The obligation
Designers must apply the hierarchy of controls — starting with elimination — when identifying and addressing health and safety risks in the design of a structure.
The Code directs designers to apply the WHS Act's hierarchy of controls during the design process: first seek to eliminate risks by design; if not reasonably practicable, substitute, isolate, use engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE in descending order. The Code provides guidance on how these controls are applied at the design stage, where risk-reduction is most effective and lowest cost. Case studies in Appendix D illustrate application across structure types.
- What
- Designers must apply the hierarchy of controls — starting with elimination — when identifying and addressing health and safety risks in the design of a structure.
- Source
- legislation.act.gov.au
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hierarchy of controls
risk management
elimination
safe design
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Applying the Hierarchy of Controls in Structural Design is a WHS requirement set out in Safe Design of Structures (ACT). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (ACT). The relevant provision is Part 3 — Managing risks / Hierarchy of controls.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Applying the Hierarchy of Controls in Structural Design is a WHS obligation under Safe Design of Structures (ACT). In short, Designers must apply the hierarchy of controls — starting with elimination — when identifying and addressing health and safety risks in the design of a structure.
What changed recently?
Applying the Hierarchy of Controls in Structural Design was last updated on 6 October 2026.
