Risk Assessments Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)

Safe Work Method Statement Template for Risk Assessments

• Pre-filled and Comprehensive: Our template comes pre-filled with detailed information and covers all necessary aspects of a project’s risk assessment. It is designed to ensure that no critical step or factor is overlooked.
• Fully editable and customisable in Microsoft Word format: The template is provided as a Microsoft Word document, making it easy to edit and customise based on the specific requirements of your project. You can easily add or remove sections, modify text, and incorporate relevant details.
• Scope of the project and project details: The template includes dedicated sections to clearly define the scope of the project and provide essential project details such as location, timeframe, and parties involved.
• Checklist of any high-risk machinery on site: A comprehensive checklist is included to identify and record any high-risk machinery present during the demolition process. This helps ensure all necessary safety measures are taken in relation to these specific machines.
• Recording space for staff training: You can keep track of staff training by utilising the recording space provided in the template. This ensures that all employees have received appropriate training regarding potential risks and precautionary measures.
• Before and after risk ratings: The template allows you to assess and rate the level of risk before initiating the demolition work and compare it with the post-work risk assessment. This provides a clear understanding of the effectiveness of implemented safety measures.
• Resources for use of legislative references: Legislative references related to work health and safety regulations are available within the template, providing guidance on compliance with relevant laws and standards.
• All PPE required: The template specifies all necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required for the demolition work. This ensures that workers are adequately protected from potential hazards on-site.
• Risk assessment and risk assessment matrix: A standard risk assessment process is incorporated in the template, allowing you to identify and evaluate potential risks associated with specific tasks. A risk assessment matrix helps you determine the likelihood and severity of each identified risk.
• Checklist to ensure all requirements are covered: To facilitate thorough implementation of the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS), a checklist is included to ensure that all necessary requirements have been met and documented.
• Sign off page for all workers and responsible persons: The template includes a sign off page where all workers involved in the project, as well as responsible personnel, can acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of the SWMS.
• Easy to use, easy to customize: Our template is designed to be user-friendly, making it straightforward to fill out and adapt to your specific needs. No complex or convoluted language is used, ensuring comprehension by tradespeople.
• Suitable for large contracts and tenders: Whether it’s a large-scale project or a tender requiring detailed documentation, our SWMS template meets the standards necessary for tier 1 contractual work.
• Instantly delivered download: As soon as your purchase is completed, you will receive an instant download link, allowing you to access the template immediately and start using it to enhance your risk assessment procedures within demolitions.

Risks associated with Risk Assessments

When conducting risk assessments, there are several key risks that need to be considered. These risks include:

1. Hazardous materials: Work often involves the handling and disposal of hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead-based paint, and chemicals. Exposure to these materials can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory problems and cancer.
2. Structural instability: Activities can weaken structures, making them unstable and prone to collapse. This poses a high risk of injury or fatality for workers involved.
3. Falls from heights: Work often requires working at heights, such as on scaffolding or elevated platforms. Falls from heights can result in severe injuries or even death.
4. Flying debris: During the working process, debris can become airborne and pose a risk to workers and bystanders. Flying debris may cause lacerations, fractures, or head injuries.
5. Equipment-related hazards: The use of heavy machinery, power tools, and equipment in demolition work presents various hazards. Workers may face risks such as entanglement, crushing, or being struck by moving parts if proper precautions are not taken.
6. Electrical hazards: Sites often have live electrical installations that present the risk of electrocution or electrical fires if safety measures are not implemented.
7. Environmental impacts: Activities can have environmental consequences if waste is not managed properly. Improper disposal of hazardous materials and pollutants can contaminate soil, waterways, and air quality.

Safe Work Method Statement for Risk Assessments

A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a document that outlines the high-risk construction work being done and the control measures in place to mitigate those risks. For Risk Assessments, an SWMS can help reduce the identified risks by:

1. Identifying hazards: The SWMS prompts the contractor to identify all potential hazards associated with the demolition task at hand.
2. Assessing risks: The SWMS requires an assessment of the likelihood and consequences of each identified hazard. This allows the contractor to prioritize risks and determine appropriate control measures.
3. Implementing control measures: The SWMS provides a framework for selecting and implementing control measures specific to the identified risks. This may include safe work procedures, personal protective equipment (PPE), and specialised training.
4. Communicating and consulting: The SWMS ensures that all relevant parties, including workers and subcontractors, are aware of the identified risks and control measures. It promotes open communication and collaboration to maintain a safe work environment.
5. Reviewing and revising: The SWMS should be regularly reviewed and revised to ensure ongoing effectiveness and compliance with changing conditions or new hazards.

By following a comprehensive SWMS for risk assessments, demolition contractors can minimise the likelihood and severity of accidents and injuries. However, it is important to note that no system can completely eliminate all risks. Regular evaluation, monitoring, and ongoing training are necessary to maintain a safe work environment.