This 10-page Manual Handling Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides the typical safety controls and possible hazards associated with lifting, carrying, and moving loads across a variety of workplaces. It is designed to help identify, assess, and reduce the risk of manual handling injuries such as sprains, strains, and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
 
The SWMS is pre-filled, ready to use, and created by WHS experts to help your business stay compliant with Australian Work Health and Safety legislation. It’s suitable for use in all states and territories, and comes in a fully editable Microsoft Word format, making it easy to customise with your business name, logo, and site-specific details.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is ideal for:
Construction companies
Manufacturing and industrial businesses
Warehousing and logistics providers
Trades performing repetitive lifting or moving of goods
Facility and property maintenance teams
Agricultural and farming operators
Cleaning companies and service providers
 
What This SWMS Covers
Identifying and assessing manual handling hazards before work begins
Ensuring workers are trained, certified, and inducted appropriately
Assessing workers' physical capabilities and risks related to age or injury
Handling awkward or heavy loads using correct lifting techniques
Selecting mechanical lifting aids for loads over 16kg
Ensuring safe access routes free of trip hazards or unstable surfaces
Using PPE such as gloves, safety boots, and eye protection
Step-by-step safe lifting and carrying techniques, including team lifting
Daily inspections and proper maintenance of lifting equipment
End-of-day procedures to reduce residual risks
Emergency response protocols for accidents or equipment failure
Guidelines for revising the SWMS if site conditions or risks change
 
What’s Included in Your Template
Risk assessment guidelines and risk matrix
Hierarchy of controls for managing manual handling risks
Step-by-step procedures with associated hazards and control measures
HRCW Selection Table (where applicable)
PPE requirements specific to manual handling
Plant and equipment checklist
Site-specific hazard section
Worker sign-off sheet
 
This SWMS template for Manual Handling 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 Handling SWMS today and start using it instantly! Save time, stay safe, and help your business stay compliant with our expert-developed templates.