Safe work method statement (SWMS)  procedure

A typical approach to developing a SWMS is to:

• assemble the relevant workers, their HSRs and supervisors; ideally at the location of proposed works – there is a legal duty to consult affected workers and their HSRs when identifying hazards or measures to control risk
• review the proposed works and consider any site specific factors with potential to impact the works
• ensure all proposed HRCW activities are identified and the hazards and risks are listed
• select the risk control measures and describe them alongside each of the hazards and risks that are listed.

When selecting risk control measures for HRCW, first seek to eliminate that risk so far as is reasonably practicable (e.g. having overhead powerlines de-energised).

If a risk cannot be eliminated, it must be reduced so far as is reasonably practicable, by utilising the hierarchy of controls, and implementing one (or a combination) of the following:

• implementing any hazard-specific controls required by law
• substituting with a lower risk activity, procedure, plant, process or substance (e.g. using scaffold in preference to ladders)
• isolating persons from the hazard (e.g. fence off areas for mobile plant operation)
• using engineering controls (e.g. trench shields, guard rails, mechanical ventilation).

This process should be used to control any risks that are not covered by specific duties in other parts of the WHS Regulations. For how to control risks arising from hazards such as manual handling, noise, falls, confined spaces, plant and machinery, hazardous substances, asbestos and lead, see those sections of the WHS Regulations.

If after implementation of the above controls so far as is reasonably practicable, a risk to health or safety still remains, reduce that risk, so far as is reasonably practicable, by using administrative controls (e.g. safety training, work instructions, warning signs, supervision).

If after implementation of administrative controls so far as is reasonably practicable, a risk to health or safety still remains, reduce that risk, so far as is reasonably practicable, by providing personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g. hearing protection, high visibility clothing, respiratory protection) or a combination of appropriate PPE.

It is not acceptable to use a generic SWMS unless it is altered to make it site-specific. This can be done by reviewing and revising it as necessary regarding its suitability for the specific environment and circumstances in which the HRCW will be performed.

High risk construction work must be carried out in accordance with the SWMS.

If work is not being carried out in accordance with the SWMS then it must stop immediately or as soon as it is safe to do so. In these cases the SWMS should be reviewed and if necessary revised to reflect the safest way to carry out the work that is reasonably practicable. Work must not resume until the work can be carried out in accordance with the SWMS.

A PCBU must also ensure a SWMS is reviewed and revised if the measures put in place to control risks to health and safety are revised.

A copy of the SWMS must be retained for the duration of the HRCW.

The SWMS should be kept available at the location of the HRCW, where it can be readily referenced by affected persons, or reviewed and revised as necessary.

SWMS may be stored in an electronic format (e.g. on a smartphone) so the persons doing the work have ready access to the document for reference.

Use the SWMS self-assessment tool to ensure your Safe Work Method Statement for high risk construction work complies with the legislation. The list is similar to that used by SafeWork SA inspectors when they check SWMS compliance.

Speak with your manager/supervisor if you need access to this tool .

Managers and Supervisors are responsible for;

• Ensuring workers and HSRs are consulted in the preparation of SWMS
• Making sure SWMS can be understood by workers, including those from non-English speaking backgrounds
• Keeping SWMS available at the location of the HRCW, where it can be readily referenced by affected persons, or reviewed and revised as necessary
• Stopping work, if the work is not being carried out in accordance with the SWMS

Workers are responsible for:

• Performing work in accordance with SWMS
• Reporting If the work is not being carried out in accordance with the SWMS