Understanding Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)

What Is a SWMS?

A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a document that sets out the high risk construction work activities to be carried out at a workplace, the hazards that arise from those activities, and the measures to be put in place to control the risks. It is a legal requirement under Australian WHS Regulations for certain types of construction work.

When Is a SWMS Required?

A SWMS is required for high risk construction work (HRCW) as defined in the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011. HRCW includes:

• Work involving a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres
• Work on telecommunications towers
• Demolition work
• Work involving asbestos disturbance
• Work near energised electrical installations
• Work in trenches or excavations deeper than 1.5 metres
• Work on or near roads or railways
• Work involving the use of explosives
• Work with a risk of drowning

What Must a SWMS Include?

Under the WHS Regulation, a SWMS must describe:

1. The high risk construction work being carried out
2. The hazards and risks arising from the work
3. The risk control measures that will be implemented
4. How the control measures will be put in place

Who Prepares a SWMS?

The person conducting the business or undertaking (PCBU) who is responsible for the high risk construction work must prepare the SWMS, or ensure it is prepared. In practice, this may be the principal contractor, subcontractor, or a specialist consultant.

Worker Consultation

Workers who are to carry out the work must be consulted in the preparation of the SWMS. Workers must also be provided with a copy of the SWMS before work commences and must acknowledge they have read and understood it.

Common SWMS Mistakes to Avoid

• Generic SWMS not tailored to the specific job and site conditions
• Controls that are aspirational rather than practical and implementable
• No worker consultation or acknowledgement records
• Controls that only list PPE without higher-order controls
• SWMS not reviewed when site conditions change

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