Free Safe Work Procedure Template (SWP)
Download our free Safe Work Procedure Template:
*For internal use only. Not for resale or redistribution. By downloading, you agree to our Free Resources Licensing Agreement.
Purpose of Document
Purpose of DocumentSafe Work Procedure templates are used to identify hazards, assess risks and outline controls for work activities within the workplace. The primary goal is to protect workers from injury or illness by providing a safe system of work. This form is broadly aligned with AS45001:2018.
How to Use
Complete the relevant sections of the form, including the site / location and other details as required. Add an overview of the work being conducted / task steps and what hazards and risks exist for these steps. Assess the risks using a risk matrix. Finally, list the controls and have workers read and sign-off that they understand and agree to comply with the Safe Work Procedure.
NOTE: This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that may need to be considered include, but are not limited to, ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
Safe Work Procedure should generally be completed prior to work commencing.
Who Should Use
This form can be completed by your workers, Safety Advisor, Project Manager or other competent person in your organisation. Workers must be consulted with during the development of a Safe Work Procedure.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to have documented Safe Work Procedures. However, they are best practice, especially for larger companies. They can help meet general legal duties including:
- s(19)(3)c WHS Act – Duty to Provide Safe Systems of Work
- s(39) WHS Regulations – Duty to Provide Information, Instruction and Training
FAQ
What is a SWP?
A Safe Work Procedure (SWP) is a set of step-by-step instructions that outline how a specific task or work activity should be carried out safely within a workplace.
What is the difference between a SWMS and a SWP?
In short, not much. Both documents outline the task steps, hazards and controls. Both documents are used to plan work safely. The main difference is that the contents of a SWMS is regulated under the WHS Regulations and legally a SWMS must be completed for high-risk construction work.
Article Sources and Further Reading
- Establishing policies and procedures (Work Health and Safety QLD) <https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/safety-and-prevention/creating-safe-work/establishing-policies-and-procedures>
- The Complete Guide to WHS Policies and Procedures in Australia (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/guide-to-whs-policies-and-procedures/>