Safety and Compliance at Dukes
The foundation of all projects
Safety is more than a priority at Dukes. It’s a core value that guides how we work and the choices we make on every commercial painting project. Our independently audited WHS management system gives clients and our team confidence that safety is embedded in our processes and meets all government and industry requirements.
Our approach goes beyond compliance. Systems and processes are reviewed regularly as the industry and technology evolve, supported by ongoing training. This keeps our team engaged and accountable, and builds client confidence in how projects are managed and delivered.
“At Dukes, safety isn’t just a priority — it’s part of how we work, every day.”
Our zero-compromise culture
Values have to come from the top. Our leadership sets clear expectations around safety and backs this up with the time and support teams need to do their jobs properly. From project managers to painters, all work is carried out in a way that protects people, property and the public.
But leading the way in safety is a shared responsibility. We encourage open communication and a culture where team members can speak up early, raise concerns and suggest better ways of doing things. Most incidents are preventable with a safety-first mindset. That begins in the project planning stage, by choosing the safest access and work methods, even when they are not the fastest or cheapest option.
Independently proven
Our WHS framework at Dukes isn’t developed in isolation. It’s independently audited by Compliance OHS to confirm we’re constantly meeting current industry and legislative requirements. This external oversight gives confidence that safety decisions are tested, consistent and not left to individual judgment.
Safety expectations don’t stand still, and neither do our projects. That’s why Compliance OHS remains actively involved beyond simple audits, helping us review and refine our approach as conditions change. Their involvement strengthens accountability across the business and supports clear decision-making from early planning through to delivery on site.
“Our independently audited WHS systems ensure compliance, consistency and peace of mind.”
Certified, compliant & qualified
Dukes meets the safety, licensing and insurance requirements expected across commercial, strata, education, aged care and retirement, and government projects. All certifications, training and compliance obligations are maintained so clients can engage us with confidence, knowing safety, access and risk are properly managed from the outset.
Our Credentials |
What it means for your project |
| CM3 certified contractor | Our safety systems, documentation and insurances are independently assessed against nationally recognised standards, supporting smoother prequalification and reduced client risk. |
| Externally audited WHS framework | Regular external audits confirm our safety approach remains current, robust and aligned with industry expectations as projects and regulations change. |
| Trained & licensed workforce | All personnel hold required construction inductions and task-specific certifications, including Working at Heights and High Risk Work licences where applicable. |
| Regulatory alignment | Works are delivered in line with WHS legislation, SafeWork NSW requirements and relevant codes of practice, supporting compliance across all project types. |
| Fully licensed & insured | Appropriate builders licensing, public liability and workers’ compensation cover are maintained to meet client and regulatory requirements. |
Proactive risk management and communication
Planning is the key to effective project delivery. Risks are identified early through site inspections and job-specific review, with Safe Work Method Statements prepared for higher-risk activities. On complex projects, access and staging are carefully considered in collaboration with clients and consultants before work begins.
Once we commence on site, we actively manage risks as conditions change, including when working in buildings that remain occupied. Specialist advice is available when unusual circumstances arise, and our supervisors conduct regular checks. We adhere to all rules and regulations, including those around PPE, access and equipment use.
Clear communication from start to finish keeps all stakeholders informed and reduces any disruption. By coordinating closely, we deliver well-managed, predictable and safe projects on time and on budget, every time.
Safety in high-risk environments
Commercial painting and remedial work often means operating at height, in live buildings and within complex or sensitive sites. Dukes has the experience, training and planning discipline to manage these environments carefully and professionally, including:
- Working at heights and with difficult access
Trained rope access technicians and experienced EWP operators allow works to be carried out on high-rise façades, confined areas and hard-to-reach locations, while protecting both the structure and surrounding areas. - Hazardous materials and sensitive sites
Extensive experience with lead paint and other hazardous materials, delivered in line with environmental and health requirements. This is critical in older buildings, heritage assets and facilities such as schools and hospitals. - Government, defence and high-compliance projects
Proven capability working within secure, highly regulated environments including courthouses and defence facilities, where access protocols, documentation and oversight are non-negotiable. - Heritage and public infrastructure
Careful planning balances the protection of heritage fabric with public access and operational needs, minimising disruption while maintaining strict control of risk.
Managing risk well supports smoother delivery, fewer interruptions and higher-quality outcomes. Safety is treated as part of doing the job properly, not an added layer or compromise.
“We foster a safety-first culture where people speak up, act early and prevent incidents.”
Some of our clients
Key Takeaways
Safety is embedded into every Dukes project from planning through delivery.
Our independently audited WHS systems ensure full compliance and confidence.
Risks are identified early and actively managed on every site.
We’re trusted to work safely in complex, high-risk and regulated environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make sure safety is built into every Dukes project, not just “ticked off”?
Safety is a core value at Dukes, and it shapes how we plan and deliver every job. We run an independently audited WHS management system so safety is embedded in our processes and aligned with government and industry requirements—not left to personal judgement.
How do you prove your WHS system is genuinely compliant and up to date?
Our WHS framework is independently audited by Compliance OHS, confirming we’re meeting current legislative and industry requirements. Their involvement goes beyond audits. They also help us refine and strengthen our approach as site conditions, expectations and regulations change.
How do you manage risk before work starts—and while the site is live?
We identify risks early through site inspections and job-specific reviews, and we prepare Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for higher-risk activities. On complex jobs, we plan access and staging with clients and consultants before we begin, then actively manage risks as conditions shift—especially in occupied buildings—supported by supervisor checks and specialist advice when needed.
Are you properly certified, licensed and insured for regulated sectors like government, education and aged care?
Yes. We maintain the safety, licensing, training and insurance requirements expected across commercial, strata, education, aged care/retirement living and government projects. This includes CM3 certification, an externally audited WHS framework, construction inductions and task-specific qualifications (e.g., Working at Heights and High Risk Work licences where required), plus appropriate builders licensing and insurances.
How do you work safely in high-risk environments like heights, hazardous materials and secure sites?
We plan and deliver work with the training, access methods and discipline needed for complex environments—like working at heights and difficult access, operating in live buildings, and handling hazardous materials (including lead paint) in line with health and environmental requirements. We also have proven capability in high-compliance settings (including government/defence-style controls) and heritage/public infrastructure where access, documentation and oversight are non-negotiable.
Recent projects
Recent projects
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