This 12-page Retaining Wall Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides the typical safety controls and possible hazards associated with constructing retaining walls, including excavation, brick and block laying, backfilling, and site preparation.
 
Created by WHS experts, this pre-filled and fully editable SWMS helps you meet your legal obligations and maintain compliance with Australian WHS legislation. Suitable for all states and territories, it’s designed for builders, landscapers, and contractors who need to manage site safety effectively.
 
Simply add your company name, logo, and site-specific details, and you’re ready to go.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is ideal for:
Builders and construction companies
Landscaping and gardening contractors
Bricklayers and masonry specialists
Civil works and excavation contractors
Property developers and project managers
Residential and commercial retaining wall installers
 
What This SWMS Covers
This SWMS provides detailed step-by-step guidance for safely managing retaining wall construction, including:
Planning and Site Preparation
Reviewing site safety plans and emergency procedures
Implementing traffic management controls and warning signage
Ensuring site inductions and staff competency checks
Excavation and Trenching
Safe use of excavators, mini-loaders, and lifting equipment
Managing risks of trench collapse and falling hazards
Establishing exclusion zones during excavation and backfilling
Handling and Positioning Materials
Manual handling controls to prevent back and muscle strain
Safe lifting techniques and team lifting for heavy loads
Use of trolleys, wheelbarrows, and lifting aids
Cutting Bricks, Blocks, and Materials
Using electric brick/block saws and angle grinders safely
Wet cutting and dust suppression methods to reduce silica risks
PPE requirements, including respirators, eye protection, and hearing protection
Laying Bricks and Blocks
Correct tool selection and safe wall assembly procedures
Temporary bracing for walls over 1m until mortar cures
Inspections and approval by a competent person before removing supports
Backfilling Behind Retaining Walls
Safe backfilling procedures to prevent wall collapse
Exclusion zones enforced until wall bracing is certified
Structural engineer sign-off prior to full backfilling
Working Around Other Trades and Traffic
Toolbox talks and hazard communication with other contractors
Controls for operating in traffic corridors and around mobile plant
Environmental and Weather Management
Ceasing operations during heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, or extreme heat
Site inspections after adverse weather events
Sun safety measures, hydration, and fatigue management
Emergency Response
First aid protocols and location of AEDs, spill kits, and muster points
Incident reporting, notifications, and regulator requirements
 
What’s Included in Your Template
Risk assessment guidelines and risk rating calculator
Step-by-step safety procedures and control measures
Comprehensive list of potential hazards and required controls
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements
Plant and equipment checklist
Relevant legislation, codes of practice, and standards
HRCW selection table
Worker sign-off page for compliance records
 
 
This Retaining Wall SWMS template is an essential tool for documenting and managing your WHS processes. Fully editable and designed for quick customisation, it saves time while helping you maintain compliance and protect your workforce.
 
Perfect for tenders, safety audits, and day-to-day operations, this SWMS helps ensure your business stays safe, organised, and compliant.
 
Get your Retaining Wall SWMS today and start using it instantly!