Ensure safe slab preparation & minimise construction risks with this SWMS. This Slab (Preparation, Pouring & Finishing) Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with concrete slab work. It details key risk mitigation strategies, hazard controls, and best practices to assist businesses in meeting Australian workplace safety standards while ensuring a safe work environment.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Planning & Risk Assessment
Site Induction & Pre-Start Meeting – Ensures all workers are informed of site-specific hazards, emergency procedures, and operational requirements before starting work.
Traffic & Worksite Risk Assessment – Requires assessing vehicle and equipment movement around the site, ensuring pedestrian safety, and identifying exclusion zones.
Pre-Operational Equipment Checks – Mandates inspections of tools, formwork, and machinery before use to confirm they are in safe working order.
2️⃣ Manual Handling & Material Placement
Lifting & Carrying Heavy Materials – Requires correct manual handling techniques, task rotation, and the use of mechanical lifting aids where possible.
Back & Shoulder Strain Prevention – Ensures workers are trained in safe lifting postures, particularly when handling formwork, steel, or concrete.
Cuts & Abrasions from Reinforcement Steel – Mandates the use of gloves and safe handling techniques when cutting and placing steel reinforcement.
3️⃣ Concrete Pouring & Finishing Risks
Slips, Trips & Falls – Requires clear walkways, proper housekeeping, and caution when working on wet concrete or plastic coverings.
Concrete Burns & Skin Irritation – Ensures workers wear gloves, long sleeves, and wash any concrete off skin immediately.
Eye Injuries from Concrete Spray – Mandates the use of safety glasses when working near the concrete hopper or using vibrators.
Shovel & Chute Handling Injuries – Requires safe handling techniques and proper body positioning to prevent strain-related injuries.
4️⃣ Powered Equipment & Machinery Safety
Formwork Installation & Nail Gun Use – Ensures workers are trained in the safe use of nail guns and that exclusion zones are maintained.
Grinder & Oxy-Acetylene Use – Requires appropriate PPE, fire extinguishers nearby, and adherence to safety guidelines when cutting materials.
Concrete Placing Boom Operations – Mandates proper training, wind speed monitoring, and electrical hazard awareness before operation.
5️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Awareness – Ensures all personnel know the location and use of first aid kits, firefighting equipment, and emergency contacts.
Incident Reporting & Emergency Procedures – Requires immediate reporting of injuries, near misses, and unexpected site hazards, with emergency protocols activated as needed.
Environmental Changes & Work Cessation – Mandates stopping work if weather conditions or site conditions introduce new risks, with a reassessment before resuming.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Regulatory Compliance – Supports alignment with Australian workplace safety laws and best practices for concrete slab construction.
Hazard Identification & Risk Control – Covers essential safety measures to reduce risks during slab preparation, pouring, and finishing.
Emergency Preparedness – Establishes clear response procedures for incidents, machinery malfunctions, and environmental hazards.
Fully Customisable Content – Easily adaptable for various job sites and concrete pouring projects.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Slab (Preparation, Pouring & Finishing) SWMS is essential for:
Concrete Contractors & Construction Workers
Civil & Infrastructure Project Teams
Builders & Site Supervisors
Any Workplace Involved in Concrete Slab Construction
 
Additional Resources:
Included with the purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List to support your WHS documentation.
 
Ensure your team follows the correct procedures for slab construction. Download the Slab (Preparation, Pouring & Finishing) SWMS today and help maintain a compliant and secure work environment.