Gary’s Safety Tips 
G’day everyone, Gary here, and today we’re going to talk about the health and safety implications of a non-compliant safe work method statement.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand what a safe work method statement is and why it matters. A safe work method statement, or SWMS for short, is a document that outlines the high-risk construction work activities that are to be undertaken and the health and safety measures that will be put in place to ensure that the work is completed safely.
In Australia, SWMS are legally required for any high-risk construction work activities that are worth $250,000 or more. This includes things like demolition, excavation, working at heights, and using heavy machinery. The SWMS must be developed in consultation with workers who are going to be carrying out the work, and it must be reviewed and updated regularly.
So, what happens if a company doesn’t have a compliant SWMS in place? Well, the health and safety implications can be severe. Without a proper SWMS, workers may be exposed to risks that could lead to serious injuries or even death.
For example, if a company is carrying out demolition work without a proper SWMS in place, there could be a risk of falling debris, which could seriously injure or kill workers or members of the public nearby. Or, if a company is using heavy machinery without a proper SWMS, there could be a risk of the machinery tipping over, which could also result in serious injuries or fatalities.
In addition to the risk of physical harm, a non-compliant SWMS can also have legal and financial implications. If an accident does occur due to a non-compliant SWMS, the company could face fines, legal action, and reputational damage. Not to mention the emotional toll it can take on the workers and their families.
So, what can companies do to ensure that they have a compliant SWMS in place? First, it’s important to make sure that the SWMS is developed in consultation with workers who will be carrying out the high-risk work activities. This ensures that the SWMS is tailored to the specific risks and hazards of the job at hand.
Second, the SWMS should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that it remains relevant and effective. As the job progresses, new risks and hazards may emerge, so it’s important to stay on top of these changes and make any necessary updates to the SWMS.
Third, it’s important to ensure that all workers who are carrying out high-risk work activities are trained on the SWMS and understand their roles and responsibilities. This includes understanding the risks and hazards associated with the work and knowing what measures to take to mitigate those risks.
Ultimately, having a compliant SWMS in place is critical for ensuring the health and safety of workers and members of the public. It’s also essential for legal compliance and protecting the reputation of the company.
So, if you’re a company that is carrying out high-risk construction work activities, make sure that you have a compliant SWMS in place. Consult with your workers, regularly review and update the SWMS, and ensure that all workers are trained and understand their roles and responsibilities.
Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay safe!
Cheers,
