Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) are processes that are widely used in many workplaces (SWMS are a legislative requirement in certain circumstances).
An SWMS usually include the following information as a minimum:
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The job/task/activity to be performed.
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The person/team that put the SWMS together and who reviewed/approved it.
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Mandatory items that affect the whole job/task/activity (e.g. site rules, signage, personal protective equipment etc).
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A list of the job/task/activity steps and the hazards and risks associated with each step.
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The likelihood and consequence of each hazard or risk (i.e. risk assessment).
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The control measures that will be implemented to control the risk, and how these will be implemented and monitored.
Outsource Safety can develop SWMS for your organisation, or we can assist you in preparing your SWMS. Outsource Safety can also conduct training to any level of the organisation on the importance of risk management and the preparation of SWMS.
plant risk assessment
The term ‘plant’ is quite diverse and covers such things as machinery, equipment, tools, forklifts, cranes, conveyor belts and power tools.
Plant is a major cause of workplace death and serious injury in the workplace. Unsafe use, poor design or a lack of maintenance of plant and equipment pose significant risks to workers and visitors to your premises.
Managing the risks associated with plant should be part of a comprehensive safety management plan.
How "Outsource Safety" Can Help
At Outsource Safety we have skilled and experienced Health, Safety & Environmental consultants who can assess all types of mobile and fixed plant to determine what risks are present in your workplace and recommend practical control measures.
We keep up to date with all regulations and legislation so we can also advise you which plant needs to be on your workplace register and if any plant needs to be registered with the authorities.
A Plant Risk Assessment Includes:
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Site visits and inspections
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Observation of how and where each item of plant is used
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Review of safety information
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Review of incident records and data
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Identification and assessment of risks
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Written report detailing risks & suitable control measures
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Recommendations to assist with compliance to relevant legislation
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Plant register for required items
The Benefits
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A safer and healthier workforce
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A more productive workplace
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Reduction in accidents due to improved maintenance
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Peace of mind that legal risks are minimised
Your Duty In Relation To Plant Risk Assessment
Your primary duty as an employer is to provide and maintain a safe plant as well as ensure the safe use, handling, storage and transport of plant. Covered by WHS legislation, you are required to do all that is reasonably practicable to eliminate or minimise plant risks. In order to do that, you need to be aware of what can cause harm and then put in place controls to ensure no one is at risk while they are in your workplace or using plant.
You must also keep a record for plant that requires design or item registration including records of all tests, inspections, maintenance, commissioning, decommissioning, dismantling and alterations of the plant.
Types of Plant Hazards
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Mechanical
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Electrical
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Thermal
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Noise
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Vibration
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Radiation
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Ergonomic
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Materials and substances
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Operational
AREAS COVERED: Australia Wide
