AS/NZS 4801 OHS20309
SAI Global
SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS)
June 2017
A SWMS must be completed for tasks that involve:
• working from height
• working with plant
• working with hazardous substances
• Working on or near live electricity
• Demolition
• Excavation
• Manual Handling
• Restricted Space i.e. tunnels
• All tasks that have inherent hazards or risks involved
Generic SWMS can be used for routine tasks but must be reviewed if there is a change to the process or
procedure.
SWMS
A SWMS is a site specific statement that must be prepared before any task is commenced. This is to
ensure that any hazards or risks identified are appropriately controlled minimized or eliminated that
would cause harm to the worker/s and others within the vicinity of the works.
TASKS
Identification of tasks at each stage of the project including preparation and clean up must be addressed.
HAZARD AND RISK CONTROL
Controlling the identified hazards & risks is the most important section that must be completed on the
form. The aim is to adopt the best control measure to either eliminate or minimize the risk at source.
Control levels:
1. Eliminate any risk to health or safety associated with construction work
2. Reduce the risk to health or safety by one or any combination of the following:
• Substituting a new activity, procedure, plant process or substance
• Using engineering controls, such as mechanical or electrical devices
• Isolating persons from the hazard, such as barricading, fencing or guard railing
3. Use administrative controls, such as changing the way the work is done, training & signage
4. Provide appropriate personal protective equipment
Safe Work Method Statement, v2 Responsible Officer: Manager, OH&S Page 1 of 2
Date of first issue: August 2004 Date of last review: June 2017 Date of next review: 2020
Safe Work Method Statement
Job description: .............................................................................................................................................................................................................
Person/s responsible Date: BEIMS No:
for undertaking works (if applicable)
Location description: Permit to work requirement: Yes No:
Building, Room No,
Grounds, area etc. Type of Permit
Excavation Confined Space Roof Access Hot Work
Area where works are to be undertaken has been notified
Yes N/A Permit Number:
Tasks What are the hazards & risks How will hazards & risks be controlled
Think about the worksite and each stage of the project, and how Against each task list the hazards that could cause injury when Describe & list the control measures and how they will be used to
the tasks are carried out. Include preparation & cleanup tasks the task is performed. eliminate or minimise the risk of injury arising from the identified
hazard.
SWMS sighted by Observe the work being carried out and
monitor the SWMS. Review risk controls regularly:
Safe Work Method Statement, v2 Responsible Officer: Manager, OH&S Page 2 of 2
Date of first issue: August 2004 Date of last review: June 2017 Date of next review: 2020
