Grounds Maintenance (General) Safe Work Method Statement
 
Introduction: 
This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is specifically tailored for the broad scope of activities involved in grounds maintenance. It provides a structured approach for businesses to document common hazards and safety controls effectively within their operations. The template is crafted to be comprehensive yet flexible, allowing for easy customisation to align with specific business and regulatory needs. It is an essential tool for businesses engaged in landscaping, facilities management, or any services requiring regular grounds upkeep.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
Manual Handling: Risks of sprains and strains from lifting heavy items. Control measures include proper lifting techniques and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Power Tools and Garden Machinery: Risks include entanglement, cuts, and impact injuries. Controls involve pre-use checks, proper maintenance, and ensuring all safety guards are in place.
Noise Exposure: Risks from operating noisy machinery. Controls include the use of quieter equipment, isolation practices, and protective hearing gear.
Chemical Handling: Exposure to fuels and chemicals. Controls include using appropriate PPE, handling in well-ventilated areas, and adhering to Safety Data Sheets (SDS) guidelines.
Electrical Hazards: Risk of electrocution from faulty equipment or improper use of electrical tools. Controls include regular inspection of tools, use of Residual Current Devices (RCD), and proper cable management.
 
Additional Resources:
Included with this SWMS is a free copy of the Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List.
 
Key Features: 
This SWMS template for General Grounds Maintenance is designed to streamline the documentation of safety procedures, making it an accessible and quick tool for integrating safety practices into daily operations. The template is easy to use and customise, and is aimed at fostering a safe working environment.