Safe Work Method Statements 

At BKW we are familiar with the safety processes that come with all jobs, big or small, and what is expected of us across the board. One of the main documents required from us is a Safe Work Method Statement. Here is some helpful information about a SWMS that you might like to read through!

A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a document designed for planning high risk work. The documents outline the hazards, risks and safety controls specific to each job, and are to be made available for all persons on the job site. This ensures that all workers are aware of the hazards and risks relevant to their job, which can eliminate or minimise risks to workers health and safety.

A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) is required to have a SWMS prepared for high risk construction work before that work commences.

The SWMS must include the following essential elements:

1. Identification of High-Risk Work: Clearly define any high-risk construction activities (e.g., work that involves the risk of falling from heights greater than two metres).
2. Hazard and Risk Specification: Outline specific hazards (e.g., working on a roof) along with their associated risks (e.g., the possibility of falling).
3. Control Measures Description: Detail the measures that will be put in place to mitigate these risks (e.g., installing roof rails).
4. Implementation, Monitoring, and Review: Describe the process for implementing and overseeing these control measures, including who will be responsible for installing and inspecting the roof rails, the sequence of tasks, safe access procedures, communication strategies, site induction for workers on the roof, supervision methods, regular checks of the rails, and assessments for additional controls (e.g., adding skylight covers if work extends into areas with skylights).
5. Clarity for Users: Ensure that the document is easy to understand for everyone who will be using it.

It is important to consider the conditions of the job site, like the site access, any power lines (look up and live), any services running underground (dial before you dig), who will be working on site at the same time, etc.