Ensure safe and efficient waste management with this Rubbish Removal SWMS. This document outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with rubbish removal activities. It provides essential risk controls, hazard management strategies, and best practices to support compliance with Australian workplace safety standards while promoting a safe working environment.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Awareness & Hazard Identification
Unaware of Hazards – Ensures all workers receive training and information on safety procedures before commencing work. Risk assessments are conducted before work, and Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) are reviewed.
Hazard Reporting Process – Requires workers to conduct visual inspections and report any hazards that arise during the work process. Any changes to the SWMS must be reviewed and communicated.
Fire Safety & Evacuation Procedures – Workers are inducted on the location of fire blankets and extinguishers and are trained in emergency evacuation procedures.
2️⃣ Manual Handling & Waste Disposal
Transferring Rubbish from Office Bins to Cleaner’s Trolley – Workers must lift by the bin liner and empty contents into the cleaner’s container. PPE, including safety gloves, must be worn at all times. Manual handling techniques must be followed to prevent injury.
Overloading of Waste Bins/Containers – Trolleys must be used, and waste bins must not be overloaded. Workers should check for a clear pathway before moving waste and use proper manual handling techniques.
Repetitive Strain & Manual Handling Risks – Task rotation and regular stretching exercises are required to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Workers must avoid overexertion and seek assistance when needed.
3️⃣ Transporting Waste to Disposal Area
Pathway & Obstruction Risks – Workers must check for clear pathways and ensure the route is free from obstacles before transporting waste. Assistance should be sought when moving large or heavy loads.
Crush & Impaction Hazards – Workers must never climb into skips or compactors. Waste should be disposed of following safe work procedures to avoid crush injuries.
Back Strain & Lifting Injuries – Proper lifting techniques must be followed, and workers must rotate tasks to prevent overexertion. If heavy items need to be moved, team lifting should be used.
4️⃣ Task Completion & Site Safety
Trip Hazards from Loose Items – All loose items must be secured before moving to disposal areas to prevent trip hazards. Work areas should be kept clean and tidy.
Reporting & Damage Control – Any hazards, incidents, or property damage must be reported to the supervisor immediately for further action.
5️⃣ Compliance & Workplace Monitoring
Ongoing Safety Inspections – Supervisors conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with the SWMS. Workplace observations are performed randomly to identify risks.
Failure to Follow Safety Procedures – Non-compliance with safety protocols will result in corrective actions. Identified non-conformances must be addressed, and disciplinary action may be taken where necessary.
Process Reviews & Adjustments – SWMS and safety procedures are reviewed periodically to ensure continuous improvement and hazard mitigation.
6️⃣ Environmental Changes & Hazard Reassessment
Changes in Work Conditions – Work must cease immediately if environmental conditions change or new hazards emerge. Supervisors must be notified for reassessment before resuming work.
Risk Reassessment Procedures – Any new hazards must be formally documented, reviewed, and communicated to workers before work resumes.
Communication of Revised SWMS – All workers must be informed of changes to procedures, and all updates must be signed off before work continues.
7️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Measures – Workers must be aware of the location and use of first aid kits and firefighting equipment. Emergency contact details should be readily accessible.
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 procedures must be followed, including contacting emergency services and securing the site.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Supports Compliance - Helps businesses alignwith Australian workplace safety standards.
Structured Risk Management - Provides a structured risk management approach for rubbish removal activities.
Emergency Readiness - Establishes clear emergency response procedures for workplace incidents.
Fully customisable -  Easily adaptable for different waste disposal environments and work sites.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Rubbish Removal SWMS is essential for:
Commercial & Industrial Cleaning Services
Waste Management & Disposal Companies
Facility Maintenance Teams
Construction & Renovation Site Workers
 
Additional Resources:
Included with your purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List to support your WHS documentation.
 
Keep your workplace safe and compliant. Download the Rubbish Removal SWMS today and implement best-practice risk management in your operations.