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Safe Work Method Statement Template for Working Near Water
Please note that while our template is comprehensive and designed to assist you in meeting safety standards, it is important to customise and review it to fit the unique requirements of your project. Safety management should align with your specific circumstances and industry guidelines.
Risks Associated with Working Near Water:
Working near water poses several risks for workers. It is essential to identify and manage these risks to ensure the safety of workers and prevent accidents or injuries. The potential risks include:
1. Drowning or Submersion: The most significant risk associated with working near water is drowning or submersion. This can occur due to slips, falls, equipment failure, or inadequate training.
2. Uneven Surfaces: Water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, or ponds, may have uneven surfaces, hidden obstacles, or submerged debris. Demolition contractors need to be cautious to avoid tripping or slipping, which can lead to injuries.
3. Unpredictable Water Currents: Water currents can be erratic and change rapidly, especially in rivers or tidal areas. These currents can drag workers into dangerous areas or cause them to lose their balance.
4. Confined Spaces: In some cases, demolition work near water may involve entering confined spaces like underground chambers or tunnels. These spaces pose additional risks, including limited visibility, restricted movement, and potential entrapment.
5. Hazardous Materials Contamination: Water bodies might contain hazardous materials such as oil, chemicals, or sewage. Workers must take precautions to avoid exposure and contamination while conducting demolition activities near water.
6. Weather Conditions: Working near water exposes workers to various weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, or extreme temperatures. These conditions can increase the likelihood of accidents or health issues.
A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for Working Near Water:
To mitigate the risks associated with working near water, workers should develop a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS). An effective SWMS will outline step-by-step procedures to control and minimise hazards. Some key considerations for an SWMS for working near water include:
1. Hazard Identification: Identify all potential hazards associated with the specific worksite and activity, including water conditions, uneven surfaces, confined spaces, and hazardous materials.
2. Risk Assessment: Evaluate the likelihood and severity of each identified hazard to determine the level of risk. Prioritise high-risk hazards and develop control measures accordingly.
3. Control Measures: Implement practical control measures to eliminate or minimize risks. These may include providing personal protective equipment like life jackets, ensuring a safe distance from the water’s edge, or installing safety barriers.
4. Worker Training: Ensure all workers involved in working near water are adequately trained in water safety, emergency response procedures, and the use of necessary equipment.
5. Communication and Supervision: Establish clear communication channels between workers and supervisors, emphasising the importance of reporting potential hazards or incidents promptly. Regular supervision should also be carried out to monitor compliance with safety practices.
6. Emergency Response Plan: Develop an emergency response plan that includes procedures for rescuing workers from water, administering first aid, and contacting emergency services. This plan must be accessible to all workers on-site.
7. Review and Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update the SWMS based on lessons learned, changes in work practices, or new information. Encourage feedback from workers to ensure ongoing improvement of safety protocols.
By implementing a comprehensive Safe Work Method Statement for working near water, workers can effectively identify and manage the risks associated with this specific task. This approach promotes a safer work environment, reducing the chances of accidents, injuries, or fatalities.
Gary’s Safety Tips
Tips for creating a Working Near Water Safe Work Method Statement
Hello, everyone! In today’s fast-paced work environment, it’s crucial to prioritise safety, especially when it comes to working near water. I’m here to share some tips that can help you create a robust Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for such tasks. So, let’s dive right in!
1. Identify potential hazards:
The first step is to conduct a thorough hazard identification assessment specific to your worksite near water. This may include risks such as drowning, slippery surfaces, confined spaces, or electrical hazards in wet environments. It’s essential to involve your team in this process to ensure different perspectives are considered.
2. Assess the risks:
Once you’ve identified the hazards, assess the associated risks. Evaluate the likelihood and severity of each hazard, taking into account factors like water depth, current, weather conditions, and the experience level of your workers. This analysis will help you prioritize controls and allocate resources effectively.
3. Establish control measures:
To manage the identified risks, put control measures in place. These could include providing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such as life jackets and non-slip boots, implementing barriers or fencing around water bodies, and ensuring all electrical equipment meets waterproof standards. Document these measures clearly in your SWMS to keep everyone on the same page.
4. Develop safe work procedures:
Laying out step-by-step safe work procedures is vital to prevent accidents near water. Include detailed instructions on tasks like entering or exiting the water, working from boats, using safety harnesses, and communicating with the team effectively. Consider factors like visibility, communication devices, and emergency response plans while drafting these procedures.
5. Communicate and train:
Your SWMS won’t be effective unless it’s communicated and understood by all workers involved. Conduct regular toolbox talks to explain the risks, control measures, and safe work procedures outlined in the document. Provide training sessions on water safety awareness, specific equipment usage, and emergency protocols to ensure competence across your team.
6. Monitor and review:
Monitoring the implementation of your SWMS is crucial for its success. Regularly assess its effectiveness through inspections, worker feedback, and incident reporting. Keep an eye out for any new hazards that may arise during the course of the project and update your SWMS accordingly. Remember, safety is an ongoing process!
7. Consultation and collaboration:
Don’t forget the power of consultation and collaboration. Involve relevant stakeholders, such as workers, supervisors, and contractors, in the development and review of your SWMS. Their insights and experiences can provide valuable input, ensuring a comprehensive approach to working safely near water.
8. Stay up-to-date with regulations:
Finally, always stay on top of current legislation and industry guidelines related to working near water. Familiarise yourself with state and federal laws, as well as any codes of practice or standards relevant to your field. Compliance is essential to ensure the safety of your team and avoid penalties.
Remember, safety should never be compromised, especially when working near water. By following these tips and creating a thorough Safe Work Method Statement, you can provide a safer working environment for yourself and your team.
Regards,
Download samples of any of the following documentation below:
$96.50
After working for larger companies that take their safety seriously, Bluesafe’s documentation was on par with these companies. You’ve given us the ability to access the same sort of resources that only bigger companies have access to.
Warren Kingsley
Alstain Sheetmetal
I was very impressed with both the service and the turnaround time in dealing with Bluesafe. I was up and running with minimal fuss.
Dr Doug Josephides
Bayside Natural Medicine
You guys added real value with the required documentation that was high quality, affordable, very well put together and easy to implement. By the way, we secured our government tender for another seven years.
Rodney Prendergast
MMLA Group
Getting through an audit can be a daunting experience. Bluesafe’s documentation made the experience so much easier than we had anticipated and we passed the audit without any issues whatsoever. Thanks again, highly appreciated.
Brock Richards
Richards Quality Projects
Thanks so much for the quick response! Not only are the documents comprehensive, but on the same morning my audit was due I received the support I needed within the hour. Highly recommended!
Kathie Gorman
Kaygee Home and Community Support
From the initial contact we’ve had with Bluesafe we’ve found that your customer service, product quality and the after sales support to have been nothing short of excellent. You’ve given us a great customer experience.
Glenn King
Turnco Office Furniture
I just want to say a heartfelt thanks to the team at Bluesafe. Thank you so much for your service, help and support… We passed our NDIS audit!
Dr Scott Ling
Sustain Health
$96.50
After working for larger companies that take their safety seriously, Bluesafe’s documentation was on par with these companies. You’ve given us the ability to access the same sort of resources that only bigger companies have access to.
Warren Kingsley
Alstain Sheetmetal
I was very impressed with both the service and the turnaround time in dealing with Bluesafe. I was up and running with minimal fuss.
Dr Doug Josephides
Bayside Natural Medicine
You guys added real value with the required documentation that was high quality, affordable, very well put together and easy to implement. By the way, we secured our government tender for another seven years.
Rodney Prendergast
MMLA Group
Getting through an audit can be a daunting experience. Bluesafe’s documentation made the experience so much easier than we had anticipated and we passed the audit without any issues whatsoever. Thanks again, highly appreciated.
Brock Richards
Richards Quality Projects
Thanks so much for the quick response! Not only are the documents comprehensive, but on the same morning my audit was due I received the support I needed within the hour. Highly recommended!
Kathie Gorman
Kaygee Home and Community Support
From the initial contact we’ve had with Bluesafe we’ve found that your customer service, product quality and the after sales support to have been nothing short of excellent. You’ve given us a great customer experience.
Glenn King
Turnco Office Furniture
I just want to say a heartfelt thanks to the team at Bluesafe. Thank you so much for your service, help and support… We passed our NDIS audit!
Dr Scott Ling
Sustain Health
