This 21-page Trenching and Excavation Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides detailed guidance on safely carrying out trenching and excavation works, including the identification of potential hazards and the implementation of effective control measures.
 
Pre-filled, ready to use, and created by WHS experts, this template helps your business stay compliant with WHS obligations across all Australian states and territories. Fully editable in Microsoft Word, it allows you to easily customise the document with your company name, logo, and site-specific details, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your safety management system.
 
This SWMS is an essential tool for improving site safety, meeting legal requirements, and ensuring workers understand safe work practices - perfect for tenders, safety audits, and day-to-day operations.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is ideal for a wide range of industries and businesses involved in excavation-related works, including:
Civil construction companies
Plumbing and drainage contractors
Electrical contractors
Landscaping and earthmoving businesses
Roadworks and infrastructure developers
Utility installation and maintenance providers
 
What This SWMS Covers
This comprehensive SWMS addresses key risks, safety controls, and step-by-step procedures for trenching and excavation works, including:
Planning & Site Preparation - conducting risk assessments, selecting appropriate equipment, and establishing safe work zones.
Daily Pre-start Meetings - briefing crews on hazards, site changes, and exclusion zones.
Plant & Equipment Safety - pre-start inspections, operator licensing, and maintenance protocols for excavators and support machinery.
Ground Stability Controls - shoring, battering, and safe soil management to prevent trench wall collapse.
Working Around Services - locating underground utilities using Dial Before You Dig (DBYD) and potholing procedures.
Safe Excavation Practices - maintaining minimum setback distances, correct spoil placement, and ensuring safe ladder access and egress.
Manual Handling Procedures - safe techniques for handling shoring and trenching equipment.
Powered Mobile Plant Hazards - exclusion zones, traffic management plans, and spotter protocols.
Electrical Hazard Controls - safe distances from overhead and underground powerlines, de-energisation, and accredited person requirements.
Emergency Response Procedures - actions for incidents, injuries, and equipment failure.
 
What’s Included in Your Template
HRCW Selection Table 
Risk assessment guidelines and risk rating calculator
Step-by-step procedures and safety controls
Comprehensive list of possible hazards and control measures
PPE requirements and usage guidelines
Plant and equipment checklist
Relevant WHS legislation, codes of practice, and Australian standards
Worker sign-off page to confirm understanding and compliance
 
 
This SWMS template for Trenching and Excavation is an invaluable tool for documenting your WHS systems efficiently and accurately. Designed for quick editing and customisation, it seamlessly adapts to your business needs - making it an essential part of your safety management toolkit.
 
Perfect for tenders, safety audits, and day-to-day operations, this SWMS saves you time and effort while helping your business remain safe and compliant.
 
Get your Trenching and Excavation SWMS today and start using it instantly!