10 SWMS Examples & Templates to Simplify High-Risk Work

One of the most crucial instruments for managing safety when carrying out high-risk construction work in Australia is a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS). It is mandated by law under the Work Health and Safety Regulations for certain high-risk construction projects. The creation of a thorough yet useful work method statement (SWMS) assists in identifying risky tasks, choosing suitable risk control strategies, and safeguarding employees against situations like falls, electrocution from powered electrical equipment, and exposure to flammable or contaminated air.

However, let's face it, starting from scratch when creating a SWMS can feel like a daunting task, involving a significant amount of paperwork. Templates and examples are handy for this reason. In addition to saving time, they provide a clear framework that you can modify for your specific project. This post will explain what a SWMS is, why it's necessary in Australia, and provide ten comprehensive SWMS templates and examples to make high-risk work easier.

What Exactly Is a Safe Work Method Statement?

A document named the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) outlines the high-risk construction work being done, the risks involved, and the controls in place to mitigate those risks. A SWMS is task-specific as opposed to a general safety policy, which covers broad procedures. It examines a specific job in detail and provides workers with actionable steps to follow.

SWMS Determines:

• The things or activities that have the potential to hurt, injure, or kill employees are known as hazards.
• The possibility that an employee could be hurt by a hazard. (Low, moderate, or extreme likelihood is measured.)
• Control measures are steps taken to mitigate or eliminate risks associated with work activities.

In Australia, SWMS are governed by the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011. The rules are clear: before using the first tool, you must prepare and adhere to a SWMS if the job is classified as high-risk construction work (HRCW).

When Is a SWMS Needed?

An SWMS is required whenever high-risk construction work is being carried out. Safe Work Australia lists activities such as working at heights over two metres, excavating deeper than 1.5 metres, demolishing load-bearing structures, or working in confined spaces as examples. In reality, if the work could result in serious injury or worse, it likely requires a SWMS.

What are a few instances of high-risk construction?

Some typical tasks in high-risk construction include:

• A person falling from more than three metres in areas with flammable or contaminated air
• Work involving load-bearing structures in tunnels or trenches deeper than 1.5 metres
• Doing diving work in a restricted area
• Work on refrigerant lines or close to them
• Hazardous substances or other liquids
• Work involving gas mains under pressure
• Jobs involving artificial temperature extremes
• Work on the precast concrete components

High-Risk Construction Work Categories:

What are the Advantages of Risk and Safe Work Method Statements?

With an excellent SWMS template in place, your team will be able to:

◾️Cut down on accidents

Safety advice is incorporated into SWMS in order to prevent incidents before they happen. You can significantly cut down on the chances of serious damage and eliminate hazards by using signs like "hard hat only area" or "slippery when wet."

◾️Avoid liability

You can make sure you include all the guidelines and information your team needs to stay safe by using a SWMS template to map out your services in safety procedures. In the unfortunate event of an accident, this will help you avoid liability and lawsuits.

◾️Boost communication

When put into practice, your SWMS can also improve communication. To make sure everyone agrees, you can communicate instructions to your contractors, subcontractors, or technicians by outlining the job steps for your site.

◾️Save time

Your safe work method statements can save you time in addition to lowering liability. Although completing paperwork may not seem like a time-saver, your SWMS can actually help you pinpoint areas where you can improve your work.

Why SWMS Templates Make Life Easier?

If you've ever had to create one, you know how time-consuming an SWMS can be. Templates take away the pain by providing a structured format. ISO consulting services often recommend these to ensure compliance while covering all key information.

The advantages are clear:

• Saves time - You don't start from a blank page.
• Consistency - Every SWMS follows the same logical structure.
• Compliance - Templates are generally designed to meet WHS requirements.
• Usability - Workers become familiar with the style, making training easier.

Of course, a template is only a starting point. You must customise it for your specific site and job. But with the right foundation, that process is far smoother.

What Should Be in Your Template for a Safe Work Method Statement?

A well-structured SWMS template ensures that nothing is overlooked and that your workers can actually use it on-site.

Here's what every SWMS template should contain:

• Project specifics: Date, contractor information, work description, and site location.
• High-risk work description: Describe the kind of high-risk construction work (HRCW) being done, such as excavation or working at heights.
• Risks and hazards: Identify the risks associated with the task.
• Control measures: Describe the engineering controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) that will be used to eliminate or reduce risks.
• Work process step-by-step: Describe the order of tasks and include safety precautions at each stage.
• Roles and responsibilities: Enumerate managers, employees, and other safety-related personnel.
• Training and communication: Incorporate toolbox talks, inductions, and a section where employees sign off to attest that they have read and comprehended the SWMS.
• Monitoring and review: As site conditions change, make room for updates through monitoring and review.
• Emergency protocols: Describe evacuation, first aid, and task-specific rescue plans.

SWMS Template Checklist:

Make High-Risk Work Easier with These Ten SWMS Templates & Examples

You can save time, guarantee compliance, and instil confidence in your team to work safely by beginning with a customised SWMS template. The ten most popular SWMS templates, tailored to industry requirements, will be explored below.

1. Working at Heights SWMS

When you need it: Any task above 2 metres, including scaffolding, ladders, and elevated platforms.

Working at heights is one of the most common causes of serious workplace injuries. A good SWMS explains not only the hazards but also the practical steps workers need to take to stay safe.

Hazards covered:

• Falls from height
• Falling objects
• Unsafe ladder or scaffold use

Control measures:

• Use of harnesses and fall arrest systems
• Regular inspection of scaffolds and ladders
• Exclusion zones beneath elevated work areas

Practical SWMS tip: Include diagrams of fall protection systems and demonstrate safe ladder setup. Regular training and acknowledgment by workers ensure everyone understands their responsibilities.

2. Asbestos Removal SWMS

When you need it: Handling or removing asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos is a serious health hazard. Beyond standard precautions, a SWMS should include containment, monitoring, and disposal procedures.

Hazards:

• Inhalation of fibres
• Spread of contamination

Control measures:

• Licensed removalists only
• Full PPE including respirators and disposable suits
• Proper containment and waste disposal

Pro tip: Attach a waste disposal log and include a pre-start checklist to track safety compliance.

3. Traffic Management SWMS

When you need it: Working near roads, car parks, or mobile plant.

Traffic management involves protecting workers from vehicle hazards. A SWMS should identify risks and outline procedures to minimise collisions.

Hazards covered:

• Vehicle collisions
• Pedestrian safety risks
• Reversing accidents

Control measures:

• Traffic control plans with signage and barriers
• High-visibility clothing for all personnel
• Spotters to guide vehicle movement

Practical SWMS tip: Include a site map showing traffic flow and access points for both workers and vehicles.

4. Earthmoving & Mobile Plant SWMS

When you need it: Excavators, loaders, or heavy machinery operations.

Large machinery can cause serious accidents if not managed properly.

Hazards:

• Collisions
• Machine overturns
• Contact with underground services

Control measures:

• Site induction for operators
• Clear exclusion zones
• Pre-start inspections and maintenance logs

Pro tip: Include communication protocols such as two-way radios or spotters for safe operation.

5. Electrical, HVAC & Solar SWMS

When you need it: Working with electrical installations, HVAC systems, or solar panels.

Combining height work and electrical hazards requires detailed SWMS attention.

Hazards:

• Electric shock
• Falls from roof or scaffolds
• Exposure to refrigerants

Control measures:

• Circuit isolation and lockout/tagout
• Use of PPE including insulated gloves
• Harnesses and fall protection for elevated tasks

Pro tip: Include emergency procedures for electrical faults or refrigerant leaks.

6. Painting SWMS

When you need it: Interior or exterior painting, coating, or finishing tasks.

Painting may seem low-risk but involves chemical exposure and height hazards.

Hazards:

• Chemical fumes
• Falls from ladders or scaffolds
• Slips on wet surfaces

Control measures:

• Ventilation and PPE (respirators, gloves)
• Ladder and scaffold safety
• Spill and waste management

Pro tip: Include visual task sequences and pre-start checks for elevated work areas.

7. Hot Work SWMS

When you need it: Welding, grinding, cutting, or any task producing heat or sparks.

Hot work introduces fire, burn, and chemical inhalation hazards. A SWMS ensures workers understand the precautions needed before, during, and after work.

Hazards covered:

• Burns
• Fire hazards
• Fume inhalation

Control measures:

• Fire extinguishers and blankets on site
• Ventilation or fume extraction
• Fire watch during and after work

Practical SWMS tip: Include a "hot work permit" checklist and define responsibilities for fire monitoring.

8. Demolition SWMS

When you need it: Partial or full demolition of structures.

Demolition projects require planning for both physical hazards and environmental risks. SWMS templates should guide teams through each stage while identifying control measures.

Hazards covered:

• Structural collapse
• Falling debris
• Noise and vibration

Control measures:

• Engineering assessments before demolition
• Controlled exclusion zones
• Dust suppression and debris management

Practical SWMS tip: Include a timeline of demolition stages with hazards and

9. Crane & Lifting Equipment SWMS

When you need it: Operating cranes, hoists, or any lifting machinery.

Lifting heavy loads presents risks of strikes, crushing, or equipment failure.

Hazards:

• Load dropping
• Contact with power lines
• Crane overturn

Control measures:

• Pre-use equipment checks
• Use of tag lines and exclusion zones
• Trained operators only

Pro tip: Include a lifting plan diagram and a checklist for daily inspections.

10. Swimming Pool Construction SWMS

When you need it: Digging, reinforcing, and installing pools.

Pool construction combines excavation, concrete work, and repetitive lifting.

Hazards:

• Trench collapse
• Manual handling injuries
• Slips on wet surfaces

Control measures:

• Shoring or battering of trenches
• Mechanical lifting aids
• PPE including gloves and boots

Pro tip: Document a daily inspection checklist and emergency procedures for cave-ins or falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is a SWMS legally required for all construction work?

A: No, SWMS is only mandatory for high-risk construction work as defined by WHS regulations. Standard construction activities may not require a SWMS but should still follow safety procedures.

Q: How often should SWMS be reviewed?

A: SWMS should be reviewed whenever site conditions change, new hazards are identified, incidents occur, or at a minimum every 12 months for ongoing projects.

Q: Can I use the same SWMS template for different projects?

A: Templates can be reused but must be customised for each specific project, site conditions, and work environment. Never use a generic SWMS without site-specific modifications.

Q: Who is responsible for ensuring SWMS compliance?

A: The principal contractor is ultimately responsible, but all workers, supervisors, and subcontractors have duties to follow the SWMS procedures and report any safety concerns.

Q: What happens if work is done without a required SWMS?

A: Working without a required SWMS can result in significant penalties, work stoppages, and increased liability. Penalties can reach up to $600,000 for individuals and $3 million for companies.

Final Words

Your SWMS becomes more than just documentation when you combine tried-and-true templates with useful additions like monitoring, training, emergency protocols, and worker responsibilities. It turns into a useful manual that complies with Australian WHS standards and keeps employees safe.

You can further guarantee that your SWMS documents are precise, site-specific, and useful in practical settings by collaborating with seasoned experts who provide OHS consulting services.