Enhance safety & manage risks effectively with this SWMS. This Truck Driving (General) Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with general truck driving operations. It details key risk mitigation strategies, hazard controls, and best practices to assist businesses in meeting Australian workplace safety standards while ensuring the safe operation of heavy vehicles.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Planning & Risk Assessment
Site Induction & Pre-Start Meeting – Ensures all personnel are informed of site-specific hazards, emergency procedures, and operational requirements before commencing work.
Daily Pre-Start Checks – Mandates vehicle and worksite inspections before operation to identify hazards such as unstable ground, obstructions, or unsafe conditions.
Operational Readiness – Requires ensuring vehicles have current registration, logbooks, maintenance records, and completed pre-start inspection reports.
2️⃣ Vehicle Operation & Driving Safety
Safe Vehicle Access – Mandates the use of steps and handrails when entering and exiting the truck, with three points of contact maintained at all times.
Truck Movement & Traffic Management – Requires designated vehicle routes, reversing beepers, and the use of a spotter when reversing in confined areas.
Hitching & Unhitching Procedures – Ensures correct attachment points are used and that all connections are checked for security before transit.
Loading & Unloading Safety – Mandates keeping pedestrians clear, using mechanical aids for large loads, and avoiding working near overhead powerlines.
3️⃣ Worksite & Environmental Considerations
Housekeeping & Work Area Safety – Requires truck cabins, decks, and access points to be kept clean and free from loose objects that could cause injury or obstruction.
Environmental Conditions & Adjustments – Mandates reassessing operations when site conditions change, ensuring that new risks are identified and controlled.
Fatigue & Speed Management – Ensures compliance with relevant SWMS for fatigue and speed control to maintain safe driving practices.
4️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Incident Reporting – Ensures all drivers and operators are aware of first aid locations and emergency response protocols.
Refuelling Safety – Mandates that refuelling occurs in well-ventilated areas, with the vehicle switched off, keys removed, and personal protective equipment (PPE) worn.
Equipment Shut-Down & Unauthorised Use Prevention – Requires vehicles to be turned off, secured, and keys removed when not in use to prevent unauthorised operation.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Regulatory Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety laws and heavy vehicle operational standards.
Hazard Identification & Risk Control – Covers essential safety measures to mitigate truck driving risks.
Emergency Preparedness – Establishes clear procedures for responding to incidents, breakdowns, and operational hazards.
Fully Customisable Content – Easily adaptable for different job sites and truck operations.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Truck Driving (General) SWMS is essential for:
Heavy Vehicle Operators & Transport Companies
Logistics & Freight Transport Businesses
Construction & Infrastructure Projects Involving Truck Operations
Any Workplace Managing General Truck Driving 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 for safe truck operations. Download the Truck Driving (General) SWMS today and help maintain a compliant and secure work environment.