Work method statements

A work method statement is prepared by the builder for their employees or by the subcontractor for the work they do. A work method statement details how certain prescribed and high-risk construction activities will be undertaken safely at the workplace.

What are high-risk construction activities?

High risk construction activities include any of the following:

  • Entering a trench more than 1.5 metres deep
  • Tilt-up and pre-cast concrete construction work
  • Structural alterations requiring temporary support
  • Movement of powered mobile plant
  • Work in, over, or adjacent to water where there is risk of drowning
  • Work on, or adjacent to, a road or railway
  • Work near an exposed energised electrical installation
  • Work on telecommunications towers
  • Work on or near gas lines/pipes
  • Work on or near chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines
  • Work in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere
  • Work in artificial extremes of temperature
  • Using explosives other than powder-actuated hand-held fastening tools
  • Working in a confined space
  • Using a hazardous substance
  • Work where a person could fall at least 3 metres for housing construction work, or at least 2 metres for other construction work
  • Working on a roof with a pitch greater than 26 degrees
  • Where the builder concludes an activity could result in death or bodily harm.

What information will the statement contain? 

The employer or subcontractor must detail how they will do the high-risk work. The completed work method statement must be signed and dated by the employer or subcontractor and the builder before the work being detailed commences.

The work method statement must take into account the overall construction safety plan, and also include the following information:

  • The high-risk construction activity (i.e. working in a deep trench)
  • The employer’s or contractor’s ABN
  • The control measures to be used
  • The way the activity will be performed
  • How the control measures will be monitored and reviewed
  • Any relevant prescribed occupations.

Prescribed activities

Certificate holders for the prescribed activities of demolition work and asbestos removal must also prepare a work method statement. The work method statement must take into account the builder's construction workplace plan and also include:

  • The certificate number to perform the activity
  • Arrangements for appropriate training and supervision
  • Applicable requirements of AS 2601 – Demolition of Structures for demolition work
  • For asbestos removal, safe work procedures in accordance with the national codes of practice for the management and safe removal of asbestos.

Templates & training

Visit the Master Builders eShop to purchase template work method statements on disk online, download the contract order form or visit your local Master Builders office to purchase contracts over the counter.

Master Builders Work Method Statement Kits contain:

  • A guide on how to complete a work method statement
  • A work method statement template
  • Sample work method statements to assist you in your own preparation.

We also run a training course – How to Prepare a Work Method Statement – developed to help you to understand and prepare work method statements. Refer to the Master Builders course calendar or contact your local office for training times and details.