This 10-page Heavy Lifting Using Forklift, Jibs and Slings Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides the common required safety controls and hazard management strategies for lifting heavy loads using forklifts, jib attachments, and slings. Developed by WHS experts, this template is pre-filled, ready to use, and helps you meet your WHS obligations while maintaining compliance with Australian workplace safety laws.
 
The SWMS is suitable for use across all Australian states and territories and is fully editable in Microsoft Word, allowing you to easily customise it with your company name, logo, site-specific details, and project information.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is designed for businesses and contractors involved in heavy lifting and material handling, including:
Construction companies
Warehousing and logistics businesses
Manufacturing and industrial facilities
Engineering and fabrication workshops
Mining and resource operations
Equipment hire companies
Any business performing heavy lifting with forklifts, jibs, and slings
 
What This SWMS Covers
This SWMS details safe work practices, potential hazards, and control measures, including:
Conducting site-specific risk assessments and pre-start planning before any lifting operations
Pre-operational forklift inspections and completion of inspection checklists
Ensuring forklift operators hold a valid licence and are competent to operate lifting attachments
Selecting, inspecting, and tagging forklifts, jibs, slings, shackles, and lifting gear before use
Assessing load weights and ensuring rated capacities (SWL/WLL) are not exceeded
Establishing exclusion zones, barricading, and using signage to restrict unauthorised access
Checking operating area clearances and travel paths for potential obstacles, overhead hazards, and power lines
Correct attachment and securement of jibs and slings to ensure load stability
Using hand signals between doggers and forklift operators to maintain safe communication
Preventing load swings by keeping hooks centred and lifting slowly and steadily
Prohibiting workers from walking under suspended loads and leaving loads unattended
Operating forklifts at creeping speeds and keeping loads as low as safely possible
Safe procedures for forklift shutdown, including removing lifting attachments and securing equipment
Emergency response procedures for incidents, injuries, or equipment failures
 
What’s Included in Your Template
HRCW (High-Risk Construction Work) selection table
Risk assessment guidelines and risk rating calculator
Step-by-step safe work procedures and control measures
Comprehensive list of possible hazards and associated controls
PPE requirements checklist
Plant and equipment list
Relevant legislation, regulations, codes, and standards
Worker sign-off and acknowledgement page
 
 
This SWMS template for Heavy Lifting Using Forklift, Jibs and Slings is an invaluable tool for quickly and effectively documenting your WHS systems. Designed for swift editing and site-specific customisation, it adapts seamlessly to your operational needs - making it an essential part of your workplace safety management toolkit.
 
Get your Heavy Lifting Using Forklift, Jibs and Slings SWMS today and start using it instantly! Save time, stay safe, and help your business remain fully compliant with WHS regulations.