The obligation
Construction work where a potential fall may be from 2 metres or more is high-risk construction work, and a SWMS must be prepared before the work begins.
The SWMS must detail the fall hazards identified, the controls to be used and how they will be monitored and reviewed. If administrative controls such as training, safe work procedures, exclusion zones, permit systems, signs or PPE are relied on for a fall risk of more than 2 metres but less than 3 metres, the SWMS must describe why fall prevention measures were not used. For roof work with a risk of falling between 2 and 3 metres, the controls are identified through the SWMS.
- What
- Construction work where a potential fall may be from 2 metres or more is high-risk construction work, and a SWMS must be prepared before the work begins.
- Source
- worksafe.wa.gov.au
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Safe work method statement for construction work with a fall risk of 2 metres or more is a WHS requirement set out in Managing the risk of falls in housing construction (WA). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA).
What does this WHS obligation require?
Safe work method statement for construction work with a fall risk of 2 metres or more is a WHS obligation under Managing the risk of falls in housing construction (WA). In short, Construction work where a potential fall may be from 2 metres or more is high-risk construction work, and a SWMS must be prepared before the work begins.
What changed recently?
Safe work method statement for construction work with a fall risk of 2 metres or more was last updated on 9 October 2026.
