Introduction of National Standard for Construction Work

The residential construction industry is preparing for the introduction of the National Standard for Construction Work from the 1 October 2008 following the commencement in the civil/commercial sector in January of this year.

The standard will see new OH&S requirements covering the provision of information, consultation and planning and documenting construction projects. For builders and sub contractors there will be new requirements that need to be complied with in a number of areas.

The two key areas for HIA members will be:

• Firstly the need to produce Safe Work Method Statements, or SWMS for short, that cover a number of high risk construction activities, and
• Secondly under specific circumstances for full safety management plans to be utilised with contractors.

To help members understand the requirements information sessions of two hour duration are being planned and will provide members with information on the requirements and compliance steps that will need to be taken.

Further information can be found on the HIA Safety Services website and will also be provided to members through the E-news each week and if you are seeking specific information for your business please contact Andy Stowell of HIA Safety Services in the Perth office during business hours.