Question: When performing high-risk work such as working on the roof, are contractors required to provide a safe work method statement? Are contractors also required to produce a Working at Heights licence?
Answer: Contractors performing high risk construction work are required to have a safe work method statement.
Yes. Contractors performing high risk construction work are required to have a safe work method statement.
Owners should ask the contractor to confirm in writing that they have the necessary licenses, insurance and expertise to perform the work. They should also ask the contractor to confirm they have the required safety management plan for their construction business and the accompanying safe work method statements and will carry out their works in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Act and Regulations. The licence they hold must be strictly relevant to the works they are carrying out.
Owners should not seek to “assess” the work method statement. The obligation is on the contractor to ensure the statement is fit for purpose. Any attempt by owners to “accept” a statement provided to them may be construed as acceptance of the document as compliant and shift responsibility for the compliance of the safe work method statement to the owners.
QIA Group E: info@qiagroup.com.au P: 1300 309 201