A safe working method statement (SWMS) is a document that outlines the specific steps that need to be taken to carry out a task safely. It should be developed for any task that has the potential to cause harm to people or property.
The SWMS should be written in a clear and concise manner, and it should be easy to understand by anyone who is involved in the task. It should include the following information:
Your **safe working method statement template** should include the following information:
Who is responsible for what?
The SWMS should clearly identify who is responsible for each step of the task. This includes the person or persons who will be carrying out the task, the person who will be supervising the task, and the person who will be responsible for ensuring that the task is carried out safely.
The SWMS should also identify the training and experience that each person involved in the task must have. This will ensure that everyone involved in the task is competent to carry it out safely.
The SWMS should also include a list of the personal protective equipment (PPE) that each person involved in the task must wear. This PPE will help to protect the person from any hazards that may be present during the task.
What hazards could occur?
The SWMS should identify all of the hazards that could potentially occur during the task. These hazards could include things like electrical hazards, chemical hazards, physical hazards, and biological hazards.
Once the hazards have been identified, the SWMS should assess the risks associated with each hazard. This assessment will help to determine the likelihood of the hazard occurring and the severity of the harm that could be caused by the hazard.
What steps need to be taken to control the risks?
The SWMS should outline the steps that need to be taken to control the risks associated with each hazard. These steps may include things like using engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
The SWMS should also include a plan for monitoring the effectiveness of the risk control measures. This plan will help to ensure that the risk control measures are working effectively and that the task is being carried out safely.
Conclusion
A **safe working method statement template** is an important tool for ensuring that tasks are carried out safely. By following the steps outlined in the SWMS, you can help to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
Remember to review your SWMS regularly and update it as needed. This will help to ensure that the SWMS is always up-to-date and that it reflects the current hazards and risks associated with the task.
