involves several steps. First, describe the project scope. What are you building or renovating? Where is the site? What are the site conditions? Next, list the resources you need. This includes plant, equipment, and materials. Then, detail the method of construction. Break the project down into stages. For each stage, describe the activity. Identify the risks. List the controls. You must also include emergency procedures. What happens if there is an injury or a spill? Who is the first aid officer? Where is the assembly point? These details are for compliance.
One common mistake is copying and pasting from old documents. Every site is different. A generic statement will not protect you. You must tailor the document to the specific risks of the current job. Inspectors from Safe Work Australia or state regulators will spot a generic document immediately. Another mistake is being too vague. Do not just write "use PPE". Write "use class 5 high visibility clothing and steel capped boots". Being specific leaves no room for ambiguity.
Communication is key. You cannot write the document and file it away. You must share it with your workers. You must ensure they understand the methods and controls. The WHS Act requires you to consult with workers. They often spot risks that you might miss. Involving them in the process creates a safer culture. It also ensures the document is practical and usable.
For specific trades like electricians or plumbers, there are additional regulatory bodies. You might need to consider Energy Safe Victoria or similar bodies in other states. Their guidelines may dictate specific methods for high risk work. Your Construction Method Statement should reference these regulations where applicable. This demonstrates a thorough understanding of your compliance obligations.
Record keeping is also important. You must keep a copy of the statement on site. It must be easily accessible to workers and inspectors. If you make changes to the work method, you must update the document. You must tell workers about the changes. Failure to do so is a breach of the WHS Act.
In summary, a Construction Method Statement is a plan. It is a legal requirement for many projects. It is a best practice for all projects. It integrates safety, environmental management, and project planning. Taking the time to write a detailed statement saves time and money in the long run. It prevents accidents. It ensures your project runs smoothly. It protects your most valuable asset, your people. It also protects your business from legal and financial risk. Treat this document as a core part of your business operations, not just an administrative hurdle.
Key Facts
- A Construction Method Statement is required for all High Risk Construction Work under the WHS Regulations.— Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth)
- Principal contractors must ensure a Safe Work Method Statement is available before work commences.— Safe Work Australia Code of Practice
- Businesses must consult with workers when preparing method statements.— Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth)
- Failure to provide an adequate statement can result in fines or prosecution for WHS breaches.— Safe Work Australia
- The statement must be specific to the site and not a generic copy paste document.— Safe Work Australia Code of Practice
Sources
Required Sections
Project Overview
Details about the specific site and scope of work.
Project Overview
You must clearly define the project location, the client, and the scope of works at the start of this statement. This information sets the legal and practical boundaries for the job. Start by recording the full site address, including lot and plan numbers if available. Identify the site access points and any specific constraints, such as proximity to roads or neighbouring properties. You must include details of site boundaries and mark where you will locate site amenities, like toilets and material storage areas. Accurately identifying the location ensures you comply with local council requirements and traffic management regulations under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act) and relevant state road laws.
Identify the client by name and include their contact details. If you are working for a head contractor rather than a property owner, list that entity. You must also document any other key stakeholders, such as the principal designer or building surveyor. Knowing who controls the site is vital for reporting requirements and duty of care under the WHS Regulations. If the client retains control of parts of the site, you must note this to clarify your safety responsibilities.
Defining the scope of works is the most critical part of this overview. Be specific about the exact construction activities you will perform. Avoid vague descriptions. List the specific tasks, such as "demolition of existing internal walls" or "installation of steel structural beams." You must reference the contract documents and drawings that govern the work. Explicitly state what is excluded from the scope to prevent disputes. For example, if you are responsible for installation but not final painting, say so.
Your scope description must consider the technical standards relevant to the work. Mention the National Construction Code (NCC) volumes that apply to the project. If your work involves specific structural or safety aspects, cite relevant Australian Standards, such as AS 1684 for residential timber framing or AS 3000 for electrical installations. This demonstrates your compliance with the Building Code of Australia. You must also note any specific licenses or permits required for the scope, such as high-risk work licences or asbestos removal licences. By detailing the scope with reference to these regulations, you protect your business and ensure every worker understands the technical and legal requirements of the job.
Risk Assessment
Identification of hazards and control measures.
Risk Assessment
You must identify hazards for every specific task listed in this statement. Start by breaking the work down into step-by-step activities. Inspect the site for physical risks like uneven ground, overhead powerlines, or confined spaces. Consider the materials you will handle, such as hazardous chemicals or heavy loads, and the equipment required for the job. Think about how environmental factors like extreme heat, rain, or wind might change the site conditions. Consult with your workers during this process, as they often spot risks that you might miss. Always review safety data sheets (SDS) for substances used on site.
Once you identify a hazard, you must choose control measures using the hierarchy of control. This is a legal requirement under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Work Health and Safety Regulations. The hierarchy ranks controls from most effective to least effective. You must aim to eliminate the risk first.
If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the hazard, you must minimise the risk using one or more of the following approaches.
Substitution Replace the hazard with something safer. For example, use a water-based paint instead of a solvent-based one, or use a smaller piece of plant that creates less noise and vibration.
Isolation Separate people from the hazard. Use physical barriers like concrete bollards to separate vehicles from pedestrians, or install guardrails around exposed edges at heights. Acoustic enclosures can isolate workers from loud machinery.
Engineering Controls Modify the plant or equipment. Attach extraction fans to capture dust at the source, use reverse cameras on vehicles, or fit mechanical aids like trolleys and hoists to reduce manual handling risks.
Administrative Controls Change the way people work. These should only be used after higher-level controls are in place. Implement safe work method statements, rotate workers to reduce fatigue, or display clear warning signage. Provide training and supervision to ensure everyone understands the risks and the procedures.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) This is the lowest level of control. Use PPE like hard hats, high visibility vests, safety boots, and hearing protection to supplement other measures. Never rely on PPE alone when you can use a higher-level control.
Document your findings in the risk register attached to this method statement. This documentation is essential for compliance and helps you monitor safety throughout the project. If work conditions change, you must stop and review your risk assessment immediately.
Sequence of Works
Step by step order of construction activities.
1. Site Establishment and Mobilisation Secure the site boundary with temporary fencing, hoarding, or concrete barriers to comply with AS 4687-2009 (Temporary fencing and hoarding). Install clear signage under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act) and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (WHS Regulation), including site entry rules and emergency contact details. Establish site amenities and facilities that meet the requirements of the Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities. Connect temporary utilities and protect existing services by locating them via Dial Before You Dig plans.
2. Bulk Earthworks and Excavation Clear vegetation and strip topsoil for storage or removal. Perform bulk cut and fill operations to design levels. Conduct excavation for foundations and services, ensuring shoring, benching, or shielding is used where ground stability is a risk, in accordance with AS 2870-2011 (Residential slabs and footings) and AS 4744-2000 (Earth-moving machinery). Manage dust suppression through water carts to meet environmental protection requirements. Arrange for an accredited testing lab to certify compaction levels before proceeding.
3. Substructure and Groundworks Place granular bedding layers for pipework and concrete slabs. Install below-ground stormwater, sewer, and water mains, ensuring backfill is compacted in layers to AS 3798-2007 (Guidelines on earthworks for commercial and residential developments). Form and pour concrete footings and slabs, using slump tests and compression cylinders to verify concrete strength meets AS 1379-2007 (Specification and supply of concrete). Install waterproofing membranes to wet areas and below-ground structures in line with AS 4654.2-2012 (Waterproofing of domestic wet areas).
4. Structural Frame and Enclosure Erect structural steel, timber, or precast concrete frames. Install load-bearing walls, roof trusses, and roofing materials. Ensure all structural connections comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) Volume One or Two. Fit external windows and doors, securing them to manufacturer specifications and AS 2047-2014 (Windows and doors). Install external cladding and masonry, paying attention to weep holes and cavity ties to manage moisture ingress.
5. Internal Fit-Out and Services Install internal wall and ceiling framing. Run electrical cabling, data cabling, and plumbing rough-in, adhering to AS 3000-2018 (Wiring Rules) and AS 3500 (Plumbing and drainage). Install thermal and acoustic insulation to meet Section J of the NCC. Apply wall linings, set plaster, and install architraves and skirtings. Fit joinery, cabinetry, and fixed fixtures.
6. Finishing and Commissioning Apply all decorative finishes such as painting, tiling, and flooring. Install mechanical systems, including air conditioning and ventilation. Balance and test all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Clean the site thoroughly and remove construction waste.
7. Practical Completion and Handover Conduct a final inspection against the approved plans and specifications. Compile all Operation and Maintenance manuals and compliance certificates required under the Building Act and relevant state development codes. Address any defects identified by the client or certifier. Obtain the final occupation certificate or certificate of classification prior to handing over the keys.
Plant and Equipment
Machinery and tools required for the job.
Plant and Equipment List
The following machinery and power tools will be utilised on site to complete the works efficiently.
- Excavation and Earthmoving: 1.5 Tonne Mini Excavator (rubber tracks) and 5 Tonne Tipper Truck.
- Access and Height: 3.5 Metre Aluminium Scaffold (Keder frame) and 2.4 Metre Single Man Cage.
- Concrete and Compaction: 240v Concrete Vibrator, 65mm Plate Compactor, and Portable Cement Mixer.
- General Power Tools: 240v Angle Grinders, 185mm Circular Saw, Cordless Combination Drills, and Rotary Hammer Drill.
- Site Support: Petrol Generator (5kVA), portable lighting towers, and Material Hoist.
Specific tools will be selected based on the daily task schedule. Operators will only use machinery they are trained and qualified to operate.
Maintenance and Inspection Requirements
All plant and equipment must be in safe working order before arriving on site. We comply with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth), specifically Part 4.5 regarding Plant.
Pre-start Inspections
Operators must complete a documented pre-start inspection check list before using any plant or equipment. This includes checking fluid levels, tyres or tracks, brakes, steering, and safety guards. If any defects are found, the machine must be immediately tagged 'Danger - Do Not Use' and removed from service. The defect must be reported to the Site Supervisor and recorded in the Site Register.
Maintenance Logging
We maintain a register of all high-risk plant. Maintenance records are kept on site and available for inspection. These records detail the service history, repairs, and modifications. Maintenance is performed by qualified persons in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure warranty and safety compliance.
Standards and Compliance
All plant and equipment meets relevant Australian Standards. This includes electrical equipment testing to AS/NZS 3760 (In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment) and scaffolding compliance to AS/NZS 1576. All 240 volt power tools and extension leads will be visually inspected and tagged by a competent person. The current test tag must be visible on the cord or casing.
Operator Requirements
Operators of specified high-risk plant, such as the excavator and slewing mobile crane, must hold a valid High Risk Work Licence issued by Safe Work Australia or the relevant state authority. General operators must hold a valid Construction Induction Card (White Card). All personnel wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when operating machinery, including high visibility clothing, steel-capped boots, and hearing protection.
Unauthorised persons are strictly prohibited from operating plant or equipment under any circumstances. Refuelling will take place in designated well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources, with the engine turned off.
Emergency Procedures
Plans for dealing with incidents on site.
Fire
If you discover a fire, raise the alarm immediately. Notify the Site Supervisor and call 000. Request fire services. Only attempt to fight the fire if it is safe to do so, the fire is small, and you have the correct equipment. Always ensure you have a clear escape route before using a fire extinguisher.
Upon hearing the fire alarm, stop all work immediately. Shut down machinery and equipment if it is safe and quick to do so. Turn off gas valves and electrical isolators where applicable. Leave all tools and personal belongings behind. Proceed to the designated assembly point via the nearest safe exit. Do not use the lifts. Walk briskly and do not run. Do not re-enter the building until the Site Supervisor or Fire Brigade gives the all clear.
Report all fires, near misses, and activations of fire equipment to the Site Supervisor. This requirement complies with the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 regarding the maintenance of emergency plans.
Injury and Medical Incident
In the event of a serious injury or medical emergency, call 000 immediately. Provide clear details of your location, the nature of the injury, and the condition of the patient. Do not move the patient unless there is an immediate risk of further harm, such as a collapsing structure or fire. If you are trained to do so, administer first aid using the site first aid kit.
Notify the Site Supervisor as soon as possible. The supervisor is responsible for ensuring the site is safe for emergency services personnel. For minor injuries, report to the Site Supervisor or First Aid Officer. Complete an incident report form immediately after the incident. This is a mandatory requirement under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. If the incident results in serious injury or death, it is a notifiable incident and must be reported to Safe Work NSW or the relevant state regulator.
Severe Weather
Severe weather, including electrical storms, high winds, and heavy rain, poses significant risks on a construction site. The Site Supervisor monitors weather forecasts daily. Work must stop immediately if lightning is visible or if electrical storms approach.
When high winds are forecast, secure all loose materials, scaffolding, and temporary structures. Remove or weigh down lightweight materials that could become projectiles. In the event of a severe weather warning, stop work and move to a safe, enclosed structure. Do not shelter under scaffolding, trees, or cranes. Remain in the safe area until the Site Supervisor issues an all clear.
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency Services: 000
- Site Supervisor: [Insert Name and Phone Number]
- First Aid Officer: [Insert Name and Phone Number]
- Client Representative: [Insert Name and Phone Number]
Assembly Point
The primary assembly point is located at [Insert specific location, e.g., the north-east corner of the car park near the gate]. Do not block the driveway or access roads, as this impedes emergency service vehicles. All personnel must gather at the assembly point to ensure a headcount can be taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Construction Method Statement?
When do I need a Construction Method Statement?
Is a Construction Method Statement legally required in Australia?
What is the difference between a SWMS and a Construction Method Statement?
Who is responsible for writing the Construction Method Statement?
Can I use a template for my Construction Method Statement?
What happens if I do not have a Construction Method Statement on site?
Do I need to update the statement during the project?
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