Minimise fatigue risks & promote safer truck operations with this SWMS. This Truck Driving – Fatigue Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides a structured approach to identifying and managing fatigue-related hazards in truck driving. It outlines control measures, risk mitigation strategies, and best practices to support compliance with Australian workplace safety laws and heavy vehicle regulations while ensuring driver wellbeing.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Planning & Scheduling
Workload & Rest Breaks – Ensures schedules are planned with adequate rest breaks and realistic time allowances to prevent fatigue.
Unforeseen Delays & Adjustments – Mandates incorporating contingencies for delays due to traffic, weather, loading/unloading, or breakdowns.
Driver Consultation – Requires involving drivers in trip planning to ensure schedules are achievable and include sufficient rest opportunities.
2️⃣ Driver Fitness for Duty
Fatigue Management Training – Ensures long-distance drivers receive training on fatigue risk factors, the body clock, symptoms of fatigue, and legal responsibilities.
Fitness for Work Declarations – Requires drivers to complete a self-assessment before starting a shift and encourages reporting external factors that may impact their fitness.
Drug & Alcohol Policies – Mandates compliance with drug and alcohol policies, with support systems in place for drivers who need assistance.
3️⃣ Vehicle & Driver Comfort
Sleeper Berth & Cab Conditions – Requires all vehicles used for sleeping to be fitted with an approved sleeper berth and have proper ventilation.
Seating & Ergonomics – Ensures truck seats are adjustable and provide adequate support to reduce fatigue-related strain.
Communication & Safety Equipment – Mandates the use of UHF radios and mobile phones for emergency communication.
4️⃣ Fatigue Prevention Strategies
Break Compliance & Sleep Hygiene – Enforces adherence to minimum legal rest break requirements and promotes best practices such as stretching, keeping the cab well-ventilated, and choosing quiet rest areas.
Road & Weather Conditions – Requires consideration of weather, road conditions, and accident hotspots when planning trips and encourages extra caution in adverse conditions.
Access to Facilities – Ensures that schedules factor in access to clean amenities, including rest stops with toilets and showers.
5️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Response
First Aid & Incident Reporting – Ensures all drivers know first aid locations and emergency response procedures.
Fire Safety & Equipment Awareness – Mandates that drivers are familiar with the location and proper use of firefighting equipment.
Environmental Changes & Risk Reassessment – Requires immediate work stoppage if new hazards arise, with a reassessment before continuing operations.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Regulatory Compliance – Supports alignment with Australian workplace safety laws and NHVR fatigue management regulations.
Hazard Identification & Risk Control – Addresses key risks related to driver fatigue in transport operations.
Emergency Preparedness – Establishes clear response procedures for fatigue-related incidents and breakdowns.
Fully Customisable Content – Adaptable to suit various truck driving operations and job sites.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Truck Driving – Fatigue SWMS is essential for:
Long-Distance & Heavy Vehicle Operators
Logistics & Freight Transport Businesses
Construction & Infrastructure Projects Requiring Truck Haulage
Any Workplace Managing Truck Driver Fatigue Risks
 
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 workforce has the right procedures in place to manage fatigue risks. Download the Truck Driving – Fatigue SWMS today and help create a safer, more compliant work environment.