Gary’s Safety Tips 
G’day mates! Today we’re going to talk about an important topic for all the miners out there: developing Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for mining sites. It’s crucial to have proper SWMS in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of workers on mining sites.
First and foremost, let’s understand what SWMS is. It’s a document that outlines the hazards and risks associated with a particular task or activity, and the steps that need to be taken to ensure the safety of workers while performing that task. SWMS is an essential tool for managing risks and promoting a safe work environment.
Now, the question is, how do we develop effective SWMS for mining sites? Well, it all starts with a thorough understanding of the task or activity that needs to be performed. This includes identifying the potential hazards and risks associated with that task, as well as the control measures that need to be put in place to manage those risks.
Once the hazards and risks have been identified, it’s important to prioritize them in terms of severity and likelihood. This will help determine which risks need to be addressed first and which control measures are most critical.
The next step is to develop the SWMS itself. The SWMS should be written in a clear and concise manner, using language that is easy to understand for everyone involved in the task. It should include information such as the job steps, hazards, and control measures, as well as any relevant information about personal protective equipment (PPE) that needs to be worn or used.
It’s also important to make sure that the SWMS is regularly reviewed and updated as necessary. This will ensure that it remains relevant and effective, and that any changes to the task or the work environment are taken into account.
Now, let’s talk about some tips for developing effective SWMS for mining sites. Firstly, it’s important to involve workers in the development process. Workers are often the best source of information about the hazards and risks associated with a particular task, and they can provide valuable insights into the control measures that are most effective.
Secondly, it’s important to use a standard SWMS template that is specific to the mining industry. This will ensure that the SWMS is consistent across all tasks and activities, and that it meets industry standards and regulations.
Thirdly, it’s important to ensure that the SWMS is communicated effectively to all workers who will be involved in the task. This includes providing training on the SWMS, as well as making sure that workers understand their roles and responsibilities in implementing the control measures.
Finally, it’s important to monitor the effectiveness of the SWMS over time. This can be done through regular audits and inspections, as well as by gathering feedback from workers about their experiences with the SWMS.
In summary, developing effective SWMS is crucial for promoting a safe work environment on mining sites. It involves identifying hazards and risks associated with a particular task, prioritizing those risks, and developing a clear and concise SWMS that outlines the control measures that need to be put in place. It’s important to involve workers in the development process, use a standard template specific to the mining industry, communicate the SWMS effectively, and monitor its effectiveness over time.
Remember, safety should always be the number one priority on mining sites, and developing effective SWMS is an essential part of achieving that goal. Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay safe!
Cheers,
