This 7-page Landscaping and Turfing Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides comprehensive safety controls and risk management measures for landscaping and turf installation activities. Developed by WHS experts, this pre-filled and ready-to-use template helps businesses meet their Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations while maintaining compliance with Australian regulations.
 
Suitable for use across all Australian states and territories, this SWMS is fully editable in Microsoft Word, allowing you to easily customise it with your company name, logo, project details, and site-specific information. It’s an essential tool for helping ensure safe, compliant, and efficient landscaping and turf-laying operations.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is ideal for businesses and contractors involved in:
Landscaping and turf installation companies
Gardening and grounds maintenance services
Civil works and outdoor construction projects
Property developers and housing contractors
Facilities and grounds management teams
Councils and government maintenance crews
 
What This SWMS Covers
This SWMS details hazards, risks, and control measures for landscaping and turfing tasks, including:
Site Preparation & Inspections – Pre-start checks, marking underground services, and ensuring safe access/egress
Clearing & Site Levels – Managing open trenches, debris removal, and ensuring safe use of tools
Using Plant & Machinery – Chainsaws, trimmers, compactors, loaders, and powered equipment
Portable Tools & Irrigation Equipment – Electrical safety, RCD protection, and maintaining tools in safe condition
Material Handling – Safe lifting, load distribution, and preventing back and muscle strain
Turf Laying & Planting – Correct manual handling techniques, safe use of wheelbarrows and lifting aids
Excavation & Cultivating – Trenching hazards, cave-in prevention, and safe equipment operation
Garden Edging & Paving – Cuts, dust inhalation, PPE use, and handling sand, cement, and brick saws
Chemical Handling – Safe storage, mixing, and application of fertilisers, herbicides, and pesticides
Working Outdoors – Managing sun exposure, hydration, and insect/spider/snake risks
Housekeeping & Site Safety – Maintaining clear walkways and minimising slip, trip, and fall hazards
Emergency Response – Procedures for accidents, fire safety, and first aid response
 
What’s Included in Your Template
Step-by-step safety procedures and controls
Comprehensive risk assessment guidelines and risk rating calculator
PPE requirements for landscaping and turfing activities
Plant and equipment checklist
Hazardous chemical handling protocols and SDS references
HRCW selection table 
Relevant WHS legislation, regulations, and codes of practice
Worker sign-off sheet to ensure compliance and understanding
 
 
This Landscaping and Turfing SWMS is an essential tool for helping manage workplace safety and ensuring compliance during landscaping and turf-laying activities. Designed for quick editing and site-specific customisation, it’s perfect for tenders, safety audits, and day-to-day operations.
 
Get your Landscaping and Turfing SWMS today and start using it instantly to help keep your team safe, your business compliant, and your projects running smoothly.