Gary’s Safety Tips 
G’day mate, let’s talk about developing Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for mining sites. Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “Gary, why are we talking about SWMS? It’s boring stuff.” But let me tell you, nothing is more important than the safety of our workers.
Mining is an inherently risky business, and that’s why we need to have proper safety protocols in place. A SWMS is a crucial document that outlines the hazards associated with a specific task and the control measures that need to be implemented to reduce those hazards.
So, how do we develop a SWMS for mining sites? Here are some steps to follow:
- Identify the Task
The first step is to identify the task that needs to be performed. This could be anything from drilling, blasting, excavation, or transporting materials. Once you have identified the task, you need to break it down into smaller steps.
- Identify the Hazards
The next step is to identify the hazards associated with each step. This could include things like falls, electrocution, fire, explosions, or exposure to harmful chemicals. You need to be thorough in identifying all the potential hazards.
- Assess the Risk
Once you have identified the hazards, you need to assess the risk associated with each hazard. This involves considering the likelihood of the hazard occurring and the severity of the consequences if it does. You need to prioritize the hazards based on their level of risk.
- Develop Control Measures
The next step is to develop control measures to reduce the risk associated with each hazard. This could include things like providing personal protective equipment (PPE), installing safety barriers, or implementing administrative controls such as signage or training. You need to be specific in outlining the control measures and ensure they are practical and effective.
- Write the SWMS
The final step is to write the SWMS. This document should include a description of the task, the hazards associated with each step, the risk assessment, and the control measures that need to be implemented. It should also include the names of the workers responsible for carrying out the task and the dates the SWMS was reviewed and updated.
Now, it’s important to note that developing a SWMS is not a one-time event. The SWMS needs to be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure it remains relevant and effective. It should also be communicated to all workers involved in the task, and they should be trained on the control measures outlined in the SWMS.
In addition to developing SWMS, there are other things we can do to improve safety on mining sites. For example, we can implement a safety management system that incorporates hazard identification, risk assessment, and control measures. We can also provide regular safety training to all workers and encourage them to report any safety concerns they have.
At the end of the day, safety should be our top priority. We need to ensure that all workers return home safely to their families at the end of the day. Developing a comprehensive SWMS is just one way we can improve safety on mining sites. Let’s make safety a habit and not just a priority.
Cheers,
