Confined Spaces Work SWMS 10069-5

Confined Space Work Safe Work Method Statement

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) outlines the general the safety steps, hazards and controls associated with working in confined spaces. Confined spaces pose dangers because they are usually not designed to be areas where people work. Confined spaces often have poor ventilation, which allows hazardous atmospheres to quickly develop, especially if the space is small. The hazards aren’t always obvious and they can change over time.

Examples of confined spaces might include vats, tanks, pits, pipes, ducts, flues, chimneys, silos, pressure vessels, underground sewers, wet or dry wells and shafts, when these examples meet the definition of a confined space.

Ready to Use

Save time with our pre-filled, fully customisable templates. Simply add your company details and include any site specific details or risks ensuring it is specific to the task at hand. It is then ready for printing and inclusion in your overall WHS System. 

Confined Space Work SWMS Content: 

• High Risk Construction Work
• Work in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere
• Risk Assessment Matrix
• Hierarchy of Controls
• PPE
• Job Steps (includes potential hazards and control measures)
• Planning & Preparation
• Training and Capabilities
• Assess onsite conditions
• Conduct Pre-entry risk assessment
• Confined space entry permit
• Confined Space Preparation
• Working in Confined Space
• On Completion
• Confined Space Entry Permit
• Emergency Response Procedures
• Legislative References
• Employee sign off section
• Review & Monitoring  

For works carried out on a regular basis a generic SWMS may be prepared and used for those work activities.

Remember: The content of the SWMS should be refined over time and include consultation with workers and other persons conducting a business or undertaking. Prior to each new activity, the SWMS must be reviewed and revised to ensure it applies to the high risk construction work and the actual site you are working at.