This 18-page Working on Roofs Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides detailed safety controls, procedures, and risk management strategies for performing roof work safely and in compliance with Australian WHS legislation.
 
Developed by WHS experts, this pre-filled and ready-to-use template helps businesses meet their WHS obligations and manage the risks associated with working at heights, fragile surfaces, ladders, electrical hazards, and weather conditions.
 
Suitable for all Australian states and territories, this SWMS is fully editable in Microsoft Word and can be customised with your company name, logo, and site-specific details. It’s an essential tool for ensuring worker safety, preparing tenders, and demonstrating compliance during audits.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is ideal for businesses and trades involved in:
Roofing contractors and installers
Building and construction companies
Civil works and infrastructure projects
Electrical and HVAC contractors
Property maintenance and repair services
Warehousing, logistics, and facility management
Any business undertaking work at heights or roof access
 
What This SWMS Covers
The SWMS covers a range of hazards, including but not limited to the following:
Planning and Site Preparation
Conducting site-specific risk assessments and inductions
Setting up exclusion zones and barricades to protect workers and the public
Identifying and marking fragile or brittle roof surfaces, including skylights and asbestos sheeting
Working at Heights
Fall prevention strategies, including harnesses, static lines, and guardrails
Use of roof ladders, crawl boards, and platform staging
Implementing fall arrest systems and signage for high-risk areas
Emergency response planning for falls and rescues
Plant, Tools, and Equipment Safety
Daily inspections and maintenance of EWPs, ladders, harnesses, and roof anchors
Safe use of temporary guardrails, roof ladders, cordless tools, and lifting systems
Correct ladder selection, positioning, and safe usage techniques
Handling Fragile Roofing and Hazardous Materials
Special controls for working around brittle surfaces
Cutting and drilling tiles, masonry, and concrete safely
Dust suppression and RCS (respirable crystalline silica) controls, including PPE and HEPA extraction systems
Environmental and Weather Considerations
Guidelines for safe work in wet, windy, and high-heat conditions
Implementing heat stress controls, hydration plans, and sun protection
Ceasing work when weather conditions exceed safe operating limits
Electrical and Overhead Power Hazards
Identifying, marking, and isolating live electrical services
Maintaining minimum clearance distances in compliance with AS/NZS 3012
Using insulated tools and prohibiting metal ladders near power sources
Manual Handling and Material Safety
Safe lifting, lowering, and transporting of tools and materials
Team lifting and mechanical aids for heavy or awkward loads
Procedures to prevent dropped objects and property damage
Emergency Preparedness
Rescue procedures and equipment for fall recovery
First aid requirements and emergency contact details
Incident reporting, preservation of incident sites, and notifying regulators
 
What’s Included in Your Template
Detailed step-by-step procedures and safety controls
Comprehensive hazard identification and risk assessment guidelines
PPE requirements and selection table
Plant and equipment checklist
Relevant WHS legislation, codes of practice, and Australian Standards
Risk rating matrix and hierarchy of controls
Worker sign-off page for SWMS acknowledgement
 
 
This Working on Roofs SWMS is an invaluable tool for documenting your WHS systems quickly and effectively. Designed for fast editing and simple customisation, it integrates seamlessly into your operational processes - making it an essential resource for safety compliance.
 
Perfect for tenders, safety audits, and day-to-day site operations, this template saves you time while helping you maintain a safe and compliant workplace.
 
Get your Working on Roofs SWMS today and start using it instantly!