The Working at Heights Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a comprehensive document outlining the safety steps for working at heights. In particular, this SWMS details the risk management processes and procedures that need to be followed when preparing to work at height.         

This SWMS does not cover in specific detail the operation of:

-       Elevated Work Platforms (e.g. cherry pickers, scissor lifts)

-       Erecting scaffolding,

-       Attaching restraints

-       Installation of edge protection

-       Work tasks

Due to the high-risk nature of working at height, Height equipment specific SWMS will need to be implemented for these tasks prior to commencing the activity or this SWMS modified to suit.

Work involving a risk of a person falling more than two metres, is defined as “High Risk Construction Work” by Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011.

This SWMS includes:

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

This SWMS 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.

Product Details:

• Minimum 11 pages
• 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

Related items:

• Manual Handling – Hazardous Manual Tasks
• Scaffolding – Use of
• Cherry Picker
• Scissor Lift

Product extract:

If a fall arrest system is utilised, emergency and rescue procedures must be developed for the system. Do not commence work until:

-       These procedures are developed and in place

-       The procedures have been tested

-       All relevant workers are provided training and instruction in these emergency and rescue procedures

Barricading and signage is developed for particular site. Ensure:

-       Signs used to provide clear instruction on required PPE, entry permissions and hazard areas

-       Clearly identified vehicle and pedestrian access paths, parking/ loading zones, traffic controllers

-       Consider appropriate barricades for exclusion zones. Conduct risk assessment and utilise appropriate barricade for exclusion zones.

Locate:

-       Any existing power cables, water pipes, air conditioning ducts etc. prior to work commencing.

Power cables:

-       Depending upon the risk of electrocution to on-site workers (roof workers, crane operators, labourers etc.) the following must be considered:

-       “Tiger Tails” can be installed. (Note: Tiger tails ONLY give a visual warning of the proximity of power lines.)

-       Power cables can be redirected or power isolated for the duration of the work.