The Soil -  Mulch Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a comprehensive 16 page procedure outlining the safety steps for the safe handling of Soil and Mulch products

The Soil - Mulch Work Method Statement (WMS) is ready to use and is not a blank template. Simply add your company details, ABN, and include any site specific details or risks and make it specific to the task at hand. It is then ready for printing and to be incorporated as part of your overall WHS System.

This SWMS covers mulching of garden beds and handling potting mix/fertilisers. This does not cover application of bulk solid/liquid fertilisers, insecticide or pesticides. This SWMS should be used in conjunction with SafetyCulture’s Fertiliser Handling SWMS.

Main hazards:

• Exposure to hazardous dust
• Exposure to hazardous substances (including legionella bacterium)
• Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) from hazardous manual tasks
• Struck by moving vehicle
• UV exposure
• Animal bites/stings

Environmental Issues:

• Contamination of sensitive areas
• Hazardous dusts

The Soil - Mulch Work Method Statement can be used as part of your WHS inductions, for Tool box talks or tender applications.

The Soil - Mulch SWMS includes:

• PPE
• Safety Notes
• Planning
• Preparation
• Pre-Operational Inspection
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Emergency Procedures
• Review
• References

 Product Details:

• 16 Page procedure
• Written by ex WHS inspectors
• Referenced
• Risk ratings before and after control measures
• MS Word format NOT PDF
• Task specific and site specific details easy to add
• Includes easy to complete boxes for Company details and project details
• Employee sign off section
• Instant download delivery

Related items:

• Manual Handling – Hazardous Manual Tasks
• Fertiliser Handling
• Trucks – Loading and Unloading
• Traffic Management Plan
• Environmental Management Policy

Operation: (extract only)

Ensure debris, packages etc are removed and disposed of regularly.  Do not allow packages to blow away.

Ensure tools/equipment are removed from ground when not in use. Store in approved locations.

Ensure no electrical leads are placed on the ground where they may be damaged, become wet or otherwise unsafe.

Monitor work position at all times. Ensure:

• Clear of moving vehicles
• Within sight of vehicle operators
• Check for traffic before crossing roads/car parks etc
• Able to hear audible alarms/ operator calls
• Clear of pits, drop offs or other dangerous areas such as roads
• Within permitted working areas for site

Monitor ground continually. Be cautious of any signs of dangerous wildlife (such as funnel webs, burrows/ mounds, ant/ wasp nests etc.). If suspected, do not disturb area – contact Supervisor immediately.

Wash hands/arms/face/neck with soap and warm water before eating, smoking etc. Follow hygiene /decontamination procedures listed in SDS.