What Does SWMS Stand For?
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SWMS stands for Safe Work Method Statement. It is a document required under Australian Work Health and Safety law before any high risk construction work starts. A SWMS identifies the high risk construction work, the hazards involved, and the control measures used to do the work safely, and it must be specific to the site. On site it is often pronounced "swims".
What the acronym means, letter by letter
- ✓ Safe: the document is about doing the work without harm
- ✓ Work: it covers a specific work activity, not the whole job
- ✓ Method: it sets out the method, step by step
- ✓ Statement: it is a written, signed statement of how the work will be done safely
What a SWMS is for
A SWMS makes you think through the hazards and controls before the work starts, and gives the crew and the principal contractor a shared plan for doing the work safely. It is legally required for the 18 categories of high risk construction work, and it must be prepared before the work begins, kept on site, and reviewed when things change.
Common questions
▸How do you pronounce SWMS?
Most people on site say "swims". Others spell out S-W-M-S. Both are understood.
▸Is a SWMS the same as a JSA?
No. A SWMS is legally required for high risk construction work and has specific duties. A JSA (job safety analysis) is a broader planning tool with no legal trigger and does not replace a SWMS.
▸When do I need a SWMS?
Before starting any of the 18 high risk construction work activities, such as work above 2 metres, work near energised electrical services, or a trench deeper than 1.5 metres.
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