How to do your own work method statement

Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) – Click here for more resources, examples and templates

Work method statements are sometimes called Safe Operating Procedures or Job Safety Analysis forms depending on what state you are in. They fulfill a number of purposes.

• They outline a safe method of work for a specific job.
• They provide an induction document that workers must read and understand before starting the job.
• They assist in meeting legal responsibilities for the risk management process, hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control.
• They assist in effectively coordinating the work, the materials required, the time required and the people involved to achieve a safe and efficient outcome.
• They are a quality assurance tool.

SWMS must be prepared in consultation with those people who will be doing the job. This will give a more complete insight into the various steps involved in the job and the associated hazards. They will also encourage ownership and commitment to the safe working methods by those doing the job.

SWMS must be produced on the organisation’s letterhead or contain the organisations identification logo and address. Also included must be the signature of a senior management’s and the date the document was prepared.

SWMS must contain the following details: -
- A description of the work to be undertaken,
- The hazards associated with the work,
- The step by step sequence of completing the work,
- The potential hazards associated with each step of the work,
- The safety controls that will be used in controlling the hazards,
- Precautions that will be taken to protect health and safety,
- Identification of statutes, regulations and codes of practice that impact the work,
- The names and qualifications of people who will be undertaking the work,
- A description of training given to people doing the work,
- Identification of plant and equipment required on Site to complete the work,
- Details of inspections that have been carried out or need to be carried out on the plant and equipment listed.

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