How to Write a SWMS

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To write a SWMS, work through eight steps: identify the high risk construction work, describe the work as a sequence of steps, list the hazards of each step, assess the risk, choose controls in the hierarchy of controls order, record the plant and licences needed, add the legislation and emergency procedures, then consult the workers and have them sign on. The document must be site-specific to the actual job, cite your state's WHS or OHS legislation, and be prepared before the work starts.

1. 1

   Identify the high risk construction work

   Confirm which of the 18 high risk construction work categories the job involves (reg 291). If any apply, a SWMS is required before the work starts.

2. 2

   Break the work into steps

   Describe the activity as a sequence of 6 to 12 work steps, in the order they happen on site.

3. 3

   List the hazards for each step

   For every step, write down what could cause harm: falls, energised services, dust, plant movement, and so on.

4. 4

   Assess the risk

   Rate each hazard for likelihood and consequence before controls, so the highest risks are obvious.

5. 5

   Choose controls in hierarchy order

   For each hazard, apply the hierarchy of controls (reg 36): eliminate, substitute, isolate, engineering, administrative, then PPE last. Never rely on PPE where a higher control is practicable.

6. 6

   Record plant, licences and training

   List the equipment, high risk work licences, white cards, and training the work needs.

7. 7

   Add legislation and emergency procedures

   Cite your state's WHS Regulation (or the Victorian OHS Regulations) and set out what to do in an emergency.

8. 8

   Consult and sign on

   Go through the SWMS with the workers doing the work, let them raise issues, and have everyone sign the acknowledgement before starting.