Gary’s Safety Tips 
G’day folks, it’s your safety guy Gary here, and today we’re going to talk about something that’s incredibly important: your obligations as an employee to follow safe work method statements.
Now, I know what you might be thinking – “Gary, that sounds boring as all heck.” But trust me, it’s not. In fact, following safe work method statements can be the difference between life and death.
Let me explain. Safe work method statements, or SWMS for short, are documents that outline the steps that need to be taken to complete a particular task safely. They’re kind of like a recipe for workplace safety.
And as an employee, it’s your responsibility to follow those steps. Why? Well, for starters, it’s the law. Under Australian law, employers are required to provide a safe working environment for their employees. But it’s not just about legal requirements – it’s about keeping yourself and your co-workers safe.
Think about it. If you’re working on a construction site and you don’t follow the SWMS for a particular task, you could be putting yourself and your colleagues in danger. You might be using equipment incorrectly, or not wearing the right protective gear. And if something goes wrong, the consequences could be catastrophic.
But it’s not just high-risk jobs like construction where SWMS are important. They’re relevant for all kinds of workplaces. Maybe you work in an office and need to move some heavy boxes. The SWMS for that task might include instructions on how to lift the boxes safely, or how to use a trolley to transport them. It might seem like common sense stuff, but following those steps could prevent you from injuring your back or causing other injuries.
So, what can you do to make sure you’re following safe work method statements? Well, for starters, make sure you read them. I know it might seem like a hassle, but taking the time to read through the SWMS for a task can give you a better understanding of what’s involved and what you need to do to complete it safely.
Once you’ve read the SWMS, make sure you follow it to the letter. Don’t take shortcuts or skip steps just because you think you know what you’re doing. The SWMS is there for a reason – to keep you safe.
If you’re unsure about anything in the SWMS, don’t be afraid to ask your supervisor or manager for clarification. It’s better to ask a question than to make a mistake that could have serious consequences.
And finally, don’t be afraid to speak up if you see something that doesn’t seem right. Maybe you notice a co-worker isn’t wearing the right protective gear, or they’re not following the steps in the SWMS. Speak up and let them know – it could prevent an accident from happening.
Remember, workplace safety is everyone’s responsibility. By following safe work method statements, you’re doing your part to keep yourself and your co-workers safe. It might not be the most exciting part of your job, but it’s certainly one of the most important.
So, there you have it, folks. Your obligations as an employee to follow safe work method statements in a nutshell. Now go out there and be safe!
Cheers,
