Removal of Stairs Between Levels SWMS

Product Description

Removing stairs between building levels is a high-risk demolition activity that requires careful planning, temporary structural support and controlled lifting methods to protect workers and surrounding areas. Removal of Stairs Between Levels SWMS is intended for Australian demolition and construction businesses undertaking stair removal as part of refurbishment, strip-out or structural alteration projects. It helps businesses safely plan, manage and document the work while supporting compliance with Australian WHS requirements.

The SWMS follows the documented sequence of preparing the stair structure, securing the stairs prior to cutting, controlled cutting using a plasma cutter, lowering the stair assembly with block and tackle, maintaining exclusion zones and completing the work safely. The document also incorporates emergency response procedures, consultation requirements and site-specific review before work commences.

Working between multiple levels introduces significant risks including falling objects, live edges and temporary structural instability. This SWMS supports consistent work planning by documenting practical control measures that can be reviewed and adapted to suit individual projects, building layouts and site conditions.

Activities Covered

• Pre-start planning and SWMS review
• Preparing stairs for removal
• Temporary support of stair structure
• Establishing exclusion zones
• Cutting stairs free using a plasma cutter
• Lowering stairs using block and tackle
• Managing live edges and fall prevention
• Site clean-up
• Emergency response and incident management

Hazards Addressed

• Falling objects
• Falls from height
• Temporary structural instability
• Operation of plasma cutting equipment
• Manual handling
• Public access to demolition areas
• Electrical hazards during emergencies
• Fire and explosion risks where applicable

Control Measures Included

The documented controls may include:

• Temporary propping of stairs before cutting
• Exclusion zones and warning signage
• Gantry and block-and-tackle lifting arrangements
• Spotter where required
• Temporary fencing where glazing or balustrades are removed
• Positive communication between workers during lowering operations
• Manufacturer’s operating procedures for the plasma cutter
• Ongoing supervision and site inductions

These controls should be reviewed and amended where required to suit the specific worksite and demolition method.

PPE Requirements

The source document identifies PPE that may include:

• Hard hat
• High-visibility clothing
• Safety footwear

Additional PPE may be required depending on the selected work method and site-specific hazards.

Plant and Equipment

Plant and equipment may include:

• Plasma cutter
• Gantry
• Block and tackle
• Temporary props

Equipment selection should suit the documented work method and manufacturer’s recommendations.

Emergency Planning

The SWMS documents emergency procedures for:

• Medical emergencies
• Utility or service strikes
• Electric shock
• Fire or explosion
• Unplanned asbestos disturbance

Emergency procedures should always align with site-specific emergency arrangements.

Legislative References

The uploaded SWMS references:

• WHS Act 2011
• WHS Regulations 2017
• Environmental Protection legislation
• Managing the Risk of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice
• Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice
• Managing the Risk of Falls in the Workplace Code of Practice
• WHS Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination Code of Practice