Page 27 - RIIWHS204E Learner Guide

RIIWHS204E-Work safely at heights

COMPLYING WITH SAFE WORK METHODS

Complying with safe work methods includes referring to Safe Work Method Statements.

Accessing the SWMS for your site will be the best way to determine the tasks that you will be
required to do in your role. Your supervisor may also issue instructions about the tasks
which should also be followed when provided.

SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENTS (SWMS)

The primary purpose of a SWMS is to enable supervisors, workers and any other
persons at the workplace to understand the requirements that have been established to
carry out the high -risk construction work in a safe and heal thy manner. It sets out the
work activities in a logical sequence and identifies hazards and describes control
measures.

Most worksites require Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) to be completed prior to
any dangerous work commencing. A SWMS details all the steps required to perform
each task and identifies and controls any risks associated with those tasks. Generally,
this document will be created by the employer in conjunction with workers.

SWMS may also be referred to as Safe Work Procedures (SWP), Safe Operating
Procedures (SOP) or a Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

The person responsible for carrying out the high-risk construction work is best placed to
prepare the SWMS in consultation with workers who will be directly engaged in the Work.
Generally, this means a SWMS is prepared by the builder for their workers, or by the
subcontractor for their workers and themselves.

The principal contractor, builder and subcontractors should consult with each other to
determine who is in the best position to prepare the SWMS.

Managers, contractors, leading hands and workers should all be involved in developing a
SWMS. Consulting workers is important so they understand the detail of the SWMS and
what they are required to do to implement and maintain risk controls. Sharing information
and using the knowledge and experience of workers will help make sure the work is
performed in accordance with the SWMS.

If there is a Health and Safety Representative at the workplace they should also be
consulted when developing a SWMS.

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