Ensure worker safety in isolated environments with this Remote Location and Working Alone SWMS. This document outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with working alone or in remote locations. It provides essential risk controls, hazard management strategies, and best practices to support compliance with Australian workplace safety standards while ensuring a secure work environment.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Working in Remote Locations
Limited Access to Emergency Services – Workers must be mentally and physically fit for remote work. Any pre-existing medical conditions must be disclosed to management to prevent unsafe working conditions.
First Aid & Medical Preparedness – At least one worker per shift must hold a Senior First Aid Qualification. First aid kits must be stocked according to the hazards present in the workplace.
Communication & Emergency Backup Plans – A communication plan must be developed before remote work begins. Mobile phones, UHF radios, satellite phones, and EPIRBs must be provided where required. A backup plan must be in place in case communication is lost.
2️⃣ Driving in Remote Areas
Limited Access to Medical Assistance – Drivers must hold a current licence for the vehicle class being operated.
Fatigue & Safe Driving Hours – Driving time must not exceed 10 hours in a 24-hour period, and total travel time, including breaks, must not exceed 12 hours. Drivers must take a 20-minute rest break every 3 hours.
Vehicle Safety & Pre-Start Inspections – A vehicle check must be conducted before departure, including inspecting tyres, radiator water level, oil level, and battery condition. Towed appliances such as trailers or boats must also be inspected.
Journey Planning & Communication – Drivers must gather information about road conditions before travel. If operating in off-road or remote areas, they must notify local authorities and set up a check-in schedule.
3️⃣ Working Alone
Exposure to Violence or Emergencies – Workers must be mentally and physically fit. Any medical conditions must be disclosed to management.
Field Work Plan & Induction – A field work plan must be completed and approved by the Managing Director. All personnel must be inducted on its contents before commencing work.
Emergency Communication Methods – Mobile phones, UHF radios, satellite phones, and EPIRBs must be available. Personal security systems may be required for high-risk environments.
4️⃣ Compliance & Workplace Monitoring
Ongoing Safety Inspections – Supervisors must conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with this SWMS.
Non-Compliance & Disciplinary Action – Any failure to follow safety procedures will result in corrective action. Workplace observations will be conducted randomly to identify risks.
Process Reviews & Adjustments – The SWMS and safety procedures must be periodically reviewed to ensure continuous improvement and hazard mitigation.
5️⃣ Environmental Changes & Hazard Reassessment
Changing Work Conditions – Work must stop immediately if environmental conditions change or new hazards emerge. Supervisors must reassess risks before work resumes.
Revised SWMS Communication – Any updates to the SWMS must be communicated to all workers before work continues. Supervisors must sign off on any revisions.
6️⃣ 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 major 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 remote and solo work environments.
Structured Risk Management – Identifies and mitigates key hazards associated with working alone or in isolated locations.
Emergency Readiness – Establishes clear response procedures for workplace incidents, vehicle breakdowns, and medical emergencies.
Fully Customisable – Can be tailored to specific remote working environments, travel risks, and job requirements.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Remote Location and Working Alone SWMS is essential for:
Environmental & Field Research Teams
Construction & Maintenance Workers in Remote Areas
Utility & Telecommunications Technicians
Emergency Response & Field Operations Personnel
 
Additional Resources:
Included with your purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List to support your WHS documentation.
 
Ensure safety and compliance in remote work environments. Download the Remote Location and Working Alone SWMS today and implement best-practice risk management for your team.