Gary’s Safety Tips 
G’day everyone, today I want to talk about a crucial aspect of construction projects that often gets overlooked: safe work method statements (SWMS). As someone who’s been in the construction industry for a while now, I cannot stress enough how important it is to have a robust and effective SWMS in place before starting any project.
For those who might not be familiar, SWMS is a written document that outlines the high-risk construction work activities and the steps that need to be taken to manage those risks. It’s a legal requirement in Australia to have a SWMS for any construction work that involves the risk of falls from a height, working in confined spaces, using explosives or demolition work, and more.
SWMS is not just a document to tick off a compliance checklist; it’s a tool to ensure the safety of workers, subcontractors, and anyone else involved in the project. As a responsible contractor, it’s your duty to identify potential hazards and take the necessary steps to mitigate them. A well-written SWMS can help you achieve that goal.
But why do so many contractors overlook SWMS? I believe there are a few reasons for that. Firstly, some people see it as a tedious and time-consuming task. They’d rather get on with the job and deal with any safety issues as they arise. But that’s a dangerous approach, as it can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Prevention is always better than cure, and that’s where SWMS comes in.
Another reason why SWMS is overlooked is that some contractors think they already know what they’re doing, and they don’t need a written document to tell them how to do their job safely. That’s a flawed assumption because accidents can happen to anyone, even the most experienced workers. Having a SWMS in place can help you identify risks that you might have overlooked and ensure that you have the necessary controls in place to manage those risks.
So, what makes a good SWMS? Firstly, it should be specific to the project and the high-risk activities involved. It should identify the potential hazards and the controls that will be used to manage those hazards. The controls should be practical, and everyone involved in the project should be trained on how to implement them. The SWMS should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect any changes in the project scope or the hazards involved.
As a contractor, it’s also important to involve your workers and subcontractors in the development of the SWMS. They’re the ones who will be carrying out the work, so they know best about the potential hazards and the controls that will work in practice. By involving them in the process, you’ll also increase their awareness and commitment to safety, which can only be a good thing.
In conclusion, SWMS is a vital aspect of any construction project, and it should never be overlooked. It’s not just a legal requirement; it’s a tool to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the project. As a responsible contractor, you have a duty to identify potential hazards and take the necessary steps to manage them. A well-written SWMS can help you achieve that goal and ensure that your project is completed safely and successfully.
Cheers,
