Removal of Stairs Using a Gantry SWMS

Product Description

Removing structural staircases using a gantry system requires careful planning to safely manage temporary structural support, falling objects, working at height and controlled lowering operations. The Removal of Stairs Using a Gantry SWMS is intended for demolition contractors, structural demolition specialists and principal contractors undertaking the dismantling and removal of steel staircases on Australian construction and refurbishment projects. It helps construction businesses safely plan, manage and document staircase removal activities while supporting site-specific risk management and compliance with Australian WHS requirements.

Stair removal often forms part of structural alterations, refurbishment and demolition projects where existing access structures must be dismantled without compromising surrounding building elements. These activities require coordinated lifting operations, engineered temporary support, exclusion zones and effective communication between workers to minimise risks associated with suspended loads and falling materials.

This SWMS follows the documented work sequence from preparing the staircase for removal through to dismantling stair treads, cutting and lowering stringers, removing steel from site and completing final housekeeping. It provides a practical framework that can be reviewed and customised to suit individual projects, structural requirements and workplace conditions.

Activities Covered

• Preparing the staircase for removal.
• Establishing exclusion zones.
• Installing temporary edge protection where required.
• Installing Acrow props to support the staircase.
• Removing stair treads from stringers.
• Cutting steel stringers into manageable sections.
• Installing and operating a portable gantry.
• Lowering stringer sections using the gantry.
• Loading removed steel for transport.
• Housekeeping and site clean-up.

Hazards Addressed

The documented work activity addresses hazards that may include:

• Falling objects.
• Falls from height.
• Temporary structural instability.
• Suspended loads.
• Manual handling injuries.
• Sprains and strains.
• Crush injuries.
• Silica dust generated during clean-up.
• Cuts and abrasions.
• Psychosocial hazards associated with work demands and workplace conditions.

Control Measures Included

Depending on the selected work method and project requirements, the SWMS outlines controls such as:

• Establishing exclusion zones beneath the work area.
• Restricting access to authorised personnel only.
• Temporary edge protection around stair openings.
• Installing Acrow props before removing stair treads.
• Removing stair treads progressively from the lower level upward.
• Cutting stringers into manageable lengths before lowering.
• Using a gantry system to lower structural members.
• Maintaining positive communication between gantry operators.
• Using forklifts for loading removed steel where applicable.
• Dust suppression during housekeeping activities.
• Wearing appropriate respiratory protection during clean-up.

PPE Requirements

The source document specifies PPE including:

• Hard hat.
• High-visibility clothing.
• Safety footwear.
• Hearing protection.
• Dust mask.

Additional PPE may be required depending on the demolition method, cutting activities and site-specific hazards.

Plant and Equipment

Plant and equipment may include:

• Portable gantry.
• Acrow props.
• Forklift.
• Cutting equipment.
• Material handling equipment.

Hazardous Chemicals

Where applicable, the work may involve:

• Oxy-acetylene equipment for steel cutting.

Additional hazardous substances should be managed in accordance with Safety Data Sheets and project-specific procedures where applicable.

Emergency Planning

The SWMS includes emergency response procedures covering medical emergencies, utility strikes, electric shock, fire, explosion and the unexpected disturbance of asbestos-containing materials, together with reporting and communication requirements.

What’s Included

This editable Microsoft Word SWMS may include:

• Sequential work activities.
• Hazard identification and risk controls.
• PPE requirements.
• Plant and equipment guidance.
• Emergency response procedures.
• Worker responsibilities.
• Legislative references.
• Consultation and worker sign-off records.

Who This SWMS Is For

Suitable for:

• Demolition contractors.
• Structural demolition contractors.
• Construction businesses undertaking structural alterations.
• Principal contractors.
• Workers removing steel staircases using portable gantry systems.

Australian WHS Requirements

The source document references applicable Australian WHS legislation together with Codes of Practice relating to managing the risk of plant in the workplace, hazardous manual tasks, managing the risk of falls and WHS consultation, cooperation and coordination. Every SWMS should be reviewed and customised to reflect the specific workplace, structural conditions, lifting equipment and demolition methodology before work commences.

Why Choose Tradies Compliance?

Tradies Compliance SWMS documents are developed to help construction businesses implement practical, professional safety documentation for high-risk structural demolition activities. Delivered in an editable Microsoft Word format, they can be customised to suit individual projects while supporting consistent planning, supervision and safe work practices throughout staircase removal operations.