Spire Safety
    Safe Work Method Statements

    Safe Work Method Statement (Mobile Crane Operation) Template

    Download your free Safe Work Method Statement (Mobile Crane Operation) template. A structured starting point for managing WHS risks. Get started now!

    July 9, 20263 min read51 viewsLast reviewed July 2026Licensing terms (PDF)

    Safe Work Method Statement (Mobile Crane Operation) Template

    DOCX • 165 KB + PDF

    Updated Sep 2026

    No signup required

    Safe Work Method Statement (Mobile Crane Operation) Template — document preview

    Purpose of the Safe Work Method Statement (Mobile Crane Operation) Template

    Our free Safe Work Method Statement (Mobile Crane Operation) Template is designed to provide Australian businesses with a structured starting point for identifying hazards and controlling risks associated with mobile crane operations. Mobile crane work is considered high-risk construction work (HRCW) under WHS regulations, necessitating a robust SWMS.

    This template assists in documenting the step-by-step process of mobile crane use, from pre-operational checks to shutdown procedures, ensuring critical safety measures are clearly articulated. It helps organisations meet their duty to develop and implement safe work procedures, fostering a safer working environment and demonstrating a commitment to WHS management systems.

    Video walkthrough

    How to use the Safe Work Method Statement (Mobile Crane Operation) Template

    To effectively use this Safe Work Method Statement (Mobile Crane Operation) Template, download the DOCX version and begin by thoroughly reviewing each section. This document is a guide, not a final solution, and must be customised to your specific workplace, equipment, and task requirements.

    The template prompts you to detail specific hazards inherent in your mobile crane operations and to outline the control measures you will implement. This includes specifying required permits, required plant and equipment, qualifications of operators, and emergency procedures.

    Ensure all workers involved in mobile crane operations are consulted during its development and fully understand its contents before commencing work. Regular reviews and updates are crucial to maintain its relevance and effectiveness, especially if work procedures or conditions change.

    When to use it

    A Safe Work Method Statement for mobile crane operation must be prepared before any high-risk construction work involving mobile cranes commences. This applies to all workplaces where mobile cranes are used, regardless of the project size or duration.

    It's particularly important for new projects, changes in work scope, or when new equipment or personnel are introduced. It should also be reviewed and updated periodically, or immediately following an incident or near-miss.

    Who should use it

    This template is primarily for persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) who engage in or oversee mobile crane operations. This includes construction companies, project managers, site supervisors, and WHS officers responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring safe work procedures.

    Mobile crane operators and dogmen should also be familiar with the document, as it outlines their specific responsibilities and required work methods. It serves as a valuable tool for anyone needing to establish clear and safe protocols for high-risk mobile crane activities.

    Common mistakes

    Common mistakes to avoid

    • Not customising the template to specific site conditions and plant.
    • Failing to review and update the SWMS when work procedures or conditions change.
    • Not consulting workers about the SWMS during its development or before work commences.
    • Treating the SWMS as a 'tick-box' exercise rather than a working safety document.

    Legal references

    Legal considerations

    The following legal requirements may be relevant to this type of work.

    • WHS Act (s19)Primary Duty of Care
    • WHS Act (s47)Worker Consultation
    • WHS Regulations (s34)Identification of Hazards
    • WHS Regulations (s35)Management of Risks to Health and Safety
    • WHS Regulations (s37)Maintenance of Control Measures
    • WHS Regulations (s38)Review of Control Measures
    • WHS Regulations (s39)Information, Training and Instruction
    • WHS Regulations (s55C–55D)Psychosocial Risks and Controls
    • WHS Regulations (s57)Hearing Risk Management
    • WHS Regulations (s203)Management of Plant Risks
    • WHS Regulations (s297)Construction Work
    • WHS Regulations (s299)Safe Work Method Statements
    • WHS Regulations (s44–45)Provision and Use of PPE

    The following codes may be relevant to this type of work.

    • Code of PracticePsychosocial Hazards
    • Code of PracticePlant in the Workplace
    • Code of PracticeConstruction Work

    Did you know

    Crane Licences

    In Australia, operating a mobile crane requires a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) with the appropriate class (e.g., C2, C6, C1, CM) to ensure operators have the necessary skills and knowledge.

    Major Incident Risk

    Mobile crane incidents are a leading cause of fatalities and serious injuries in construction, often due to overturns, structural failures, or contact with power lines. Robust SWMS help mitigate these critical risks.

    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions

    01What is high-risk construction work?
    High-risk construction work (HRCW) is defined in WHS regulations and includes activities like work involving mobile cranes, work at heights, or work near energised electrical installations, among others. These activities have a greater risk of serious injury or death, necessitating specific WHS controls like an SWMS.
    02Does this template guarantee WHS compliance?
    No. This template is a structured starting point aligned with Australian WHS practice. It provides a framework for managing risks, but actual compliance depends on how you customise, implement, and maintain the SWMS specific to your workplace, tasks, and plant.
    03Can I use this SWMS for other plant operations?
    This template is specifically designed for mobile crane operations. While the general structure of an SWMS remains consistent, the hazards and controls for other plant will differ significantly. It's recommended to use a specific template or develop a new SWMS tailored to each type of plant or high-risk activity.
    04What is the difference between a SWMS and a Job Safety Analysis (JSA)?
    A SWMS is a document identifying high-risk construction work, hazards, and control measures, specifically required for HRCW under WHS regulations. A JSA is a broader tool used for analysing hazards and controls for any job, not exclusively HRCW, and may not be as detailed or legally mandated in the same way.

    Share this resource

    How To Use It

    1. 1Download and open in Word or PDF.
    2. 2Replace the placeholders with your business details.
    3. 3Get it reviewed by a WHS specialist before rollout.
    Get a document review

    Need it customised?

    Our WHS consultants can adapt this template to your site, run a gap analysis, or audit what you already have in place.

    Book a Free Consultation Explore Consultancy

    or call 1300 156 382