Demolition SWMS

Demolition work involves the deliberate removal of load-bearing structures and exposes workers to collapse, asbestos, and hazardous material risks that can cause immediate death or long-latency disease. The WHS Regulation 2025 classifies demolition of any load-bearing structure as high risk construction work requiring a SWMS. A mandatory pre-demolition asbestos survey must be completed before any demolition begins. This template maps controls to the binding Demolition Work Code of Practice effective 1 July 2026.

Legal Requirements

regulation

WHS Regulation 2025 Part 4.4 — High Risk Construction Work

hrcw category

Demolition of a load-bearing structure

code of practice

Demolition Work (binding 1 July 2026 under Section 26A)

section 26a binding

Yes — effective 1 July 2026. Non-compliance is admissible as evidence of breach.

Hazards

Hazard	Consequence	Likelihood
Uncontrolled structural collapse during load-bearing element removal	Multiple fatalities, crush injuries	Possible
Asbestos-containing material disturbance (mandatory pre-demo survey)	Mesothelioma, asbestosis (20-50 year latency)	Likely
Hazardous material exposure — lead paint, PCBs, synthetic mineral fibre	Chemical poisoning, respiratory illness, cancer	Possible
Flying debris and uncontrolled material fall	Traumatic injury, lacerations, eye injuries	Likely
Hidden services — live electrical, gas, pressurised water	Electrocution, explosion, flooding	Possible
Dust generation exceeding exposure standards	Respiratory disease, silicosis	Likely

Controls (Hierarchy of Controls)

Commission a pre-demolition survey identifying asbestos, hazardous materials, and structural elements

Obtain structural engineer sign-off on the demolition methodology and sequence

Establish exclusion zones around the demolition area with physical barriers and signage

Remove all asbestos-containing materials by licensed removalists before structural demolition begins

Disconnect and cap all services — electrical, gas, water, telecommunications — with written confirmation

Implement dust suppression using water sprays, misting systems, and enclosure where practicable

Use mechanical demolition plant with ROPS/FOPS cabs to minimise worker proximity to collapse zones

Recent Prosecutions

Rapid Demolition Pty Ltd$4,500

Failed to implement adequate exclusion zones and dust suppression during demolition of commercial building. Workers and public exposed to uncontrolled debris.

2025 — SafeWork NSW v Rapid Demolition Pty Ltd [2025]

What Your SWMS Must Include

✓Pre-demolition asbestos survey report and hazardous materials register

✓Structural engineer-approved demolition methodology and sequence

✓Exclusion zone dimensions and physical barrier specifications

✓Service disconnection confirmation from all utility providers

✓Emergency procedures for unplanned structural collapse

Need a compliant Demolition SWMS?

Our WHS consultants develop demolition SWMS with structural engineer coordination and asbestos management integration that satisfy regulator expectations.