A Safe Work Method Statement or SWMS, is a part of a Workplace Safety Plan. It is predominately used in construction. A Safe Work Method Statement SWMS is a document that gives specific instructions on how to safely perform a work related task, and/or operate a piece of plant or equipment. A Safe Work Method Statement SWMS advises employees and contractors on how to perform work related tasks safely.

Fork Lift Trafic Managment

 

  • Ensure that a Safe Work Method Statement SWMS is prepared before the proposed work starts
  • Make arrangements to ensure that the high risk construction work is carried out in accordance with the Safe Work Method Statement SWMS
  • Ensure that a copy of the Safe Work Method Statement SWMS is given to the principal contractor before the work starts
  • Ensure that a Safe Work Method Statement SWMS is reviewed and revised if necessary
  • Keep a copy of the Safe Work Method Statement SWMS until the high risk construction work is completed.

 

All duty holders involved in a high risk work activity must make sure:

  • The work is carried out in accordance with the Safe Work Method Statement SWMS
  • If the work is not carried out in accordance with the Safe Work Method Statement SWMS , the work is:
    • Stopped immediately or as soon as it is safe to do so
    • Resumed in accordance with the statement
  • All Safe Work Method Statement SWMS are given to the principal contractor prior to work commencing
  • Safe Work Method Statement SWMS are kept so as to be readily available for inspection.