Download the Safe Work Method Statement

What is a Safe Work Method Statement?

A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a document that outlines the steps required to safely complete a specific task or activity. It includes a comprehensive assessment of the associated risks and details the control measures necessary to mitigate those risks. The SWMS serves as a vital tool for communicating safety procedures, ensuring consistent work practices, and promoting a proactive approach to workplace safety.

When to use the Safe Work Method Statement Template?

Whilst the template covers only a basic SWMS, it should be used various situations including: 

1. High-Risk Activities: When performing high-risk activities or tasks that have the potential for significant harm or injury, such as working at heights, operating heavy machinery, or handling hazardous substances.

2. New or Unfamiliar Tasks: Before commencing new or unfamiliar tasks or activities, where there may be uncertainties regarding potential hazards and appropriate control measures.

3. Legal Compliance: To fulfill legal requirements and ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations, where the use of SWMS is mandated.

4. Contractual Obligations: When contractually obligated to provide a SWMS as part of project requirements or when working on client sites that require a SWMS for specific activities.

How to use the Safe Work Method Statement? 

1. Download the SWMS Template: Click the provided link to download our SWMS template in your preferred format (e.g., PDF, Word document).

2. Customise for Your Task: Review the SWMS template and customise it to suit the specific task or activity you are planning. Add details such as task description, identified hazards, control measures, and emergency procedures.

3. Identify Hazards: Conduct a thorough hazard identification process for the task or activity. Consider potential risks, such as physical hazards, environmental factors, human factors, and any task-specific risks.

4. Assess Risks: Evaluate the likelihood and severity of each identified hazard and assess the associated risks. Consider the effectiveness of existing control measures and determine additional measures required to reduce the risks.

5. Develop Control Measures: Develop a set of control measures that will effectively eliminate or minimise the identified risks. This may include engineering controls, administrative controls, personal protective equipment (PPE), and training requirements.

6. Communicate and Implement: Share the SWMS with all relevant workers, supervisors, and stakeholders involved in the task or activity. Ensure that everyone understands the identified hazards, risks, and control measures. Implement the documented control measures during the execution of the task.

7. Monitor and Review: Regularly review the effectiveness of the SWMS and its control measures. Make adjustments as necessary to address changing conditions, new hazards, or lessons learned from incidents or near-miss events.