Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement

Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS Template) delivered in Microsoft Word format for easy editing.

Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement

Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)

Whether you need to get on site to start work, looking to create a safe work environment or pitching that next Government Tender, the Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement is easy to customise, easy to use and easily integrates into your current Safety Management System (if you have one! If not, we need to talk, seriously. Don't take that sort of risk - we can help).

Look, we understand business can be hard enough as it is without all the red tape, often written in language only a martian would understand. That's why every Safe Work Method Statement Template is written in an easy to understand format, while at the same time being some of the highest quality in the industry. Our SWMS documents get you on site, save you loads of time and are easy to use. This way, you can get on with doing what you do best.


The Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) covers the following Job Steps, including potential hazards, control measures and risk ratings:

  1. Planning and preparation
  2. Training and capabilities
  3. Assess onsite conditions
  4. Set up work area
  5. Temporary Traffic Control (TMP)
  6. Delivery of materials and equipment
  7. General precautions
  8. Setting up
  9. Installation of framing
  10. Installation of panels
  11. Air-conditioning and lighting
  12. On completion

The Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement Includes


Risk Assessment Matrix | Hierarchy of Controls | PPE | Emergency Response

Your Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement is ready to be used in three easy steps:

  1. Add your company logo and details to the SWMS Template.
  2. Identify site specific risks.
  3. Address any site specific risks and add them to your SWMS Template.

Your SWMS is now read to use, and may also be used as training materials for work related activities such as Workplace Inductions or WHS-OHS Toolbox Meeting Talks.

Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement

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View a Safe Work Method Statement Example

See an example of a Safe Work Method Statement Template below. All our SWMS Template documents are comprehensive in nature, easy to use, and are a huge time saver. Our Safe Work Method Statement Templates are quick and easy to customise to your specific business or operation and are perfectly suited for every day use, for larger contracts and tenders right through to qualifying for contractor management platforms such as CM3.

What is a Safe Work Method Statement?

A SWMS is a document that outlines the high-risk construction work activities that will be performed at a workplace, the hazards that will be present as a result of these activities, and the controls that will be implemented to mitigate the risks.

A single SWMS can be utilised for numerous high-risk construction work activities, such as employing powered mobile plant, working at heights of more than 2 metres, and working near to a road that is used by traffic other than pedestrians.

A SWMS is an administrative control that is used to support higher-order controls, such as engineering controls, that are designed to remove or reduce hazards to health and safety.

A SWMS differs from other documentation such as a Job Safety Analysis or a Safe Operating Procedure in that it focuses on specific jobs or processes. A SWMS isn't meant to be a procedure; rather, it's a tool for supervisors and workers to check and monitor the workplace control measures. For high-risk work activities, a PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking)  must prepare a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) or check that one has been prepared before starting work. It is important to note that before any work process has started, a SWMS must be prepared.

A PCBU, on the other hand, also must manage health and safety hazards by eliminating or reducing them as much as possible. Before beginning any work on a project, the principal contractor must also obtain a copy of the SWMS.

What information does a Safe Work Method Statement need to contain?

A Safe Work Method Statement should identify high-risk work and any specify hazards related to high-risk construction work as well as any health and safety risks. The SWMS should describe the risk-control measures to be implemented, monitored, and reviewed and also should describe how the risk-control measures will be effective at reducing or eliminating the risk, and how they will be implemented, monitored, and reviewed.

A Safe Work Method Statement should be concise and focus on outlining the specific risks identified for the high-risk work to be performed, as well as the control measures to be implemented to ensure that the work is completed safely.

A long and overly complex Safe Work Method Statement which could be difficult to comprehend, implement and monitor or review may be confusing for workers to mentally digest and therefore is not ideal in helping to reduce or eliminate risks in the workplace. It is imperative that workers, and especially those who do not speak English, are able to understand the Safe Work Method Statement. Consider having pictures or diagrams added to the SWMS as a more effective way of presenting information contained within the SWMS.

The SWMS should also contain other regulatory requirements to protect health and safety of all personnel, such as controlling noise exposure and manual job risks. Also, keep in mind that evidence of a completed risk assessment may be required by the regulator or for auditing reasons if the Safe Work Method Statement is based on a workplace-specific risk assessment.

Who's Responsible for creating the Safe Work Method Statement?

In collaboration with workers who will be directly engaged in the activity, the person responsible for carrying out the work is usually best equipped to prepare the SWMS document. In most cases, this means that a Safe Work Method Statement is created by the builder for his or her employees, or by the subcontractor for their employees.

To establish who is in the best position to prepare the Safe Work Method Statement, the principle contractor, builder, and/or subcontractors should decide who will take responsibility for the SWMS.

It's also a requirement that all managers, contractors, supervisors, and workers be involved in the creation of a Safe Work Method Statement. Workers must be consulted so that they understand the SWMS in depth and what they must do to establish and maintain risks and implement control measures to manage the risk. Sharing information and utilising workers' knowledge and experience may also aid in ensuring that the task is completed in accordance with the SWMS.

If your workplace has a Health and Safety Representative, they should also be contacted while creating a Safe Work Method Statement.

What does the principal contractor's responsibility entail?

Before beginning work, a principal contractor must take all reasonable steps to obtain a SWMS from any contractor performing high-risk work. If no SWMS exists, the principal contractor must arrange for one to be created, for example by the contractor or subcontractor.

A general contractor should establish plans to ensure that high-risk work is carried out safely and in compliance with the Safe Work Method Statement. This can be done by keeping an eye on how the SWMS is being implemented on the ground.

The principal contractors' WHS management plan must also include detailed arrangements for collecting, assessing, monitoring, and reviewing the SWMS, according to the WHS Regulations.

How to Write a Safe Work Method Statement 

If you're looking to write your own Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement, the first step is to create the document as a Safe Work Method Statement Template. This way, you can use the same SWMS Template and then adjust the document for each different suspended ceiling installation project as needed, making sure that your Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS Template addresses any site specific risks.

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own suspended ceiling installation SWMS.

There are some fundamental requirements and information which you may want to consider adding to your Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS such as:

  • Details of the person(s) responsible for making sure implementation, monitoring and compliance of the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS as well as any reviews and modifications.
  • Any information detailing safety meetings or toolbox talks in relation to suspended ceiling installation work, scheduled in accordance with legislative requirements to first identify any site hazards where the suspended ceiling installation work is being conducted, secondly, communicate the risks and hazards and then take steps to eliminate or control each hazard in relation to the suspended ceiling installation work being done.
  • Any changes added to the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS after an incident or a near miss.

Note: The Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS must be kept and be available for inspection at least until the suspended ceiling installation work is completed. Where the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMSis revised, all versions of the SWMS Template should be kept. If a notifiable incident occurs in relation to the Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement, the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS must be kept for a minimum of two years from the date of the incident.

Your Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work MethodStatement Template should list any high risk construction work, such as:

  • Does the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS involve a risk of a person falling more than 2 meters?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out on or near pressurised gas mains or piping?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out on a telecommunication tower?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out on or near chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines?
  • Does the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS involve demolition of an element of a structure that is load-bearing?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out on or near energised electrical installations or services?
  • Does the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS involve demolition of an element related to the physical integrity of a structure?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere?
  • Does the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS involve, or is likely to involve, disturbing asbestos?
  • Does the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS involve tilt-up or precast concrete?
  • Does the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS involve structural alteration or repair that requires temporary support to prevent collapse?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out on, in or adjacent to a road, railway, shipping lane or other traffic corridor?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out in or near a confined space?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out in an area of a workplace where there is any movement of powered mobile plant?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out in/near a shaft or trench deeper than 1.5m or tunnel involving use of explosives?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out in areas with artificial extremes of temperature?
  • Is the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS carried out in or near water or other liquid that involves a risk of drowning?
  • Does the suspended ceiling installation work outlined in the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS involve diving work? 

Your Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement should also identify any high-risk machinery or equipment in operation near the work site, such as:

Your Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS should also list any Personal Protective Equipment such as:

  • Foot Protection - Boots or closed in shoes
  • Hand Protection - Gloves
  • Head Protection - Hard hat or helmet
  • Hearing Protection - Ear plugs or ear muffs
  • Eye Protection - Safety glasses, goggles or face shields
  • Respiratory Protection - Face masks etc
  • Face Protection - Face shield, welding mask etc
  • High Visual Clothing
  • Protective Clothing - Overalls etc
  • Fall Protection - Safety harness, edge protection etc
  • Sun Protection - Sunscreen, hat etc
  • Hair and Jewellery Secured - Hair Net, etc 

The Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS must be reviewed continually to ensure it remains effective and relevant. The Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS must be reviewed (and revised if necessary) if relevant control measures in relation to suspended ceiling installation work are revised. The review process should be carried out in consultation with workers (including contractors and subcontractors) who may be affected by the Suspended Ceiling Installation and their health and safety representatives who represented that work group at the workplace.

When the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS has been revised, the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure:

  1. All persons involved in the suspended ceiling installation work are advised that a revision has been made and how they can access the revised Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS;
  2. Persons who will need to change a work procedure or system as a result of the review are advised of the changes in a way that will enable them to implement their duties consistently with the revised Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS; and,
  3. Workers that will be involved in the suspended ceiling installation work are provided with the relevant information and instruction that will assist them to understand and implement the revised Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS.

When preparing your Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS, here are some topics you might want to also include to ensure you have covered as many risks and hazards as possible.

Planning and Preparation When Working With and Around Suspended Ceiling Installation. 

When writing your Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS, establish any policies, procedures and systems for working with Suspended Ceiling Installation in consultation with the Principal Contractor and workers while being sure to establish:

  • Health and Safety guidelines for suspended ceiling installation work
  • Emergency plans and evacuation procedures for the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS
  • Worker inductions for Suspended Ceiling Installation
  • Toolbox talks (safety meetings) added to the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS
  • Outline details of supervision of the site and workers on the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS
  • Check all workers qualifications, permits and competencies for Suspended Ceiling Installation operations
  • Ensure the Suspended Ceiling Installation and any related equipment is functioning correctly
  • Hazard reporting procedures in place and added to the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS
  • Incident reporting procedures in place and added to the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS
  • Exclusion zones when conducting suspended ceiling installation work
  • Risk Assessment for TASK completed and noted on the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS
  • Electrical NO GO ZONES identified, discussed and documented.

Assessment of Site Conditions

Thoroughly assess the work site/area conditions when excavating and ensure that:

  1. A risk assessment of the suspended ceiling installation work is conducted
  2. Suitable access and adequate space to conduct suspended ceiling installation work safely
  3. Consult with all stakeholders on potential hazards and risks when conducting suspended ceiling installation work
  4. Consultation with all relevant workers and personnel for Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS details
  5. If conducting Suspended Ceiling Installation at night, ensure there is adequate lighting
  6. Check that the work environment is suitable for suspended ceiling installation work

Suspended Ceiling Installation Training and Worker Qualifications

Ensure all workers have the appropriate licenses in conducting Suspended Ceiling Installation as well as any qualifications that may be required for various suspended ceiling installation projects before starting work. If White Cards are required, retain copies of all cards, licenses and qualifications of personnel.

All personnel must:

  1. Be trained and/or have received instructions on the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS including all safety and emergency procedures.
  2. Be qualified, knowledgeable and competent in Suspended Ceiling Installation operations and suspended ceiling installation work as well as all delegated tasks/responsibilities
  3. Be fully aware and understand the scope of work in relation to the Suspended Ceiling Installation SWMS 

Below are some examples of some Control Measures to be implemented when creating your own Suspended Ceiling Installation Safe Work Method Statement Template:

  • Secure the area where work is to be carried out use barricades for preventing unauthorised entry to floors, offices, etc.
  • No unauthorised entry should be allowed into work areas where there may be hazards affecting others.
  • Test all electrical equipment used on building construction or maintenance work and fit them with a current test tag.
  • Always use a safety switch or RCD protection necessarily with all electrical equipment never use unsafe equipment.
  • Be careful when moving and erecting ladders and access equipment preferably, obtain assistance with long, heavy or awkward loads.
  • Use mechanical aids to move bundles or quantities of tiles or panels.
  • Edge protect work platforms to prevent workers falling - fall protection is necessary and must be provided.
  • Use platform ladders for other than access or simple tasks that do not require the use of both hands simultaneously use step ladders for access, inspection or adjustments.
  • Wear suitable hearing protectors when drilling holes in concrete ceilings or walls and when cutting metal sections wearing hearing protection is necessary in noise areas and all persons must be wearing them.
  • Respiratory protection such as P1 particulate dust mask is necessary and must be worn when drilling concrete in buildings.
  • Use brush and hole cleaning blower to remove dust from drilled holes.
  • Use shield or foam over nozzle if using compressed air to clean holes.
  • Avoid skin and eyes touching resin in chemical anchors wearing eye and hand protection is necessary.
  • Avoid inhalation of vapours when using chemical anchors use gas filter mask or respirator in areas where vapours can aggregate.
  • Always follow installation guide to fit bolts; use retaining collar to hold chemsets and wear suitable gloves to prevent skin contact when cleaning up spills, etc.
  • Avoid breathing dust when cutting mineral based or fibre ceiling tiles - wearing P1 particulate dust mask is necessary.
  • Wear suitable gloves to protect hands from sharp cut edges and to protect surface finish of panels being placed in ceiling frame wearing eye and hand protection is necessary where swarf or sharp edges are present.
  • Make sure that lighting circuits are isolated when removing light fittings always check that fittings are electrically safe before removing.
  • Isolate wiring and keep them away from metal frames in new installations.
  • Avoid touching insulation batts and cut edges of ducting, etc. wearing eye and hand protection is necessary.
  • Obtain assistance when fitting large, heavy or awkward fittings ensure proper lifting procedures are followed.

National: View the Model Codes of Practice for Excavation Work on Safe Work Australia's website here.
Victoria: Victoria's Code of Practice for Excavation Work may be viewed on Work Safe Victoria's website here.