Retaining Wall Construction (Timber/Block)
Construction of timber sleeper and concrete block retaining walls including excavation for posts, installation of drainage systems, and assembly of wall components for landscaping projects. Pre-filled hazards, controls, and risk ratings.
What's In Your SWMS
10 Hazards & Controls
Crushing injuries, suffocation, death from burial under collapsed material
Use mechanical excavation methods to minimise time workers are near open excavations
Establish exclusion zones around excavations. Keep workers and public away from excavation edges.
- Install shoring or trench shields for excavations deeper than 1.5m
- Batter or bench excavation walls to stable angle based on soil type
- Install temporary edge protection around excavations
- Conduct soil assessment before excavation to determine stability
- Monitor soil conditions - cease work if ground becomes unstable after rain
- No workers in excavation while plant is operating nearby
- Keep excavated material at least 1m from excavation edge
Hard hat worn when working in or near excavations
14-Step Work Procedure
Equipment & PPE
Equipment (12)
- Mini excavator or excavator
For bulk excavation and post hole digging. Operator must be licensed.
- Post hole auger (handheld or excavator mounted)
For drilling post holes in steel post retaining systems
- Circular saw
For cutting timber sleepers to length. Use appropriate blade for treated timber.
- Power drill / impact driver
For pre-drilling and fastening sleepers
PPE (8)
- Hard hatAS/NZS 1801
Required when working near mobile plant or overhead hazards
- Steel cap safety bootsAS/NZS 2210.3
Essential for protection from dropped materials and excavation work
- High-visibility vest or clothingAS/NZS 4602
Class D/N - Required when mobile plant is operating
- Safety glassesAS/NZS 1337
Required during all cutting, drilling, and grinding operations
Training & Emergency
Competency Requirements
- Construction Induction (White Card)training
Required for all workers on construction sites in NSW
- Excavator Operation (VOC or HRWL)licence
Required if operating excavator. HRWL for excavators over 3 tonnes tracking capacity.
- Power Tool Operation Trainingtraining
Training in safe use of circular saws, angle grinders, and drills
- Manual Handling Trainingtraining
Training in safe lifting techniques and hazardous manual task identification
- First Aid Certificate
At least one worker on site should hold current certificate (HLTAID011)
- Current Drivers Licence
Required if operating company vehicle or towing trailer
Emergency Procedures
EXCAVATION COLLAPSE: Do not enter collapsed excavation. Call 000 immediately. Attempt to communicate with buried worker. Do not use excavator to dig out - risk of further injury.
ELECTRICAL SERVICE STRIKE: Do not touch any metal objects or the struck service. Evacuate area immediately. Call 000 and electricity provider. Do not attempt to disconnect power.
GAS SERVICE STRIKE: Do not use any ignition sources. Evacuate area immediately upwind. Call 000 and gas provider. Do not attempt to repair.
- + 2 more included in your SWMS
Everything above, included in your SWMS document.
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High-Risk Construction Work Categories
Under Australian WHS Regulations (Section 291 - High Risk Construction Work), this work is classified as high-risk due to:
- Involves use of powered mobile plant (Excavator, mini excavator, or post hole auger for excavation and post hole digging)
- Work in/on trench deeper than 1.5m (May apply if post holes or drainage trenches exceed 1.5m depth - assess on site)
- Work on/near energised electrical installations (Potential for underground electrical services in excavation area)
- Work on/near pressurised gas mains or piping (Potential for underground gas services in excavation area)
Australian Standards Referenced
Who Needs This SWMS?
This template is designed for the following trades and roles performing retaining wall construction (timber/block) work.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a SWMS for retaining wall construction?
A SWMS is required when the work involves high-risk construction activities such as using powered mobile plant (excavators), excavating trenches deeper than 1.5m, or working near underground services. Most retaining wall construction involving excavators will require a SWMS.
Do I need council approval for a retaining wall in NSW?
In NSW, retaining walls under 600mm in height may be exempt development requiring no approval. Walls over 600mm typically require council approval or complying development certification. Walls over 1m usually require structural engineering design. Always check with your local council for specific requirements.
What is Before You Dig (BYDA) and do I need it?
Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) is a free national service that provides plans showing the location of underground utilities. It is mandatory in NSW to obtain BYDA plans before any excavation work. Call 1100 or visit byda.com.au at least 2 business days before excavation.
Is CCA treated timber safe to use for retaining walls?
CCA (copper chrome arsenate) treated timber is safe when handled correctly. Wear gloves and P2 masks when cutting, never burn offcuts, and wash hands before eating. CCA is approved for retaining walls but restricted from playground equipment and outdoor furniture with close human contact. ACQ treated timber is an arsenic-free alternative.
What PPE is required for retaining wall construction?
Essential PPE includes: steel cap boots (AS/NZS 2210.3), high-visibility clothing (AS/NZS 4602), safety glasses (AS/NZS 1337), work gloves (AS/NZS 2161), hard hat when mobile plant is operating (AS/NZS 1801), hearing protection for power tools (AS/NZS 1270), and P2 dust mask when cutting treated timber (AS/NZS 1716).
How deep can I excavate without shoring?
The need for shoring depends on soil type and conditions, not just depth. However, excavations deeper than 1.5m are classified as high-risk construction work and typically require shoring, benching, or battering to prevent collapse. Always assess soil stability and consult the Excavation Work Code of Practice.
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