SWMS - Solar PV Installer Example
Example document for SWMS - Solar PV Installer. Use this as a reference when creating your own.
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Document: SWMS - Solar PV Installer
Example Document
Last updated 7/30/2026
SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS)
Company/Business Name: Solar Solutions Pty Ltd ABN: 12 345 678 901 Date Prepared: 12/10/2023
1. JOB DETAILS
Project/Job Address: 42 Sunshine Blvd, Brendale QLD 4500 Client Name: John Smith Date of Work: 15/10/2023 to 16/10/2023 Principal Contractor/PCBU: Solar Solutions Pty Ltd Description of Work: Installation of 6.6kW Solar PV system including 18 x 370W panels, 5kW inverter, and roof mounting on tiled roof.
2. TASK BREAKDOWN & HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
| High Risk Construction Activity (HRCA) | Specific Tasks | Hazards | Risks | Initial Risk Rating (L/M/H) | Control Measures (Hierarchy of Controls) | Residual Risk Rating (L/M/H) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Working at Heights | Walking on tiled roof, drilling for brackets | Slipping on tiles, falling off edge | Death, fractures | H | 1. Elimination: N/A.<br>2. Engineering: Roof ladder (crawling board) used across tiles. Temporary anchor point installed on opposite ridge. Static line set up.<br>3. Admin: Weather check conducted. No work if wet. SWMS briefed.<br>4. PPE: Full harness connected to static line at all times. | M |
| Electrical Work | Terminating DC strings at isolator | DC Arc flash, shock | Burns, death | H | 1. Elimination: Panels covered with opaque blankets during connection.<br>2. Engineering: Use insulated screwdrivers.<br>3. Admin: Connect strings one at a time. Keep face away from terminals.<br>4. PPE: Safety glasses, Category 1 gloves. | L |
| Manual Handling | Lifting 20kg panels up ladder | Back strain, dropping panel on person | Injury, cuts | M | 1. Elimination: N/A.<br>2. Engineering: Use a roof hoist/pulley system.<br>3. Admin: Two person lift required. Guide at top, lifter at bottom.<br>4. PPE: Gloves. | L |
3. INSPECTION & CHECKLISTS
- Fall Protection Equipment: Yes - Harnesses inspected by J. Bloggs 10/10/2023. Anchor points certified by EngCert.
- Electrical Test Equipment: Yes - Multimeter calibrated and tagged.
- Power Tools: Yes - Cordless drill checked and tagged.
4. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
- Safety Helmet
- Safety Glasses
- High Visibility Shirt
- Steel Cap Boots
- Gloves
- Harness
5. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Nearest Hospital: Prince Charles Hospital - 07 1234 5678 Emergency Services: 000 Site Assembly Point: Front driveway near letterbox
6. SIGN-OFF
| Name | Signature | Date |
|---|---|---|
| J. Smith | JS | 12/10/2023 |
| M. Jones | MJ | 12/10/2023 |
Principal Contractor Acceptance:
| Name | Signature | Date |
|---|---|---|
| B. Brown | BB | 12/10/2023 |
Notes
This example shows a simplified view for a residential job. The Hazard Identification table demonstrates the hierarchy of controls applied. Note the specific mention of a roof ladder and a hoist, which are common controls for residential solar. The sign-off includes the PCBU acceptance.
About this Example
Part of the SWMS - Solar PV Installer document collection
Document Type
SWMS - Solar PV Installer
Use this SWMS for all high-risk construction work involving the installation of solar photovoltaic systems on residential, commercial, and industrial roofs.