WorkSafe Queensland obligations for small builders

WHS obligations for principal contractors

Small builders must ensure compliance with safety regulations, so there are less injuries and deaths on building projects in Queensland. Good safety training and process also reduces incidents damaging property and equipment. All projects should include a site risk assessment and all workers should receive safety training specific to that site. 

Key obligations

In Queensland there’s a principal contractor is required based on project complexity and risk, rather than project value. Legal advice is recommended.

As a principal contractor, you must:

• Erect signs that give your contact details and the nature of the work being carried out
• For projects more than $350k prepare a written work health and safety (WHS) management plan before work begins, and make it available to workers
• For any high risk construction get a copy of the safe work method statement (SWMS) 

You must also manage risks to health and safety specifically associated with:

• Storing, moving and disposing materials and waste at the site
• Storing plant that isn’t in use
• Controlling traffic around the site
• Maintaining essential services

Relevant state act: Work Health and Safety Regulation 2021 (Qld)