What is a SWMS?

A SWMS - Safe Work Method Statement - is a document that sets out the high-risk construction work to be carried out, the hazards that come with it, and the control measures you'll use to keep people safe. It also says how those controls will be put in place, monitored and reviewed.

In plain English: it's the written plan for how a high-risk job will be done safely - agreed before the work starts, and followed by everyone on the tools.

What goes in a SWMS?

A compliant SWMS sets out:

• The high-risk construction work being done
• The job broken into steps, in order
• The hazards and risks for each step
• The control measures (using the hierarchy of control)
• How the controls will be implemented, monitored and reviewed
• The plant, equipment, PPE, qualifications and permits needed
• A worker sign-on so everyone confirms they've read and understood it

Good SWMS also reference the relevant legislation, Codes of Practice and Australian Standards for the task.

Who has to prepare it?

The PCBU (person conducting the business or undertaking) doing the high-risk work prepares the SWMS, in consultation with the workers who'll carry it out. It must be done before the work starts, kept on site, and followed.

Do you always need one?

No - a SWMS is only legally required for High-Risk Construction Work. There are 18 activities that trigger it. See the full list in our "Do I need a SWMS?" guide →

How long do you keep it?

Keep the SWMS until the work is finished. If it relates to a notifiable incident, keep it for at least two years. Review and update it whenever the work, site, plant or crew change, after any incident, or when the law changes.

Don't want to write one from scratch?

That's exactly what we do. Our SWMS library covers 200 trades and high-risk activities - each one professionally written, WHS-aligned and ready for your logo. Or learn how to fill one in properly →