Gary’s Safety Tips 
G’day everyone, it’s great to be here today to talk about the importance of auditing safe work method statements (SWMS) in the workplace. As business owners, managers, and employees, we all have a responsibility to ensure that our workplaces are safe and free from harm. Conducting regular audits of SWMS is a key part of fulfilling this responsibility.
Firstly, let’s define what a safe work method statement is. A SWMS is a document that outlines the risks and hazards associated with a particular job or task and the control measures that need to be implemented to mitigate these risks. This document is developed in consultation with employees and is used to guide the safe completion of work tasks.
Auditing a SWMS involves reviewing the document to ensure that it accurately reflects the risks and hazards associated with the job or task and that the control measures outlined are adequate to mitigate these risks. It also involves ensuring that the document is being implemented correctly in the workplace.
So why is auditing SWMS so important? Well, firstly, it ensures that the risks and hazards associated with a particular job or task are being properly identified and managed. This reduces the likelihood of workplace accidents, injuries, and fatalities. It also ensures that control measures are being implemented correctly, which further reduces the risk of harm.
Auditing SWMS also helps to identify any gaps or weaknesses in the document itself. This allows for improvements to be made to the SWMS, ensuring that it is an accurate and effective tool for guiding safe work practices. It also allows for improvements to be made to the control measures themselves, ensuring that they are the most effective at mitigating risks.
Another benefit of auditing SWMS is that it demonstrates a commitment to workplace safety. It shows employees that their safety is a top priority and that management is actively taking steps to ensure a safe workplace. This can lead to increased employee morale, engagement, and productivity.
So, how often should SWMS be audited? Well, there is no hard and fast rule, but it is generally recommended that they be audited at least annually, or whenever there are changes to the job or task being performed. This ensures that the SWMS is always up to date and relevant.
It’s also important to note that auditing SWMS is not a one-time event. It should be an ongoing process that is integrated into the workplace culture. This means that employees should be involved in the development and review of SWMS, and that they should be encouraged to provide feedback on their effectiveness. Regular audits should be scheduled and carried out consistently, with any issues or concerns being addressed promptly.
In summary, auditing safe work method statements is a vital part of ensuring workplace safety. It ensures that risks and hazards are properly identified and managed, that control measures are effective, and that employees are aware of the safest way to perform their work tasks. It also demonstrates a commitment to workplace safety and can lead to increased employee morale, engagement, and productivity. So, let’s all make sure we are regularly auditing our SWMS and taking steps to create a safer workplace for everyone.
Cheers,
