Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for Working in Public Areas is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls to protect workers and members of the public. It is a comprehensive document that supports WHS compliance and effective management of High Risk Construction Work carried out in or adjacent to public spaces.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Planning of work in public areas, including site assessment, traffic patterns, and public interface risks
• Establishment of exclusion zones, barricades, fencing, and signage to separate work activities from the public
• Management of pedestrian movements around the work area, including safe detours, crossings, and access routes
• Coordination of vehicle movements, loading zones, and delivery areas in locations shared with the public
• Control of noise, dust, vibration, and other nuisances that may affect nearby businesses, residents, and passers-by
• Safe handling and storage of tools, equipment, and materials to prevent trips, falls, and falling-object risks in public spaces
• Emergency response planning for incidents involving both workers and members of the public
• Communication with local authorities, building managers, and stakeholders prior to and during works in public areas
• Management of work near live services, street furniture, and public infrastructure (e.g. bus stops, street lighting)
• Implementation of traffic control measures where required, including interaction with authorised traffic controllers
• Safe work practices during set-up and pack-down of temporary work areas in streets, footpaths, and plazas
• Monitoring and supervision of workers and subcontractors to ensure ongoing compliance with public safety controls

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for builders, civil contractors, maintenance crews, utility providers, landscapers, shopfitters, and site supervisors undertaking work in or adjacent to public areas.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Code of Practice: Construction Work – Guidance on managing risks associated with construction activities, including work in public areas
• Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities – Requirements for safe access, egress, and amenities where the public may be affected
• Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – Framework for identifying hazards and implementing controls in public spaces
• Code of Practice: Traffic Management in Workplaces – Guidance for managing vehicle and pedestrian interaction in and around work zones
• AS 1742 – Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices – Requirements for signage and traffic control devices around road and footpath work areas
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017