Improve roadside safety & manage risks with this SWMS. This Traffic Management Sign Setup Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with setting up traffic signs. It details essential risk controls, hazard mitigation strategies, and best practices to help businesses comply with Australian workplace safety standards while ensuring the safety of workers and road users.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Planning & Risk Assessment
Site Induction & Pre-Start Meeting – Ensures all personnel are briefed on site-specific hazards, emergency procedures, and safe work methods before work begins.
Site Hazard Inspection – Requires identifying and documenting hazards such as powerlines, open waterways, steep embankments, and high winds before starting work.
Traffic Awareness & Rear-End Collision Prevention – Mandates the use of mirrors, indicators, and hazard lights when slowing down and pulling over.
2️⃣ Traffic & Pedestrian Management
Work Area Exclusion Zones – Requires setting up pedestrian and vehicle exclusion zones to minimise the risk of collisions.
Spotters & Communication – Mandates using two-way communication between workers and site personnel to ensure safe setup operations.
Flashing Lights & Vehicle Positioning – Ensures vehicles are positioned far enough off the road to safely unload and place signage.
3️⃣ Manual Handling & Sign Installation
Lifting & Carrying Techniques – Requires correct manual handling procedures when lifting and positioning traffic signs to reduce the risk of back strain.
Sharp Edges & Hand Protection – Mandates the use of safety gloves to prevent cuts and lacerations when handling signs.
Sign Placement Order – Ensures signs are set up in the correct sequence, starting with the furthest sign (e.g., "Roadwork Ahead") and working back towards the worksite.
4️⃣ Environmental & Exposure Hazards
Sun Protection & Hydration – Requires wearing wide-brimmed hats or hard hats where necessary and maintaining access to drinking water to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Wind & Dust Visibility Risks – Mandates reassessing site conditions and updating risk controls when high winds impact visibility.
5️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Awareness – Ensures workers know the location and use of first aid kits and firefighting equipment.
Incident Reporting & Emergency Procedures – Requires workers to report all injuries, near misses, and equipment damage, with emergency protocols activated as needed.
Work Cessation for New Hazards – Mandates stopping work immediately if unexpected hazards arise, with a reassessment before proceeding.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Regulatory Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety laws and traffic management regulations.
Hazard Identification & Risk Control – Covers essential safety measures to mitigate risks associated with roadside sign setup.
Emergency Preparedness – Establishes clear response procedures for incidents, traffic hazards, and environmental risks.
Fully Customisable Content – Easily adaptable for various traffic management projects.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Traffic Management Sign Setup SWMS is essential for:
Traffic Controllers & Roadside Workers
Civil & Infrastructure Contractors
Local Government & Road Maintenance Teams
Any Workplace Requiring Temporary Traffic Sign Installation
 
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 traffic sign setup. Download the Traffic Management Sign Setup SWMS today and help maintain a compliant and secure work environment.