Ensure safe and efficient lawn maintenance with this Push Mower SWMS. This document outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with operating a push mower. It provides essential risk controls, hazard management strategies, and best practices to support compliance with Australian workplace safety standards while ensuring a safe work environment.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Equipment Safety & Pre-Start Inspections
Entanglement Hazards – Long hair, loose clothing, rags, cleaning brushes, and jewellery must be secured to prevent entanglement in moving mower parts.
Pre-Start Inspection – Operators must conduct a pre-start inspection to ensure the mower is in good working condition before use.
Appropriate Guarding – All safety guards must be in place and in good condition to prevent contact with moving parts.
2️⃣ Blade Safety & Impact Injuries
Blade Contact Risks – Operators must keep hands and body parts clear of the blades during operation and maintenance.
Guarding & Maintenance – Blade guards must be maintained and installed correctly at all times.
Pre-Start Checks – The mower must be inspected before use to ensure all components are secure and functioning correctly.
3️⃣ Noise Exposure & Hearing Protection
High Noise Levels – Where possible, quieter mowers should be used to reduce noise exposure.
Hearing Protection – Operators must wear appropriate hearing protection, such as earmuffs or earplugs, to minimise noise-related health risks.
Task Rotation – Operators should rotate tasks to limit continuous exposure to high noise levels.
4️⃣ Equipment Condition & Maintenance
Mower Failure Risks – Regular maintenance must be conducted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications to prevent mechanical failures.
Pre-Use Equipment Checks – Operators must conduct daily pre-start inspections to check for signs of wear, damage, or mechanical faults.
5️⃣ Housekeeping & Trip Hazards
Slip & Trip Hazards – The work area must be kept free of obstructions, waste materials, and spills to prevent slips and trips.
Storage of Tools & Equipment – All tools and spare materials must be stored appropriately to avoid creating trip hazards.
Work Area Cleanliness – Operators must ensure the area is clear of debris before commencing mowing operations.
6️⃣ Fuel Handling & Fire Safety
Inhalation & Skin Contact Risks – Workers must wear gloves when handling fuel to prevent skin irritation and avoid inhalation of fumes.
Refuelling Procedures – The mower must be turned off before refuelling, and all refuelling must take place in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
7️⃣ Environmental Changes & Hazard Reassessment
Changing Work Conditions – Work must cease immediately if environmental conditions change or new hazards emerge. Supervisors must reassess risks before resuming work.
Revised SWMS Communication – Any updates to the SWMS must be communicated to all workers before work continues. Supervisors must sign off on any revisions.
8️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Measures – Workers must be aware of the location and use of first aid kits and fire-fighting equipment. Emergency contact details must be readily available.
Incident Reporting & Work Cessation – All injuries, near misses, and unexpected hazards must be reported immediately. Work must stop until risks are reassessed and controlled.
Activation of Site Emergency Procedures – In case of a serious incident, emergency protocols must be followed, including contacting emergency services and securing the site.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Supports Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety standards for lawn maintenance and push mower operations.
Structured Risk Management – Identifies hazards, implements control measures, and provides step-by-step safety guidelines.
Emergency Readiness – Establishes clear procedures for incident response, fuel handling, and mechanical failures.
Fully Customisable – Can be tailored to specific mowing environments, equipment requirements, and industry standards.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Push Mower SWMS is essential for:
Groundskeeping & Landscaping Services
Facility Maintenance Teams
Parks & Recreation Workers
Local Councils & Property Maintenance Teams
 
Additional Resources:
Included with your purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List to support your WHS documentation.
 
Ensure safe and compliant mowing operations. Download the Push Mower SWMS today and implement best-practice risk management for your site.