SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS)

Company Name: [INSERT COMPANY NAME] ABN: [INSERT ABN] Address: [INSERT ADDRESS]

Project/Job Address: [INSERT SITE ADDRESS] Date of Preparation: [DD/MM/YYYY]

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1. JOB DETAILS

Activity: Ceiling Insulation Installation

Description of Work: [Insert description, e.g., Installation of fiberglass batts in residential roof space, removing old insulation, accessing roof via manhole and ladder.]

Site Specifics:

• Type of building: [e.g., Single storey, Double storey]
• Access points: [e.g., Ceiling manhole, Skylight]
• Roof pitch: [e.g., Low pitch, Steep pitch]

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2. PERSONS RESPONSIBLE

Principal Contractor/PCBU Representative: [NAME] Supervisor: [NAME] Mobile Number: [PHONE NUMBER]

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3. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT

Step / Task	Hazard	Potential Harm	Risk Before Controls (H/M/L)	Risk After Controls (H/M/L)	Control Measures (Hierarchy of Controls)
1. Pre-start Inspection & Setup	Contact with overhead electrical lines during access setup	Electrocution, Death	H	M	- Locate all overhead powerlines before work starts.<br>- Maintain minimum approach distances.<br>- Use spotter for mobile plant.
2. Accessing Roof Space (Manhole)	Falling from ladder	Musculoskeletal injury, Fractures	M	L	- Use industrial grade ladder in good condition.<br>- Tie off ladder at top and secure base.<br>- Maintain 3 points of contact.<br>- Do not carry loads up ladder. Use pulley or lift.
3. Working in Roof Cavity	Exposure to electrical cables and ceiling joists	Electric shock, Burns, Death	H	L	- Turn off main power at switchboard where possible.<br>- If power cannot be isolated, use non-contact voltage tester before touching cables.<br>- Treat all cables as live.<br>- Do not step on ceiling joists; use crawl boards.
4. Working in Roof Cavity	Heat Stress / Dehydration	Collapse, Heat stroke	M	L	- Schedule work for coolest part of day.<br>- Ensure adequate hydration (water provided).<br>- Take regular breaks in cool area.<br>- Monitor workers for signs of heat stress.
5. Handling Insulation Materials	Skin irritation, Eye irritation, Respiratory issues from fibres	Dermatitis, Asthma	M	L	- Wear long disposable coveralls.<br>- Wear P2 respirator mask.<br>- Wear safety goggles and gloves.<br>- Wash hands and face before eating/drinking.
6. Using Insulation Knife	Lacerations to hands	Cuts, Infection	M	L	- Use safety knives with retractable blades.<br>- Cut away from body.<br>- Wear cut-resistant gloves.
7. Working Near Skylights / Holes	Falling through roof void	Death, Serious injury	H	L	- Install temporary guardrails or covers over skylights.<br>- Do not walk on fragile roofing materials.<br>- Use fall arrest use if working near edge.
8. Manual Handling	Repetitive lifting, Awkward postures	Back injury	M	L	- Store insulation close to access point to minimize carrying.<br>- Use correct lifting techniques (bend knees, keep load close).<br>- Rotate tasks to avoid fatigue.

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4. SAFE WORK PROCEDURES

Pre-Work:

1. Conduct site toolbox talk using this SWMS.
2. Check weather conditions (do not work in roof space during extreme heat or storms).
3. Inspect PPE for damage.
4. Test electrical non-contact voltage tester.
5. Isolate mains power if agreed with client.

During Work:

1. Set up ladder safely on firm, level ground.
2. Access roof space and scan for hazards immediately.
3. Slide insulation packs into ceiling space rather than carrying them if possible.
4. Lay out crawl boards over ceiling joists to create a safe walking path.
5. Scan for electrical cables before cutting or placing insulation.
6. Fit insulation snugly between joists without compressing material excessively.
7. Keep work area clean of loose insulation offcuts to prevent tripping.

Post-Work:

1. Remove all waste materials from site.
2. Clean tools and PPE.
3. Wash hands and face thoroughly.
4. Restore power at switchboard if isolated.
5. Secure manhole.

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5. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Mandatory PPE for all workers:

• Safety Helmet (Hard Hat)
• Safety Boots (Steel cap)
• High Visibility Clothing
• Long sleeve disposable coveralls
• P2 Respirator Mask (Minimum)
• Safety Glasses / Goggles
• Gloves (Cut resistant or suitable for insulation handling)

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6. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Emergency Contacts:

• Emergency Services: 000
• Supervisor: [NAME] - [PHONE]
• Nearest Hospital: [INSERT HOSPITAL NAME]

First Aid:

• Location of First Aid Kit: [INSERT LOCATION, e.g., Site Office]
• Location of Eyewash Station: [INSERT LOCATION]

Incident Response:

1. Ensure area is safe to enter.
2. Administer first aid if trained.
3. Call 000 if serious injury or illness.
4. Notify Supervisor immediately.
5. Preserve the incident site (if safe to do so) for investigation.

Confined Space Rescue:

• Due to restricted access in roof cavities, ensure a second person is always outside the manhole to assist in an emergency.
• Do not enter the roof space to rescue a collapsed worker without proper assessment of atmospheric hazards (e.g., gas). Call emergency services.

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7. WORKER SIGN-OFF

I have read and understood the content of this SWMS. I agree to follow all safe work procedures and use the provided control measures and PPE.

Worker Name	Worker Signature	Date
[WORKER 1 NAME]	[SIGNATURE]	[DATE]
[WORKER 2 NAME]	[SIGNATURE]	[DATE]
[WORKER 3 NAME]	[SIGNATURE]	[DATE]

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8. REVIEW DATE

This SWMS must be reviewed:

• If there is a change to the work activity.
• If there is an incident or near miss.
• If new hazards are identified.
• Every 2 years or sooner as required.

Next Review Date: [INSERT DATE]