Excavation Working in Trenches Swms 10281-6

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Business Address: ABN/NZBN:
EXCAVATION & WORKING IN TRENCHES SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS)

Business Contact: Phone #: Principal Contractor (PC):
Responsible person (for monitoring SWMS and work): PC Address:
Signature: Date: PC Phone #: Date SWMS provided to PC:
Contact Phone #: Job Site Address:
THIS WORK ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE FOLLOWING HAZARDOUS WORK AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Electrical equipment Elevated levels Slips, trips and falls Hazardous substances Silica dust
Hot Work Hazardous manual tasks Outdoor work Remotely &/or isolated work ?
Noise and vibration Native vegetation & weeds Air quality Waste Vehicle movement
Fuels, oils & chemicals Terrestrial fauna Waterways & soils Cultural heritage ?
THIS WORK ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE FOLLOWING “HIGH-RISK CONSTRUCTION WORK” (HRCW - IDENTIFIED IN THE JOB TASK COLUMN)
Confined spaces Mobile plant movement Demolition of a load-bearing structure Asbestos disturbance
Using explosives Diving work Artificial extremes of temperature Tilt-up or pre-cast concrete
Pressurised gas distribution mains or piping chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines energised electrical installations or services
Structures or buildings involving structural alterations or repairs that require temporary support to prevent collapse
Involves a risk of a person falling from 2m or more, including work on telecommunications towers
Working at depths greater than 1.5 Metres, including tunnels or mines Work in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere
Work carried out adjacent to a road, railway or shipping lane, traffic corridor In or near water or other liquid that involves the risk of drowning
FOOT HEARING HIGH HEAD EYE FACE HAND PROTECTIVE BREATHING SUN SAFETY Do not wear rings,
PROTECTION PROTECTION VISIBILITY PROTECTION PROTECTION PROTECTION PROTECTION CLOTHING PROTECTION PROTECTION HARNESS watches or
jewellery that may
become
entangled. Long
and loose hair
must be tied back.
DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

EXCAVATION & WORKING IN TRENCHES © SafetyCulture All Rights Reserved ISSUE DATE: REVISION DATE: Page 1 of 17
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 Liaise with Principal Contractor to identify on-site safety systems and procedures
Planning/Preparation  Establish supervisory and communication arrangements
 Principal contractor to confirm emergency response procedures are in place.
Hold Points  Hold points identified and signed off before continuing work. Specify?
 All workers to have a General Construction Induction Card
 Relevant workers have relevant certificates of competency, licenses, and training. Specify on the SWMS Sign-off for each worker.
 Trained First Aider on site
Training/Licence
 All workers trained in site-specific emergency and evacuation procedures, SWMS, safe work procedures, and safety data sheets
 If operating powered mobile plant, e.g. excavator, skid steer ensure separate, dedicated SWMS for the plant used and that all
workers/employees have relevant training and licensing.
 Fit condition for work, i.e. no signs of fatigue, alcohol or drugs
 Attend all site inductions/briefings
Worker duties and
 Comply with all site requirements, e.g. PPE, Traffic Management Plans (TMP)
responsibilities
 Only carry out work related to the contract
 Inspect completed work and report possible safety, environmental and quality matters to the supervisor.
 All persons involved in the task must have this SWMS communicated to them before work commences
 SWMS to be reviewed and amended if necessary, in consultation with relevant persons after any near miss or incident
 If additional site hazards identified, review this SWMS and amend control measures to suit
 People, including workers, contractors and sub-contractors, affected by the revisions to this SWMS, must be informed ASAP
Monitor/Review  Give the principal contractor a copy of the revised SWMS
 The site supervisor to monitor works against the controls stated in this SWMS
 SWMS must be kept on-site and made available for inspection or review
 Keep a record of this SWMS until the job is complete or for two years if involved in a notifiable incident
 Regardless of any other factor, the person in control of the workplace must review this SWMS at least annually.
Site-Specific Notes: Act, Regulations, Codes of Practice References:
Refer to your tax invoice for your free download.

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LIKELIHOOD INSIGNIFICANT MINOR MODERATE MAJOR CATASTROPHIC

SCORE ACTION
ALMOST CERTAIN 3 - HIGH 3 - HIGH 4 - ACUTE 4 - ACUTE 4 - ACUTE
LIKELY 2 - MODERATE 3 - HIGH 3 - HIGH 4 - ACUTE 4 - ACUTE 4A - ACUTE DO NOT PROCEED.
POSSIBLE 1 - LOW 2 - MODERATE 3 - HIGH 4 - ACUTE 4 - ACUTE 3H - HIGH Review before commencing work.
UNLIKELY 1 - LOW 1 - LOW 2 - MODERATE 3 - HIGH 4 - ACUTE 2M - MODERATE Maintain control measures.
RARE 1 - LOW 1 - LOW 2 - MODERATE 3 - HIGH 3 - HIGH 1L - LOW Record and monitor.
MOST LEAST
HIERARCHY OF CONTROLS EFFECTIVE EFFECTIVE
RESPONSIBLE
JOB TASK HAZARDS RISK CONTROL MEASURES PERSON
1. Provide Exposure to 3H  Training and information provided to workers on RCS should include: Supervisor
training on respirable o Information on the health effects associated with respirable crystalline silica dust (Provide
the health crystalline silica workers with a copy of ‘Health Monitoring for Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals - Guide for
effects (RCS) – dust workers’: Safe Work Australia)
associated inhalation o Identification of RCS dust through Safety Datasheet (SDS) or labels
with o Dust exposure prevention
respirable o Checking controls are working and using them
crystalline o When and how to use any respiratory protective equipment provided and what to do if
silica dust something goes wrong (Including worker respirator fit and check processes).
2. Planning Property 3H  Consider: Supervisor
damage o Overall depth of the proposed excavation
o Potential impacts on an adjoining property, particularly concerning drainage or collapse
o Instability to adjoining or nearby structures
 Any excavation that is below the level of the footing of any structure including retaining walls that
could affect the stability of the structure must be assessed by a competent person and secured by
a suitable ground support system, which has been designed by a competent person (e.g.
engineer). Suitable supports to brace the structure may also be required and identified by a
competent person
 Proprietary documents (detailed drawings / specifications, details for use / storage / precautions,
criteria for rejection)
 Element documents:
o Proposed sequence of work and SWMS
o Stabilisation methods (temporary and permanent)
o Signed copies of any –
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 Changes made to specifications or signed instructions, advice or diagrams made or
issued by an engineer
 Notification to the relevant authority for works
 Inspection reports if required
 All reports, licences and authorities to carry out the excavation work.
 Planning for the work should include the primary contractor, geotechnical consultant (or
appropriate engineer as appropriate).
 Assess intended site limitations. Check:
o Layout is suitable
o For overhead obstructions (including power lines)
o Sufficient delivery access
o Sufficient working room.
Note: The soil examined a competent person to ensure that the method of control (e.g. shoring
/battering) when working at depths greater than 1.5 m, is appropriate.
Injury or death 4A  Implement a site-specific Trench Collapse Emergency Response Plan
from trench  Emergency plan to take into account unexpected incidents, such as ground slip, flooding,
collapse gas leaks and the rescue of workers from an excavation.
Contact with 4A  Ensure underground services identified and marked accurately for depth and position:
underground o Contact Dial Before You Dig
assets o Use accredited cable locator contractor to test the area
o Contact relevant authorities/companies for ‘as constructed’ plans if necessary
o Hand excavate using a shovel to locate services and mark out before any trenching or
battering works
 Use “Potholing” techniques as required:
o Use extreme care when working near gas mains
o When using hand prodders to locate pipes do not use hammers or other implements
 Mark all exposed services with flags or devices that can be readily seen
 Ensure all marked services continue to be visible for the duration of the work.
Asphyxiation 4A Ascertain if the excavation and trench is a confined space; if so ensure there is a separate,
dedicated SWMS for working in a confined space and that workers have relevant training.
 Note: A confined space is defined as an enclosed or partially enclosed space that is likely to be a
risk to health and safety, when a person’s head or upper body is within the boundary of the
confined space, because of:
o An atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level, or

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o Contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dust that may cause injury from fire or
explosion, or
o Harmful concentrations of airborne contaminants.
3. Working Extreme 3H  Check weather conditions – do not work in extreme conditions Supervisor to
outdoors weather  Reschedule works to work in more moderate temperatures. maintain
awareness of
Hyperthermia 3H  Ensure workers trained to recognise the symptoms of hyperthermia and hypothermia weather
 Hot conditions. Ensure:  Cold conditions. Ensure: conditions
Hypothermia o Suitable protective clothing o Schedule warm-up breaks
o Sun brim on hard hats o Hold breaks inside Operator to
o Safety glasses - UV rated o Dress warmly in layers follow controls
o Use 30+ sunscreen on exposed o Stay dry (wet clothing chills the body rapidly)
skin o Workers must get out of the cold as soon as they
o Adequate drinking water can if starting to feel symptoms
o Access to shade on breaks o Alcohol, cigarettes, caffeine and certain
o Adequate breaks. medications increase susceptibility to cold.
4. Arrival on-site Personal injury, 3H  The vehicle should be positioned in a safe location, clear of traffic/vehicles/pedestrians during Supervisor to
& assess property equipment delivery and materials removal (deploy physical barriers, caution signs as necessary) check the site
onsite damage &/or  Do not park illegally and conduct
conditions environmental  Identify and obey all safety-related signage (check site entry requirements) JSA where
incident  Report to Site Supervisor necessary
 Ensure site-specific induction undertaken
 Assess mobile phone reception
 The worksite is exactly as detailed in Terms of Agreement or contract
 Complete a JSA specifying the control measures of unanticipated hazards.
5. HRCW Unauthorised 3H  Erect secure impassable barricades with adequate signage: Supervisors
Work area access to the o Erected before the commencement of work to check all
set-up work area o Kept in position at all times until the work completed and it is safe to remove controls in
o Regularly inspected and maintained place and
 Use lockout procedures to prevent unauthorised use of plant followed
 Provide information to workers and other persons on-site advising them of the exclusion zones
 Delivery of goods, materials and equipment should only be made through the public areas during Workers to
off-peak periods follow controls
 Provide supervision so that no unauthorised person enters an exclusion zone. and make

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Working 4A  Where temporary road traffic control is required (e.g. when providing temporary road bypass for supervisor
adjacent to site works, materials delivery or pedestrian management): aware of any
traffic o Approvals and permits are sought from the local council and/or state road transport issues
departments where necessary
o A TMP developed for the temporary works (this can be a separate plan to the Construction
TMP if required)
o Only accredited traffic controllers are to perform traffic control duties
o All traffic control measures put in place implemented as per Australian Standard AS 1742.3–
2009: Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Part 3: Traffic Control for Works on Roads
(‘AS 1742.3-2009’) or other requirements as per permit conditions
o Traffic controllers must have the required accreditation to perform traffic control duties
o Traffic controllers must have sufficient experience to set-up and control traffic safely and
efficiently.
Injury to public 3H  Pedestrian Access: Ensure:
o If closing/modifying a vehicle lane, parking area or footpath, the following factors are
considered in developing alternative pedestrian access:
 Travel speed of road traffic
 Traffic volumes
 Percentage of heavy vehicles
 The alignment of the road
o If an alternative route is immediately adjacent to the road, concrete or water-filled barriers to
protect pedestrians from road traffic should be used
o Pedestrians directed by defined walking paths clearly marked with using appropriate
measures (e.g. barriers, fencing hazard netting)
o Signage must be appropriate and easily seen
o Temporary pathways must have no trip hazards, and the ground/pavement should be free
of holes, dips, mud or debris
 Mobility impaired, e.g. wheelchair access, pram ramps,
 Barrier fencing or Hoarding erected to prevent the public from entering hazardous areas of the
worksite
 Access monitored through a single-entry point.
6. Environment Environmental 3H  Noise & vibration - Be aware of maximum noise levels at the site Supervisors
impact  The plant is maintained to minimise noise to check all
 No noise produced outside council approved hours of operation controls in
 Air quality - Water sprays or dust suppressants methods are in place place and
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 Where there is powered mobile plant movement generating dust use water spraying methods and followed
cover loads on trucks while in transit
 Waste - Place all wastes and rubbish in bins or other appropriate containers Workers to
 Separate recycle waste from general waste follow controls
 Do not mix waste with spoil and make
 Fuels, oils & chemicals - Minimum amounts of hazardous substances kept on site supervisor
 Labelled and securely stored aware of any
 Refuelling of vehicles/equipment undertaken at least 6m from drains and waterways issues
 Follow SDS directions for disposal of chemicals in approved waste containers
 A spill kit is available at all times & spills cleaned up immediately follow SDS directions
 Waterways & soils - Do not wash out plant, equipment or containers where residue can enter
waterways or drains
 If having to pump water from the excavation, ensure the removed water is not discharged into a
location where it may cause damage to property or the environment
 The removed water must not be discharged, either directly or indirectly, into the sewer.
 Native vegetation & weeds - Provide site-specific information on any specifically protected
vegetation on site
 No disturbance of vegetation communities outside the defined clearing area
 Clearing of native vegetation only occurs within the limits of an approved vegetation clearing
permit
 Clearly defined work areas to ensure no vegetation clearing occurs outside of the work area
 No burning of vegetation
 Notify site manager if any accidental or unintended vegetation clearing occurs
 Cease immediately any work that causes the unintended vegetation clearing to occur
 Ensure that plant is washed free of dirt, vegetation, debris before travelling between sites.
 Vehicle movement - Follow the TMP, only travel on established tracks and roads
 Use designated entry and exit points
 Cultural heritage - Training and instruction provided concerning the heritage values, historical
significance, cultural relevance or sensitivity of the area
 Comply with the conditions of any licence, approval or permit issued by the relevant planning
authorities relating to cultural heritage
 No disturbance of heritage values or items
 No complaints or allegations of unauthorised disturbance of heritage values or items
 Due diligence in the supervision, inspection and monitoring to ensure that the necessary licence,
approval and permit conditions complied with
 Any disturbance is minimised, and buffer zones or segregated areas are maintained
 If an unknown condition arises, e.g. cultural heritage relic: Stop work and notify the site manager

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 Terrestrial fauna - All site personnel are aware of any fauna on site
 Ensure no injury or death to fauna is caused by the operations
 Notify site manager if previously unidentified fauna is observed
 Contact wildlife carer groups/vet for injured fauna or if any dead fauna need removing
 No domestic animals on-site
 Ensure all food scraps placed in lidded bins.
7. House  Slips 3H  Maintain housekeeping throughout the shift & clean-up Supervisor
keeping  Trips  Ensure sufficient lighting to detect changes in level (using temporary lighting as required) and workers
 Falls  Do not jump from elevated edges >180mm, step carefully and use prepared access areas to ensure
 The work area is clean and uncluttered as possible control
 Do not place equipment where it could become a trip hazard measures
 Check for stored items, corners or other obstructions that could cause tripping followed
 Ensure there is room to manoeuvre and no obstacles in the way
 Check the end destination is prepared correctly for placement of the materials/equipment
 Clean spills immediately
 Footwear is suitable. Snug-fitting shoes/boots with flat, non-slip soles, no loose soles, long laces,
oily soles, or caked with mud or other contaminants.
8. Manual tasks Musculoskeletal 3H  Materials/equipment placed as close to the work area as possible Supervisor
Disorder (MSD)  Weight of an object should be known; avoid lifting loads more than 1/4 of your body weight and workers
injuries  Do not use extreme force to move items to ensure
 Hold lifted items close to the body whenever possible: control
o Keeping knees bent and back straight and lift, unload keeping knees bent measures
 Use team lifts and mechanical means for heavy items followed
 Schedule regular breaks and practice job rotation
 Avoid overreaching, long periods of repetitive movements, awkward and sustained positions,
twisting and side-bending.
9. HRCW  Struck by 4A  Follow traffic management plan requirements Supervisors
Equipment & mobile plant  Alertness at all times. Listen for reversing alarms/beepers and calls from Plant Operators to check all
materials  Obey all safety/warning signs, spotters, traffic barriers controls in
delivery  Crush injuries  Work positions should be in clear sight of plant operators place and
 Amputation  Reversing trucks. Ensure: followed
 Entanglement o Never stand between a truck and another structure when the vehicle is reversing
 Fatality o Always maintain visual contact with the driver’s mirrors Workers to
Remember: if you can’t see the driver – he can’t see you! follow controls
o Use a spotter where practicable to direct trucks on site. and make

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 When unloading ensure: supervisor
o Within Safe working load (SWL) if using hoisting machinery aware of any
o Suitable ground and sufficient room for operation issues
 Unnecessary personnel cleared from the unloading zone area
o Persons do not stand on or beside delivery vehicle during unloading
o Loads kept stable and will not free-fall
o Use lifting equipment for larger packs
 Provide secure stockpile area for materials and equipment
 Unload and stack following the manufacturers’ recommendations
 Secure to prevent movement irrespective of the slope of
 surface, e.g. sandbags, star pickets
 Do not place or stack materials near the edge of any excavation.
 No loads placed or moved near the edge of excavation where it is likely to cause the collapse of
the trench
 No-load handling/movement across the excavation
 Never stand behind trucks when materials are tipped from the truck
 Do not direct trucks to unload adjacent to drop-offs or any other area where control of the vehicle
may be lost when unloading
 Wear High vis clothing
 Struck by 4A  Where delivering roadside or other public places, an alternative footpath provided, and protection
vehicle fitted around the work area to prevent splash occurring to passers-by
 Injury to  Where necessary, traffic control put in place to provide safe road use
public  If setting up roadside – comply with local laws and permits
 Erect any barriers & signage necessary to keep others safe and aware
 Use a spotter to assist drivers reversing in the dark, low clearance or high traffic areas.
Contact with 4A  Work not conducted in close proximity to electrical power lines. Check for:
overhead o Overhead power lines (including high and low voltage distribution conductors)
electric lines o Single wire earth return (SWER)
o Service cables to premises
o Communications cables
o Electrical transformers (mounted lower than cables).
 Identify the maximum range of equipment and how close equipment or load can come to an asset
(known as design envelope) The following dimensions are taken from the closest point of an
extended component of the machine, e.g. extended long reach boom
 In general for up to and including 132,000 volts:

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o 3m above, either side and below power lines is No Go Zone.
o Between 3-6.4m of power lines, a Spotter is required.
o Further than 6.4m of power lines is an open area
o No work to be conducted within a 10m radius of SWER transformer.
No work conducted within the Minimum Clearance Zones unless authorised by the
power supplier.
Approach distances vary based on the voltage level of the live electrical apparatus. Always
contact your local power asset owner for information before commencing operations if unsure.
Truck rollover 4A  Ensure:
o The ground is stable; the soil compacted sufficiently
o Gradient/slope within safe limits; inc. entire travel distance if dumping while moving
o Clear of overhead electric lines and other obstacles
 Ensure truck does not operate or travel near the edge of a drop-off
 Do not allow truck turn or tip load on side slopes.
Do not attempt to unload rocks on soft, uneven ground, downgrades or cross falls
(higher centre of gravity).
10. HRCW Powered mobile 4A  Groundworkers. Ensure: Supervisors
Excavating & plant movement o High visibility clothing worn at all times to check all
backfilling - o Do not stand behind reversing vehicles controls in
working o Allow sufficient distance from plant during operation place and
adjacent to o Alertness at all times. Listen for reversing alarms/beepers & calls from plant operators followed
machinery o Work positions should be in clear sight of plant operators
 Ensure an effective system of communication between the machine operator and ground workers Workers to
established before work commences follow controls
 Relevant workers trained in the procedures involved before work commencing and make
 Groundworkers are instructed not to approach the machine until the operator has agreed to their supervisor
request to approach aware of any
 Ensure ground workers are instructed on set distances to maintain from the machine while in issues
operation
 Groundworkers made familiar with the blind spots of the machine.
Contact with 4A  Never place any part of the body on or near a machine while it is in operation.
moving parts -  Never push another person or engage in horseplay around operating machinery
excavating  Keep shovels away from trencher chains and augers
machinery.  Always wait for the machine to work ahead before cleaning away spoil
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 Do not work within a radius of extended booms, near stabilisers or loader buckets.
 DO NOT assist machine by hand when in operation
 DO NOT Use tools (such as shovels) to help move dirt from around the excavation during
machine operation
 DO NOT Use persons as counterweights
 DO NOT Walk backwards around machinery.
Trench collapse 4A  Ensure trench sides are not subject to loading (material/vehicles or plant placed on the high side
Engulfment of the excavation does not increase the risk of ground collapse)
 The powered mobile plant should not operate or travel near the edge of an excavation unless the
ground support system installed has been designed by a competent person to carry such loads
 Keep spoil at least 1 m from the top of the excavation
 Keep spoil piles to a maximum of 600mm. high
 Excavated material placed so that it channels rainwater and other run-off water away from the
excavation
 Backfill trench as soon as possible.
Silica dust 4A  Ensure dust suppression practices are in place
 Machine operators:
o Keep the cab doors, and windows closed at all times when the machine is in operation
o Monitor the performance of the air conditioning system each time the machine is used
o Look for signs of dust build-up on the surfaces of the cab. This may be a sign that the air filter
is in poor condition
o If you think there is a problem with your dust control equipment, ensure additional control
measures taken to reduce exposure to respirable crystalline silica while the problem persists
o Keep the interior of the cabin clean
o Use, maintain and store any respiratory protective equipment provided per instructions
Hearing loss 3H  Ensure hearing protection worn by all persons throughout exposure to noise from machinery.
Falls 3H  Erect any barriers & signage necessary to keep others safe and aware of the fall hazards when
working on top of the excavation
 Do not walk near the top edge of excavation; maintain a safe distance from the edge
 Keep trip hazards away from the edge of the excavation.
11. HRCW Loss of 3H  Ensure an effective system of communication between the machine operator and any Supervisors
Installing & communication groundworker established before work commences. E.g. dogman: to check all
removing o Check radio communication, including dedicated radio frequency, equipment checks controls in

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trench o Mobile phone as a backup system (powered and turned on) place and
shields o Develop and implement clear communication and procedures for loss of signal followed
/shoring o Use hand signalling where appropriate.
Workers to
Load equipment 4A  Lifting gear should be checked before and after use and regularly inspected to determine whether follow controls
failure it is suitable to keep using. Check: and make
o It is tagged to identify the date of the lifting gear’s last inspection supervisor
o Tags list all relevant information, e.g. chain sling includes grade of chain, rated capacity aware of any
(WLL), manufacturer, chain size & any relevant Australian Standard marking issues
o Lifting hooks are provided with operable safety latches where appropriate
o Shackles used as terminal fittings prevented from unscrewing
o Lifting eyes and inserts are compatible
o Lifting slings are not damaged, e.g. excessive wear, damaged strands, cracks, deformation or
severe corrosion
o Sling is appropriate for the load, including adequate capacity and protection from sharp
edges.
Crush injuries 4A  Groundworkers must wear hard hats
/falling objects  Ensure the plant and equipment operates within their safe working load limits. Check:
o Weight of load – this should be marked on the load
o Uniformity of the load – identify the centre of gravity to limit any possible swinging of the load
when lifted
o That the location where the load is to be placed is clear of obstructions. This includes
overhead obstructions such as power lines as well as surface or trench obstructions.
Hit by moving 4A  Hard hats, gloves & safety boots are worn
object  Inspect each load before lifting. Ensure load is stable for travel
 Cease operation if persons enter the exclusion zone
 Never pass the load over a person or allow anyone to stand, work or walk under a raised load
 Do not allow people to be near stacked loads being loaded or unloaded
 Always travel with load in the lowest position available
 Do not drag or push load – always lift vertically.
12. HRCW Drowning 4A  Lower water level to below the base of the proposed trench and for the duration of the excavation Supervisors
Excavating works. to check all
the trench – controls in
water Hazardous 4A  Pumps: place and
charged atmosphere o Set-up outside or in extremely well-ventilated areas with no low-lying zones that would allow followed
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ground carbon monoxide to build up. Use Carbon Monoxide alarms where required
o Operate on a flat, level surface Workers to
o Clearance of at least 600mm (or as per manufacturer’s recommendations) on all sides of the follow controls
pump to allow sufficient ventilation for cooling vents and make
o At least 6m from flammable storages supervisor
aware of any
Environmental/ 4A  Do not discharge thee removed water into a location where it may cause damage to property or issues
Property the environment
Damage  The removed water must not be discharged, either directly or indirectly, into the sewer.
Contact with 4A  Upon discovery of any unexpected contaminants, work should immediately stop, and the principal
hazardous contractor notified. Examples:
material – o Discoloured soil, slimy or oily patches of ground
buried o Buried drums or other containers
contaminates o Petroleum products
o Strong, distinctive odours from the soil or water
o Waste material (e.g. Asbestos, clinical waste)
 Ensure the suspect material is not disturbed while waiting for appropriately trained personnel to
arrive on-site for identification
 All suspected material should be marked out (e.g. staked, flagged) and marked on a site map
 All applicable site personnel warned to avoid that area until directed otherwise
 Do not continue to work within the contaminated area until:
a) The area has decontaminated by licensed, competent contractors, and
b) The area has been assessed and cleared by approved persons for work to recommence.
13. HRCW Buried by 4A  No worker should be in a trench, or area that acts like a trench > 1.5m deep unless one or more Supervisors
Working in collapsing of the following occurs: to check all
trenches ground o Shoring by shielding or other comparable means controls in
>1.5m deep o Benching place and
o Battering followed
 Written advice from a geotechnical engineer that all sides of the trench are safe from collapse
 Consider: Workers to
o The type and strength of the batter (e.g. whether the ground is natural and self-supporting or follow controls
has been backfilled) and make
o The moisture content of the soil supervisor
o The angle of the slope aware of any
issues
o Whether groundwater is present
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o The height of the excavated face
o Other construction activity nearby that may cause vibration
 Never allow anyone to work alone in a trench or shaft. Make sure there is always another person
close by who can provide help or get help if necessary
 Work only from inside shored areas or from on top of stable backfill
 If conditions change during the work (for examples heavy rain/flooding) action should be taken
immediately to protect workers, other persons and property
 Implement appropriate control measures such as temporarily suspending work until the ground is
stable or, if necessary, providing positive ground support
 Minimise the length of the open trench by backfilling the trench or excavation ASAP
 Minimise plant and equipment movement near trench or excavations.
Falls 3H  Install effective barriers or barricades to prevent falls into a trench
 Never climb up, and down the trench shoring, this can loosen or damage the support system
 Ladders:
o Use industrial-grade portable ladders to gain access to the excavation floor if a ramp is not
available
o The ladder extends at least 1m above the place of landing
o Ladders are set up on a level area on firm footing with the base located approximately a
quarter of the vertical height of the ladder from the wall
o Secured against movement
 Ensure:
o Face ladder when ascending/descending. Ensure 3 points of contact remain on the ladder at
all times
o Load rating of at least 120kg
o Correct size and length for the job
o No damage, clean and dry
o Secured to work site (base and top)
o Ensure only 1 person on a ladder at a time.
Hazardous 4A  Do not use any plant that uses a combustion engine (for example air compressors, electrical
atmosphere generators) in an excavation if workers are present
 Ensure adequate ventilation (either natural or mechanical) before any person enters the
excavation.
The build-up of exhaust gases in the excavation, particularly carbon monoxide, can lead to a
person becoming unconscious or asphyxiated.

Business Name:
RESPONSIBLE
Exposure to 3H  Do not look directly at the laser beam
radiation  Using laser levels - ensure all persons operating laser have been trained and are competent in
causing eye the following:
trauma o Type of laser and hazards
o Intended use/limitations
o The need and use of PPE
o Safety signs
o Accident reporting procedures and bio-effects of the laser on eyes and the skin
14. HRCW Unauthorised 3H  If acceptable, remove or add barricades Supervisor to

On access  Ensure machine is parked in a safe, level area, clear of unstable or sloping ground confirm all
completion  Store the key in a safe place (restrict unauthorised access). workers have
signed out
Contact with 3H  Disconnect power tool/extension leads from power point before winding up so that you don’t get a
electricity shock if the lead is damaged Workers to
 Inspect leads and power equipment for damage. comply with
Inhalation of 3H  Use, maintain and store any respiratory protective equipment provided following instructions. controls
silica dust
Security breach 3H  All personnel sign-out on Site Register.
Vehicle/people 4A  Stay to designated access and egress routes
impact  Maintain awareness of surroundings at all times.
15. Emergency  Injury 4A  For police, fire or ambulance call ‘000.’  Refer to your SWMS Supervisors
response  Fatality  Follow site emergency and evacuation procedures implementing and workers
 Environmenta  A communication system is available, e.g. a mobile phone or radio instructions for further ensure
l damage  Check for dangers to self before helping others specific emergency controls
 Maintain control of the area and stabilise the situation responses. followed
 Apply first aid to the injured worker
 Complete an incident report.
OVERALL RISK RATING AFTER CONTROLS 1 - LOW 2 - MODERATE 3 - HIGH 4 - ACUTE
PERMITS Not applicable Hot Work Confined Space Local council ? ?

If yes – This SWMS must align with requirements of the Site
SITE MANAGEMENT PLAN Is the work associated with a Construction Project? Yes No Management Plan in place for the Construction Project.
PLANT & EQUIPMENT HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES SUPERVISORY ARRANGEMENTS
Business Name:
Electrical tools and leads Tested and tagged quarterly List hazardous substances taken on-site Audits
and have the SDS on-site. Spot Checks
Hand tools - Meet AS/NZS Regular visual inspection 1. Reporting systems
Ladders - Meet AS/NZS Inspected and tagged out if damaged 2. Suitably qualified supervisors for job
3.
Mobile plant-specify Inspected and tagged out if damaged Direct on-site supervision
4.
Remote site: communication
? 5.
systems/schedule
?
?
This SWMS developed in consultation and cooperation with workers and relevant organisation representatives. I have read the above SWMS, and
SWMS SIGN-OFF I understand its contents. I confirm that I have the skills and training, including relevant certification, to conduct the task as described.
I agree to comply with safety requirements within this SWMS, including risk control measures, safe work instructions, and PPE described.
JOB ROLE / POSITION LICENCES, COMPETENCIES & QUALIFICATIONS (add as applicable)
WORKERS’ NAME DATE SIGNATURE
E.G. SUPERVISOR, WORKER, TRAINEE TYPE / DESCRIPTION CLASS NUMBER
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card

Business Name:
This SWMS developed in consultation and cooperation with workers and relevant organisation representatives. I have read the above SWMS, and
SWMS SIGN-OFF I understand its contents. I confirm that I have the skills and training, including relevant certification, to conduct the task as described.
I agree to comply with safety requirements within this SWMS, including risk control measures, safe work instructions, and PPE described.
JOB ROLE / POSITION LICENCES, COMPETENCIES & QUALIFICATIONS (add as applicable)
WORKERS’ NAME DATE SIGNATURE
E.G. SUPERVISOR, WORKER, TRAINEE TYPE / DESCRIPTION CLASS NUMBER
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card
Construction Card


Excavation Working in Trenches Swms 10281-6

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EXCAVATION & WORKING IN TRENCHES SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS)

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

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DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

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LIKELIHOOD INSIGNIFICANT MINOR MODERATE MAJOR CATASTROPHIC

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DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

14. HRCW Unauthorised 3H  If acceptable, remove or add barricades Supervisor to

PERMITS Not applicable Hot Work Confined Space Local council ? ?

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

Business Address: ABN/NZBN:

DOCUMENT #: VERSION #: 1 DEVELOPED BY SIGNATURE: REVIEW #:

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