This 9-page Manual Excavation Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides the typical safety controls and potential hazards associated with manual digging and excavation tasks on construction and industrial sites.
 
It’s pre-filled, ready to use, and created by experienced WHS professionals to help your business meet WHS obligations and maintain compliance. This document is suitable for use in all Australian states and territories, and is fully editable in Microsoft Word format - making it easy to add your company name, logo, and site-specific details.
 
Whether you're preparing trenches, locating buried services, or reinstating surfaces post-excavation, this SWMS template is a practical and professional tool for reducing risk and ensuring site safety.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is ideal for:
Civil and construction contractors
Utility service providers
Landscaping and fencing businesses
Plumbing and drainage companies
Environmental consultants and surveyors
Maintenance and facility management providers
Any business involved in hand digging or manual groundworks
 
What This SWMS Covers
Conducting pre-start vehicle checks and safely travelling to site
Site arrival protocols, including sign-in and PPE compliance
Risk assessment and hazard identification prior to excavation
Selecting locations for manual excavation and identifying underground and overhead services
Safe use of hand digging tools and PPE
Procedures for safely handling obstructions or unknown materials
Manual handling and backfilling procedures to minimise strain and prevent injury
Managing heat stress and hydration during hot weather
Working in proximity to plant, traffic, and open excavations
Emergency response actions for injuries, incidents, or service strikes
 
What’s Included in Your Template
HRCW Selection Table (if applicable to your scope of work)
Comprehensive risk assessment matrix and risk rating calculator
Detailed step-by-step procedures and hazard controls
PPE requirements
Plant and equipment checklist
Worker sign-off page with qualification verification
Relevant WHS legislation and codes of practice (free bonus checklist included)
 
 
This SWMS template for Manual Excavation is an invaluable tool for quickly and effectively documenting your WHS systems. Designed for swift editing and customisation, it adapts easily to your operational needs - making it an essential part of your safety management toolkit.
 
Get your Manual Excavation SWMS today and start using it instantly! Save time, stay safe, and help your business stay compliant with our expert-developed templates.