This 21-page Working at Heights Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides the essential safety controls and identifies potential hazards associated with working at heights, including tasks involving ladders, scaffolding, elevated work platforms (EWPs), and roof work.
 
Pre-filled and ready to use, this SWMS is designed by WHS experts to help you meet your WHS obligations and maintain compliance across all Australian states and territories. Fully editable in Microsoft Word, it’s simple to customise with your company name, logo, and site-specific details - saving you valuable time during tender submissions, safety audits, or day-to-day operations.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is ideal for a wide range of industries and businesses involved in working at heights, including:
Construction companies and contractors
Roofing and guttering businesses
Electrical and telecommunications installers
HVAC and refrigeration technicians
Scaffolding and EWP operators
Warehousing, maintenance, and facilities teams
Cleaning and property maintenance providers
 
What This SWMS Covers
This comprehensive SWMS details the step-by-step procedures, hazards, and control measures required for safely performing working-at-heights activities, including:
Planning and preparation - conducting site-specific risk assessments, securing permits, and reviewing emergency procedures
Use of ladders - correct ladder selection, safe positioning, inspection requirements, and working near power lines in compliance with AS 1892
Scaffold safety - selection, erection, use, and dismantling of scaffolding, ensuring compliance with AS 1576 and related codes
Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) - safe setup, operation, pre-start checks, load limits, and harness requirements
Fall prevention and arrest systems - using guardrails, harnesses, shock-absorbing lanyards, anchor points, and other protective systems
Hazard management - identifying and controlling risks such as falls, falling objects, electrocution, slips, trips, and equipment failure
Tool and material handling - safe systems for transporting, securing, and storing tools and equipment while working at height
Environmental factors - managing work in adverse weather conditions, including wind, rain, extreme heat, and glare
Emergency response - procedures for incidents, equipment failures, or medical emergencies
 
What’s Included in Your Template
High-Risk Construction Work (HRCW) selection table
Comprehensive risk assessment guidelines and risk rating calculator
Step-by-step safe work procedures and control measures
PPE requirements and usage instructions
Plant and equipment checklist
References to relevant WHS legislation, regulations, and codes of practice
Worker sign-off sheet for compliance and recordkeeping
 
 
This Working at Heights SWMS template is an invaluable tool for documenting your WHS processes and managing on-site safety effectively. Designed for quick editing and customisation, it adapts seamlessly to your operational needs - making it an essential part of your safety management system.
 
Perfect for tenders, safety audits, and day-to-day operations, this template saves you time, reduces risks, and helps you maintain compliance.
 
Get your Working at Heights SWMS today and start using it instantly!