Safe Work Method Statement (Non-High-Risk)
A Safe Work Method Statement (Non-High-Risk) is a written document that outlines the high risk work activities, hazards, and control measures for tasks that are not classified as high risk construction work under the WHS Regulations. It helps PCBUs meet their primary duty of care under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 to ensure worker safety.
A written plan that outlines the steps for doing a job safely. It identifies hazards and sets out control measures for work that is not classified as high risk.
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About this Document
A Safe Work Method Statement or SWMS is a vital document for many Australian tradespeople and small businesses. It helps you manage health and safety at work. While you often hear about SWMS in the context of high risk construction work, they are also incredibly useful for other tasks. This guide explains everything you need to know about a Safe Work Method Statement for non high risk work. We will cover what it is, when you need it, and how to create one that complies with Australian law. This information is relevant to business owners, contractors, and workers across all states and territories. Work health and safety laws in Australia aim to protect everyone at the workplace. The primary law is the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. This Act applies in most states and territories through nationally harmonised laws. Some states like Victoria and Western Australia have their own specific Acts, but the duties are very similar. The WHS Act imposes a duty on a person conducting a business or undertaking or PCBU. As a tradesperson or business owner, you are a PCBU. You must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers and other people. A SWMS is one of the best tools to help you meet this duty. It is not just paperwork. It is a plan that helps you think through the work before you start. A standard Safe Work Method Statement for non high risk work follows a logical process. It lists the job steps. It finds the hazards. It rates the risk. It describes how you will control the risk. The difference between a high risk SWMS and a non high risk SWMS is important. The WHS Regulations explicitly state that a SWMS must be prepared for high risk construction work. This includes things like work on a telecommunication tower, work in or near a shaft or trench deeper than 1.5 metres, or work involving asbestos. If you are doing this type of work, you must follow the strict rules for high risk construction SWMS. However, many businesses use a SWMS format for other tasks because it is good practice. It creates a clear standard for how the team should work. It helps train new staff. It shows clients that you take safety seriously. Principal contractors and large companies often ask for a SWMS before they let you on site. Even if the law does not strictly demand it, having a professional SWMS can help you win work. It acts as a ticket to enter many workplaces. To create a compliant document, you must consult your workers. The WHS Act says you must consult with workers who carry out work for you about matters that affect their health and safety. Do not write the SWMS in the office alone. Talk to the people on the tools. They know the real risks. They will have practical ideas on how to control them. If you involve your team, they are more likely to follow the plan. When you write the SWMS, break the job down into small steps. Do not be too vague. Instead of saying 'Install flooring', say 'Remove old carpet', 'Prepare subfloor', 'Apply adhesive', 'Lay new planks'. For each step, ask what could go wrong. Could you trip over the carpet? Could you hurt your back lifting heavy packs? Are the fumes from the glue dangerous? Once you identify the hazard, you must assess the risk. Think about how bad the injury could be and how likely it is. This helps you decide which controls are needed. The hierarchy of controls is the standard way to manage risks. You must work through this list from top to bottom. The most effective control is to eliminate the hazard. Can you do the job in a different way to remove the risk completely? If you cannot eliminate it, you must minimise it. Use engineering controls like guards or mechanical aids. Use administrative controls like signage, training, and safe work procedures. The last resort is Personal Protective Equipment or PPE. PPE is important but it is the least effective control because it does not remove the hazard. It just protects the person if things go wrong. A good SWMS will list specific controls for each hazard. Do not just write 'Wear PPE'. Be specific. Write 'Wear safety glasses', 'Wear cut resistant gloves', 'Use hearing protection'. Make sure the controls match the hazard. You also need to list the statutory requirements. This means listing the laws, codes of practice, and Australian Standards that apply to the work. For example, if you are working at heights, you might refer to AS 1891.4 for fall arrest systems. If you are using electrical equipment, you might refer to AS/NZS 3760 for testing and tagging. You must also list the tools and plant you will use. Include the safety features of that equipment. Do not forget emergency procedures. What happens if there is an accident? Where is the first aid kit? Who is the first aid officer? How do you contact emergency services? You must include these details in the document. Once the SWMS is written, it is not finished. It is a living document. You must keep it accessible. If the work changes, the SWMS must change. If you start a new activity that was not in the original plan, stop and update the document. The WHS Regulations require that workers understand the SWMS. You must brief them on the contents before they start work. This is often called a toolbox talk or pre-start meeting. Keep a record of who attended the meeting. If an inspector visits your site, they will ask to see your SWMS. They will check if it is specific to the site and the task. They will check if you have consulted with workers. They will check if the control measures are actually in place. If you do not have a SWMS when one is required, or if your SWMS is not adequate, you can face heavy fines. Safe Work Australia is the national policy body. They publish model Codes of Practice that provide guidance on how to manage risks. While these codes are not law in themselves, they are evidence of what is reasonably practicable. Courts can refer to them when deciding if a business has done enough to comply with the WHS Act. You should use the relevant Code of Practice to help you draft your SWMS. The Fair Work Act 2009 also intersects with safety. If a worker refuses to do unsafe work, they have protections under the Fair Work Act. A clear SWMS helps define what safe work looks like. It reduces confusion. It helps everyone know their responsibilities. From a tax perspective, spending money on safety is usually a deductible business expense. The Australian Taxation Office or ATO allows you to claim deductions for expenses incurred in running your business. This includes the cost of PPE, safety equipment, and training. Keeping good records like SWMS helps you prove these expenses if you are audited. If you are a company director, you have duties under the Corporations Act 2001 administered by ASIC. You must exercise your care and diligence. Ignoring safety can lead to personal liability for directors. A SWMS is part of a system that shows you are taking your duties seriously. Common mistakes to avoid include copying and pasting a generic document from the internet. Every worksite is different. Every job is different. A generic SWMS is often useless. Inspectors call these 'administrative controls' that do nothing to manage real risk. You must make the document specific to your job. Another mistake is filing the document away and never looking at it again. The SWMS must be at the workplace. Workers must be able to read it. Another error is treating the document as a tick and flick exercise. Just writing it down does not make the work safe. You must actually do the things listed in the controls. If the SWMS says you must use a spotter for the excavator, you must use a spotter. If you fail to implement the controls, you are breaching the WHS Act. Small businesses often worry about the time it takes to write these statements. However, the time spent planning saves time and money later by preventing injuries. Injuries lead to workers compensation claims, higher insurance premiums, and downtime. Safety is good for business. It creates a professional reputation. Clients want to hire contractors who go home safe at the end of the day. In summary, a Safe Work Method Statement for non high risk work is a practical tool for managing safety. It helps you meet your legal duties under the WHS Act 2011. It protects your workers, your business, and your reputation. By following the steps in this guide, you can create a compliant and effective SWMS. Identify the work. Consult your team. Assess the risks. Apply the hierarchy of controls. Monitor and review the work. This approach will help you build a safer workplace for everyone.
Key Facts
- A Safe Work Method Statement is not legally required for non-high-risk work unless requested by a site principal, but is a best practice tool for meeting WHS duties.— Safe Work Australia Model Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks
- Under Section 19 of the WHS Act 2011, a PCBU must ensure the health and safety of workers so far as is reasonably practicable, which includes planning safe work methods.— Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth)
- SWMS must be accessible to workers at the workplace and explained to them before work commences.— Safe Work Australia
- Control measures must follow the hierarchy of controls, prioritizing elimination over PPE.— Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth)
- Workers have the right to cease unsafe work under section 84 of the WHS Act 2011.— Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth)
Sources
Required Sections
Company Details
Information about the business performing the work
Company Details
You must complete this section with the most current business information before work starts. This section establishes who is responsible for the work and the safety of the workers on site.
Business Name Enter the full legal name of the trading entity. If you operate as a sole trader, use your personal name. If you operate under a registered business name, include that name alongside the individual or company name. This identifies the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU).
Australian Business Number (ABN) Enter your 11 digit ABN. An active ABN is mandatory for all businesses operating in Australia. You can verify your number on the Australian Business Register. Accurate ABN details are essential for tax and insurance purposes.
Address Provide the registered principal place of business. Do not put the site address here. This should be your office, depot, or home address where official correspondence is sent.
Street Address Suburb State Postcode
Contact Details You must nominate a primary contact person for all safety matters. This person should have the authority to stop work if safety standards are not met. Ensure this person is available during working hours.
Name Position Phone Number Email Address
Legal Requirements The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act) imposes a primary duty of care on the PCBU. This means you must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers while they are at work. Providing accurate company details fulfills part of your obligation to be transparent about who is managing the risks at the workplace.
In many Australian states and territories, including New South Wales and Victoria, a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is required for high risk construction work. Even though this document is for non high risk activities, maintaining accurate records is best practice and demonstrates compliance with the Code of Practice: Construction Work.
If a SafeWork inspector requests this document, they must be able to identify the business immediately. Incomplete or false information can result in on the spot fines or legal notices.
Signatory The person completing this form must hold a senior role within the company, such as a Director, Manager, or Supervisor. By signing below, you confirm the details are true and correct.
Name Signature Date
Project Details
Specifics of the job site and the client
Project Details
Project Name Write a clear description of the job. Do not just write "House renovation". Be specific about the scope of work so anyone reading this statement understands the task immediately. For example, write "Bathroom demolition and tiling at 42 Smith Street" or "Installation of new air conditioning unit at Jones Office". This clarity helps if you need to refer to this document during an inspection or incident investigation.
Site Address Record the full street address, suburb, state, and postcode. If the work is not at a fixed address, such as roadworks or a mobile job, write the specific location name or describe the area. For example, write "Corner of Main Street and High Street, Bendigo" or "Mining Site B, Leinster". If the work is happening in a remote location, include the nearest town. This is vital for emergency services if they need to find the site.
Client Name Write the full name of the person or business paying for the work. If the client is a homeowner, write their full name. If the client is a business, write the registered company name. For example, write "ABC Construction Pty Ltd" or "Mr John Smith". This confirms who has authorised the work and who is responsible for the site. Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) or equivalent state legislation, clients have duties to consult and coordinate with contractors. Recording this information ensures you know who to contact regarding site access or safety concerns.
Date Write the date this document is created or reviewed. You should review this statement before work starts if conditions change or if a significant period has passed since it was written. The Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks states that you must review control measures so far as is reasonably practicable. A dated record proves you have assessed the risks specific to this time and place. If the project runs for several months, keep the original date but update the review date to show the document is current.
Job Description
A clear scope of the work to be done
Enter a description of the specific work to be performed. You must clearly outline the nature, scope, and sequence of tasks to ensure all workers understand the job requirements. Start by stating the exact location of the worksite and the physical address. Define the primary objective of the job, such as installation, maintenance, repair, or demolition. List the specific tools, plant, and equipment required for the task, including powered tools and vehicles.
Break the work down into logical steps. Describe the start-up procedures, the main activities, and the shut-down or clean-up phases. Identify any manual handling tasks, such as lifting heavy materials, and note the weight of objects where possible. If working at heights or near electrical sources, specify these details clearly. Mention the number of workers involved and the estimated duration of the job.
Your description must align with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011. Under the Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks, you must identify all reasonably foreseeable hazards. Your description serves as the foundation for this risk assessment process.
You must also reference the Code of Practice: Construction Work if your tasks fall under the definition of construction work. This code requires specific planning for high risk construction activities. Although this is a Non-High-Risk SWMS, you must still consider site specific conditions.
If the work involves electrical equipment, reference the AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules. For work involving asbestos, reference the Code of Practice: How to Safely Remove Asbestos. If mobile plant is on site, consider the requirements of the AS/NZS 4760 series for pedestrian operated machinery.
Be specific about the environment. Mention if the work is indoors, outdoors, in a confined space, or in a public area. If the public has access, describe the traffic management and barricade requirements. Include details about weather conditions if working outdoors.
Do not use vague terms like "general repairs." You must provide enough detail so that a worker unfamiliar with the site can read the description and understand exactly what they will be doing and what risks they might face. This information is critical for establishing safe work methods and selecting the appropriate personal protective equipment. Review this description before work commences and update it if the scope of work changes.
Hazards and Controls
The core risk assessment table
Hazards and Controls
The table below details the specific risks associated with this work and the controls required to manage them. All workers must review these controls before starting work. This process follows the hierarchy of controls required by the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and the Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks.
| Job Step | Potential Hazards | Risk Rating | Control Measures | Person Responsible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Site setup and access | Slips, trips and falls on uneven ground. Moving plant and vehicles. | Medium | 1. Conduct site induction and walk through.<br>2. Erect warning signage and bunting around work zone.<br>3. Keep walkways clear of debris and cables.<br>4. Wear high visibility clothing and steel capped boots. | Site Supervisor |
| Manual handling of materials | Musculoskeletal injury (strain) to back or shoulders. | Medium | 1. Assess weight of load before lifting.<br>2. Use mechanical aids (trolley, forklift) where available.<br>3. Use safe lifting techniques (bend knees, keep load close).<br>4. Ask for assistance with heavy or awkward loads. | All Workers |
| Using power tools | Electric shock, lacerations, dust inhalation, noise. | High | 1. Inspect tools and leads for damage before use (tag and test).<br>2. Use residual current devices (RCD) on power leads.<br>3. Wear appropriate PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection and dust mask.<br>4. Ensure emergency stop buttons are functional. | All Workers |
| Working at heights (under 2m) | Falling from ladders or platforms. | Medium | 1. Select correct ladder for the task (industrial rated).<br>2. Secure ladder at top and bottom.<br>3. Maintain three points of contact.<br>4. Do not stand on top two rungs. | All Workers |
| Waste removal and cleanup | Cuts from sharp objects, exposure to hazardous substances. | Low | 1. Sweep and remove debris regularly to prevent trip hazards.<br>2. Place sharp objects in designated puncture-proof containers.<br>3. Wash hands after handling waste material. | All Workers |
Important Information for Workers and Officers
Understanding the Risk Rating
The risk rating in the table is determined before applying control measures. We assess the likelihood of an incident happening against the potential consequence. This aligns with the Safe Work Australia model Code of Practice. If a risk rating remains High or Extreme after applying controls, work must stop immediately until we introduce further controls to reduce the risk to an acceptable level.
Hierarchy of Controls
We do not just rely on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Australian law requires us to use the Hierarchy of Controls. We aim to eliminate the risk first. If that is not possible, we substitute the hazard, isolate people from the hazard, or use engineering controls. We use administrative controls and PPE only to support higher level controls. For example, rather than just telling you to wear a mask (PPE), we will use dust extraction (engineering) or low dust materials (substitution).
Your Responsibilities
Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, everyone on site has a duty.
- Workers: You must take reasonable care for your own health and safety. You must follow all safe work procedures and wear the PPE provided. If you identify a new hazard, you must report it to the Site Supervisor immediately.
- Business Owners and Officers: We must provide and maintain a work environment that is safe and without risks to health. This includes providing the necessary tools, equipment, and training to complete the job safely.
Consultation is a legal requirement. If you are unsure about any control measure listed in this table or feel it is not practical for the site conditions, speak up. We will review the controls together to ensure safety on the job.
PPE Checklist
List of personal protective equipment required
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Checklist
Review the specific tasks for this job and tick the boxes to confirm the required PPE is available, fits correctly, and is in good working order before work starts.
[ ] Safety Helmet or Hard Hat [ ] Safety Glasses or Goggles [ ] Clear Safety Glasses [ ] Tinted Safety Glasses [ ] Prescription Safety Glasses [ ] Face Shield [ ] Welding Helmet [ ] Dust Mask (P1 or P2) [ ] Respirator (Half or Full Face) [ ] Disposable Earplugs [ ] Reusable Earplugs [ ] Earmuffs [ ] High Visibility Safety Vest [ ] Long Sleeve High Visibility Shirt [ ] High Visibility Wet Weather Jacket [ ] Safety Boots (Steel Toe/Midsole) [ ] Gumboots [ ] Safety Shoes (Non-slip) [ ] Cut Resistant Gloves [ ] Leather Gloves [ ] Rubber Gloves (Chemical resistant) [ ] Welding Gloves [ ] Disposable Gloves [ ] Heat Resistant Apron [ ] Welding Apron [ ] Disposable Coveralls [ ] Sun Protection (Sunscreen 50+ and Broad Brim Hat) [ ] Knee Pads [ ] Safety Harness [ ] Fall Arrest Lanyard [ ] Traffic Cone/Barricade (For public safety) [ ] First Aid Kit [ ] Fire Extinguisher
Selection and Use of PPE
Using Personal Protective Equipment is a critical part of managing workplace health and safety. Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act), a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) must provide workers with suitable PPE that is appropriate for the nature of the work and the associated hazards. If you are a contractor or small business owner, you must ensure this gear is available and maintained. Workers also have a legal duty under the WHS Act to wear the PPE provided and to follow all reasonable instruction regarding its use.
When selecting equipment, you must refer to relevant Australian Standards. For example, safety footwear should comply with AS/NZS 2210.1 and head protection with AS/NZS 1801. Eyewear should meet AS/NZS 1337 for medium impact protection. Using gear that meets these standards ensures the items have been tested and rated for specific Australian conditions.
PPE must fit the worker properly. Loose or uncomfortable equipment often leads to workers removing it or adjusting it incorrectly, which increases the risk of injury. Inspect all items before every shift. Look for cracks in helmets, frayed straps on harnesses, or separated soles on boots. If any item is damaged, do not use it. Tag it out and replace it immediately.
Remember that PPE is the lowest level of control on the hierarchy of control. It should be used to minimise risk after you have tried to eliminate the hazard, substitute the hazard, isolate the hazard, or use engineering controls. However, for many trades, it remains a daily necessity.
Finally, consider storage and maintenance. PPE must be stored in a clean, dry area away from direct sunlight and chemicals. Respirators require regular cleaning and filter changes to remain effective against dust and fumes. By keeping your equipment in top condition, you ensure it will protect you when it matters most.
Worker Sign Off
Acknowledgment of understanding the SWMS
Worker Sign Off
Every worker listed in this table must read and understand the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) before starting work. Signing this document confirms you have been consulted about the hazards and risks associated with the job. It proves you understand the control measures required to do the work safely.
Signing off is not just a formality. Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act), you have a legal duty to take reasonable care for your own health and safety. You must also ensure your actions do not adversely affect the health and safety of others. By signing, you agree to follow all safety controls listed in this statement. If you do not understand a part of this document, or you feel a safety risk is missing, do not sign. You must speak to your supervisor or the PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) immediately. The WHS Regulations require that workers be trained and informed. This signature log serves as evidence that the business has met this obligation for this specific task.
Tradespeople and business owners must keep this signed document accessible while the work is carried out. If a Work Health and Safety (WHS) inspector visits the site, they will likely ask to see this document. Failure to produce a signed SWMS for high risk construction work can result in significant fines. Even though this is a non-high-risk statement, maintaining a record of consultation and understanding demonstrates good due diligence.
If the work conditions change or new hazards appear on site, work must stop. The SWMS must be reviewed and updated. All workers must read and sign the updated version before work continues. Do not sign on behalf of another person. Each individual must sign for themselves to confirm they personally understand the risks.
Worker Acknowledgement Table
| Printed Name | Signature | Date |
|---|---|---|
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Safe Work Method Statement (Non-High-Risk)?
When do I need a Safe Work Method Statement (Non-High-Risk)?
Is a Safe Work Method Statement (Non-High-Risk) legally required in Australia?
Who is responsible for writing a Safe Work Method Statement?
Can I use a generic Safe Work Method Statement for every job?
What is the difference between a SWMS and a JSA?
How often should I review a Safe Work Method Statement?
Do I need to keep the SWMS on site?
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This document is for informational purposes and serves as a general guide.