Safe design of structures: Code of practice

Last updated: 27 November 2024

This Code provides practical guidance to persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) who design structures that will be used, or could reasonably be expected to be used, as a workplace. This includes architects, building designers and engineers.

This Code is also relevant for anyone making decisions that influence the design outcome, such as clients, developers and builders.

This Code applies to the design of ‘structures’ defined under the WHS Act to mean anything that is constructed, whether fixed or moveable, temporary or permanent, and includes:

  • buildings, masts, towers, framework, pipelines, roads, bridges, rail infrastructure and underground works (shafts or tunnels)
  • any component of a structure
  • part of a structure.

This Code does not apply to geotechnical structures as defined in the WHS Mines Regulations.