Safe Work Method Statement
Split System Air-Conditioning Unit Installation
VSQ Group · ABN 12 345 678 901
Doc No.
SWMS-0002
Version
1.0
Status
Draft
Issue date
20 Jun 2026
Company details
Company name
VSQ Group
ABN
12 345 678 901
Phone
0400 000 000
Email
info@example.com.au
Business address
Unit 2, 1–3 Evans Street, Freshwater NSW 2096
SWMS details
SWMS No.
SWMS-0002
Version
1.0
Issue date
20 June 2026
Review date
21 June 2026
Prepared by
VSQ Group
Approved by
Tony Vella
Project information
Project name
Castle Towers
Site name
Client
ABC Construction
Principal contractor
ABC Construction
Site address
Project manager
Tony Vella
Site supervisor
Mick Jones
Risk assessment matrix
Likelihoodvs Consequence → Insignificant
(1)
Minor
(2)
Moderate
(3)
Major
(4)
Catastrophic
(5)
Almost Certain (5) Medium 5High 10Extreme 15Extreme 20Extreme 25
Likely (4) Medium 4Medium 8High 12Extreme 16Extreme 20
Possible (3) Low 3Medium 6High 9High 12Extreme 15
Unlikely (2) Low 2Low 4Medium 6High 8High 10
Rare (1) Low 1Low 2Low 3Medium 4High 5
ExtremeDo not proceed — eliminate or substitute the risk.
HighReview before commencing; additional controls required.
MediumMaintain control measures and monitor.
LowRecord and monitor; manage by routine procedures.
Scope of work

Installation of a split system air-conditioning unit, including mounting the indoor and outdoor units, connecting refrigerant lines, and making electrical connections.

High risk construction work
No High Risk Construction Work categories selected for this task. Review against WHS Regulation 2017 cl. 291 before work commences and update if site conditions change.
Controls — PPE, plant, permits & references
PPE required
Safety bootsHi-vis clothingHard hat Safety glassesGlovesRespiratory protection (P2)
Plant & equipment
LaddersPower toolsHand toolsTest equipment
Permits / competencies
Electrical isolation / LOTOWorking at heights
Codes & legislation
WHS Act 2011WHS Regulation 2017Construction Work COPHow to Manage WHS Risks COP
Hierarchy of controls
Most effective
Least effective
EliminationRemove the hazard
SubstitutionReplace the hazard
IsolationSeparate people
EngineeringEngineering controls
AdministrativeProcedures & training
PPEProtective equipment
Job activities, hazards & controls
Task / step Hazards Initial Control measures Residual Responsible
Site setup and preparation
  • Slips, trips and falls
  • Public / other trades in work area
High
  • Establish exclusion zones and signage
  • Keep walkways clear
  • Site induction completed before commencing
Low Site Supervisor
Accessing installation area
  • Fall from height
  • Falling objects / tools
Extreme
  • Use ladders or EWP with edge protection where practicable
  • Inspect ladders before use; maintain 3 points of contact
  • Establish exclusion zone below
High Technician
Mounting indoor and outdoor units
  • Manual handling of units
  • Lacerations from sharp edges
Extreme
  • Use mechanical hoist or assist device for heavy units
  • Wear cut-resistant gloves
  • Team lift heavy or awkward items
Medium Technician
Connecting refrigerant lines
  • Refrigerant burns / asphyxiation
  • Pressurised systems
High
  • Licensed (ARC) technician to perform connections
  • Recover refrigerant and leak test before opening systems
  • Ventilate area during work
Medium Technician
Electrical connections
  • Electric shock
  • Arc flash
Extreme
  • Isolate and prove dead (LOTO)
  • Licensed electrician to perform connections
  • Use rated tools and PPE
High Electrician
Testing and commissioning
  • Electrical hazards
  • Environmental release
High
  • Ensure all connections are secure before testing
  • Monitor for refrigerant leaks during operation
  • Follow environmental protocols for refrigerant handling
Medium Technician
Emergency procedures & first aid
Emergency
In case of an emergency, evacuate the area and contact emergency services. Ensure all workers are accounted for and follow the site emergency plan.
First aid
First aid kit available on site. A trained first aid officer is to be present during the work.
Worker sign-on register

All workers must read, understand and sign this SWMS before commencing work.

NameCompany / roleSignatureDate