Formwork

Formwork is the surface, supports and framing used to define the shape of concrete until the concrete is self-supporting: (see AS3610 Formwork for Concrete).

‘Formwork’ includes:
• the forms on which concrete is poured;
• the supports to withstand the loads imposed by the forms and concrete; and
• any bracing added to ensure stability.
Together these components make the formwork assembly. Hazards associated with work involving the erection, alteration and/or dismantling of formwork include:
• formwork collapse (before, during and after placement of concrete);
• falls from heights;
• slips and trips;
• falling objects ;
• noise;
• dust; and
• manual tasks.
To properly manage risks, a person must
• identify hazards; and
• assess risks that may result because of the hazards; and
• decide on control measures to prevent, or minimise the level of, the risks; and
• implement control measures; and
• monitor and review the effectiveness of the measures.
Control measures must be implemented in an order of priority and implemented before work commences. The following example illustrates the order of priority where there is a risk a person could fall.