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SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS) PART 1

ACTIVITY: SWMS #:
BUSINESS NAME: ABN:
BUSINESS ADDRESS:
BUSINESS CONTACT: PHONE #:

SWMS APPROVED BY: EMPLOYER / PCBU / DIRECTOR / OWNER.

NAME:
SIGNATURE: DATE:
PERSON/S RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING COMPLIANCE WITH SWMS:
PERSON/S RESPONSIBLE FOR REVIEWING THE SWMS:
RELEVANT WORKERS CONSULTED IN THE DEVELOPMENT, ALL PERSONS INVOLVED IN THE TASK MUST HAVE THIS SWMS
APPROVAL AND COMMUNICATION OF THIS SWMS. COMMUNICATED TO THEM BEFORE WORK COMMENCES.

NAME SIGNATURE DATE Daily Tool Box Talks will be undertaken to identify, control and communicate additional site hazards.

Work must cease immediately if incident or near miss occurs. SWMS must be amended in
consultation with relevant persons.

Amendments must be approved by ______________ and communicated to all affected workers

before work resumes.
SWMS must be made available for inspection or review as required by WHS legislation.

Record of SWMS must be kept as required by WHS legislation (until job is complete or for 2 years if
involved in a notifiable incident).

PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR DETAILS (The builder or the organisation you are working for.)
PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR (PC): PROJECT NAME: DATE SWMS PROVIDED TO PC:
PROJECT ADDRESS:
PROJECT MANAGER (PM): PM SIGNATURE: CONTACT PH. #:

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SWMS SCOPE: This SWMS covers general aspects associated with hazardous manual handling tasks in the building industry.

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THIS WORK ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE FOLLOWING “HIGH RISK CONSTRUCTION WORK”
☐ Confined Spaces ☑ Mobile Plant ☐ Demolition ☐ Asbestos

☐ 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 more than 2m, 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 risk of drowning

MOST
LIKELIHOOD INSIGNIFICANT MINOR MODERATE MAJOR CATASTROPHIC HIERARCHY OF CONTROLS EFFECTIVE
SCORE ACTION
ALMOST 3 3 4 4
4 ACUTE
CERTAIN HIGH HIGH ACUTE ACUTE

2 3 3 4 4A DO NOT
LIKELY 4 ACUTE
MODERATE HIGH HIGH ACUTE ACUTE PROCEED.

Review before
1 3 4 3H
POSSIBLE 2 MODERATE 4 ACUTE commencing
LOW HIGH ACUTE HIGH
work.

1 1 3 4 2M Maintain control
UNLIKELY 2 MODERATE
LOW LOW HIGH ACUTE MODERATE measures.

RARE
1 1
2 MODERATE
3 3 1L Record and ! LEAST
LOW LOW HIGH HIGH LOW monitor. EFFECTIVE

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE): ENSURE ALL PPE MEETS RELEVANT AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS. INSPECT, AND REPLACE PPE AS NEEDED.
FOOT HEARING HIGH HEAD EYE FACE HAND PROTECTIVE BREATHING SUN FALL
Rings, watches,
PROTECTION PROTECTION VISIBILITY PROTECTION PROTECTION PROTECTION PROTECTION CLOTHING PROTECTION PROTECTION ARREST jewellery that may
become entangled
in machines must
not be worn. Long
and loose hair must
be tied back.
! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

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☑ ☐ ☑ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☑ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☑
AS 1319-1994 SAFETY SIGNS FOR THE OCCUPATIONAL ENVIRONMENT REPRODUCED WITH PERMISSION FROM SAI GLOBAL UNDER LICENCE 1210-C062. STANDARDS MAY BE PURCHASED AT HTTP://
WWW.SAIGLOBAL.COM

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

1. Conduct a Musculoskeletal 3H 1. Using the Hazardous Manual 2M

risk (MSD) injuries ➔ Task Risk Assessment Form
assessment Muscles, ligaments, supplied in this SWMS identify
identifying nerves, tendons in your work activity and potential
potential the wrists, arms, risks
hazardous shoulders, neck or 2. Follow the associated controls
manual tasks legs, muscles, within this SWMS for the activity
ligaments or discs 3. If you identify any hazard that is
in the back. not covered in this SWMS, stop
the activity
Muscular Stress ➔ 4. Ensure a safe work method is
sprains, strains, developed for the task, in
temporary soft consultation with relevant
tissue injuries parties, before recommencing
the activity
Indirect Injuries ➔ 5. Ensure realistic work rates and
cuts / lacerations. adequate numbers of workers
for the task
6. Add the additional control to this
SWMS.

2. Training and Lack of training or 3H Ensure all persons entering site have a General Construction Induction Card (white card). 2M
Capabilities the assessment of
capability may lead Ensure all relevant workers have undertaken training and/or received instruction in the use
to personal injury, of control measures. Include:
property damage &/
or environmental • Manual handling
incident. • All workers are trained in this SWMS
• Reporting procedures for incidents
• Correct use of equipment including selecting, fitting, use, care of and maintenance
• Correct use of all tools used
• Use of supervision where required (e.g. new starters or new equipment)
• Ensure supervisors, foremen etc. are suitably experienced in the type work to be
conducted.

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

3. Work area set Pushing, pulling, 3H Use mechanical aids wherever possible. Ensure: 2M
up, lifting, carrying,
placement of setting down, • Working vehicle is suitable for the task of transporting tools, materials etc. e.g. van, utility -
equipment avoid lifting equipment from the boot of a sedan
and materials • Trolleys / ramps are used where required to remove equipment from vehicles and transfer
& of materials and equipment to the work area
construction • Licensing required for relevant powered mobile plant such as forklifts
installations • All operators to be trained and competent in the use of mechanical aids
e.g. • Use in accordance with manufacturers instructions
plasterboard, • Training to include:
painting,
concrete etc.

o Check that the lifting aid is correct

type and size for the intended work
o Pre-inspection requirements
o Safe Load Limit (SLL) or Safe Working Load (SWL)
o Positioning of items on the aid
o Safe movement of the aid
o Potential hazards in the work zone (plant /vehicles/people)
o Set up work area to minimize travel distance with loaded aid.
When using a lifting aid, ensure:

• Push rather than pull the aid

• Do not pull large loads towards yourself
• Do not jerk to get the aid moving
• Seek assistance if the load is too heavy or break down the load to make it lighter
• Never try to move or push a loaded aid or skid by hand
• Use proper lifting techniques when loading and unloading
When going down an incline push, don't pull.

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

Poor lighting ➔ 3H • Adequate lighting for internal works 2M

awkward postures • Lighting for night works
and movements • Keep lights and light fittings clean
• Bring the work closer to the operator.

Incorrect height and • Use adjustable work stations to accommodate the different heights of workers
placement of • Work station is set-up ergonomically where possible (avoid reaching too high, low, over-
equipment etc. ➔ reaching or other awkward postures)
poor posture, • Provide trestles / benches to place work pieces on to reduce manual handling risks
movements and (between shoulder and knee height)
forces

Unnecessary 3H • Housekeeping - keep work area clean, tidy and clutter free. 2M
manual handling • Ensure materials / equipment is as close to work area as possible.

Exposure to cold • Adequate onsite amenities providing water, warm drinks and shelter for breaks
conditions ➔ MSD • Job rotation.

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

Heat Exposure ➔ • Locate work area as far away as possible from sources of heat and hot processes
MSD o Provide screening
• Adequate ventilation
• If working indoors add fans for air circulation
• Alter work schedule so that the work can be done in the cooler part of the day
• Provide cool, well ventilated area for breaks
• Provide drinking water.

4. Operating Vibration ➔ 3H • Provide tools with anti-vibration or anti-kickback features where possible 2M
non-mobile Raynauds • Use shock-absorbing gloves as required (particularly in cold weather)
plant e.g. Syndrome/White • Use smallest tool needed for the task
jackhammers, Finger • Ensure all handles have appropriate grip covers installed e.g. rubber handlebar grips, not
power tools, bare metal
powder • Ensure standing on firm surface (standing on loose/unstable objects can accentuate
actuated tools vibration.
etc.

Repetitive and 3H Ensure: • Job rotation • Suspend / support heavier tools if used repetitively 2M
sustained tasks ➔ • Sufficient breaks • Mount tools e.g. drill stand.

Indirect Injuries ➔ 3H Ensure handles: • Comfortable grip 2M

cuts / lacerations, • No sharp edges.
blisters

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

Pushing, pulling, Tools and equipment used:

throwing, pressing
objects, high grip • Select suitable size, weight, type of handle, grip etc.
forces ➔ additional • Ensure triggers are long enough (approx. 5cm long) to allow activation by several fingers
forces on the hand, • Use triggers that can lock into place for use over longer periods (more than 30 seconds at
arm or wrist a time)
• Ensure handles:

o Are cylindrical and approx. 4cm in diameter

o Allow wrist to remain straight Comfortable grip
o Grip length approx. 12cm.

Exposure to cold Working outdoors. Ensure:

conditions ➔ MSD
• Appropriate protective clothing • Access to warm shelter during breaks
• Encourage workers to have adequate warm • Adequate breaks
drinks • Check weather conditions – do not
• Wear hand protection work in extreme cold.
• Wear non-slip footwear (slippery surfaces)

Heat Exposure ➔ Working outdoors. Ensure:

MSD
• Suitable protective clothing • Adequate drinking water
• Sun brim on hard hat • Access to shade during breaks
• Safety glasses - UV Rated • Adequate breaks
• Use 30+ sunscreen on exposed skin areas • Check weather conditions – do not
work in extreme heat.

Fatigue and shift • Adequate breaks during a shift for muscle recovery
work ➔ MSD • Adequate time between shifts for rest and recuperation
• Job rotation
• Where employees work shifts are longer than 8 hours, the pace and duration of repetitive
work or sustained effort should be reviewed and reduced where necessary.

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

Over reaching 3H • Use tools with extendable handles e.g. pole sander for sanding plasterboard. 2M

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

5. Operating Poor driver posture 3H • Ensure: Seat edges are rounded so the edges do not press into the thighs 2M
powered ➔ muscles, • Seat covering should allow air to circulate.
mobile plant ligaments, nerves,
and tendons in the Never jump from cabin. Access/exit using steps and hand rails.
wrists, arms,
shoulders, neck or A vehicle's interior must be adjustable so drivers of different heights and shapes can:
legs, muscles,
ligaments or discs • Reach the pedals and controls
in the back. • Have sufficient headroom Sit high enough to see out the front and side windows and
mirrors
• Reach the steering wheel without stretching the arms.

Adjust controls and seating:

• Steering Wheel:
o Objects and controls to be in easy reach to prevent unnecessary reaching
o Elbows and shoulders relaxed with hands positioned below shoulder level
• Headrest:
o Position centrally behind the head
• Mirrors:
o The rear view and side mirrors to ensure adequate vision of surrounding areas.
• Seat Height:
o Raise to ensure maximum road vision
o Ensure adequate clearance from roof
• Lower Limb Position:
o Knees bent comfortably to operate foot pedals
o Steering wheel should not touch top of legs
• Seat Plan:
o Thighs supported along length of cushion
o Avoid pressure behind knees
• Back Rest:
o Shoulders slightly behind hips
• Lumbar Support:

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

Whole body 3H • Refer to manufacturers manual regarding vibration with the selected tool 2M
vibration ➔ effect • Adjust existing vibration damping mechanisms
lower • Install a vibration isolating device where practicable / possible
back • Avoid uneven or loosely compacted roads as much as possible in travel plan.

Ensure regular maintenance and service of equipment and tools can reduce the
force required to operate them.

Exposure to heat • Adequate onsite amenities providing water, warm drinks and shelter for breaks
and cold conditions • Ensure vehicle cabin is air conditioned
➔ MSD • Appropriate protective clothing
• Check weather conditions – do not work in extreme weather.

Driving in wet • Check weather conditions – do not work in extreme weather

conditions ➔ MSD • Conduct vehicle pre-inspection as per manufacturers instructions
• Ensure good tyre tread
• Vehicle lights are working
• Windscreen and lights are clean
• Drive slowly avoiding aquaplaning and skidding
• Drive with your lights on low beam (it is easier to see with low beam in fog)
• Use your air conditioner or demister to keep your windscreen clear of condensation
• Double the distance between you and the car in front
• Avoid breaking suddenly or accelerating or turning quickly reducing your chances of
skidding
• Avoid driving on unsealed roads
• Use road line markings to stay in the middle of your lane—in wet weather it is more
important than ever to stay in the correct position on the road
• Do not drive on roads covered with water (even partially covered)
• Watch out for soil movement.

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

Fixed seat in a This risk is prevalent in road making machinery.

forward position ➔
repetitive or Ensure vehicle has:
sustained twisting
of the neck and • Swivel seat mount
body when • Two sets of controls or, controls that move with the seat.
reversing
Visibility problems • Ensure mirrors are undamaged and clean
➔ neck and back • Install visual aids such as revering cameras.
strain
Fatigue and shift • Adequate breaks during a shift
work ➔ MSD • Adequate time between shifts for rest and recuperation.

Prolonged seating 3H Ensure the driver: 2M

➔ effect lower
back • Adequate breaks throughout the shift to allow for movement e.g. go for a walk
• Does not exceed regulated driving hours
• Provide adequate lumber support.

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POTENTIAL HAZARD/ RESPONSIBLE

JOB STEP IR CONTROL MEASURES TO REDUCE RISK RR
S PERSON
INHERENT RISK-RATING (IR) RESIDUAL RISK-RATING (RR)

6. Working near Contact with mobile 3H Check constantly for changing hazards while working and monitor work position at all times. 2M
powered plant or passing
mobile plant vehicle Ensure:

• High visibility clothing worn at all times

• Do not stand behind reversing vehicles
• Allow sufficient distance from plant during operation (allow sufficient room for equipment
failure – such as arm/boom failure or plant rollover)
• No work is conducted in established “no go zones” for pedestrians
• Alertness at all times. Listen for:
o Reversing alarms/beepers
o Calls from Plant Operators
• Safety/warning signs, Spotters, traffic barriers etc. must be obeyed as required
• Work positions should be in clear sight of plant operators
• Follow traffic management plan requirements.

NOTE: Some traffic management plans may say that pedestrians have right-of-way. Never
assume this. Make visual and verbal contact with plant operator as required.

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EMERGENCY RESPONSE - CALL 000 IMMEDIATELY.

If work is to be conducted on a construction site (or a site controlled by another Employer / Ensure workers have access to:
PCBU) follow the site-specific Emergency Management Plan. Ensure: • First aid kit/supplies
• Adequate numbers of first aid trained staff are on site when working at heights occurs • First Aid trained personnel familiar with Resuscitation and emergency
• First aiders are trained and competent in managing injuries associated with demolition until response for electric shock
emergency services arrive • M/SDS
• All rescue equipment is in good condition, available for use and in close proximity to the • Communication devices (check mobile phones will have service in area)
work site. • Suitable fire protection equipment.

SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS) PART 2

FORMAL TRAINING, LICENCES REQUIRED FOR WORKERS RELEVANT LEGISLATION & CODES OF PRACTICE
UNDERTAKING THIS TASK: ❖Retain only the legislation references applicable to your state of operation for this SWMS.
Delete or add as relevant Commonwealth, NSW, QLD, ACT Victoria:
Licence to Perform High Risk Work (operating certain Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Occupational Health & Safety Act 2004
plant, equipment) Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 Occupational Health & Safety Regulations 2007
TAFE or other recognised training organisation Northern Territory Compliance Codes: WorkSafe Victoria (2008): Compliance
Construction Induction Card (or equivalent) Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Code:
Competent in operation of make/model of plant Act 2011 Communicating OHS Across Languages
Emergency procedures – emergency response Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Workplace Amenities and Work Environment
PPE Regulations Codes of Practice: WorkSafe Victoria
Traffic Management Plans SA, Tasmania (1990): No. 13: Building and Construction Workplaces
Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (2000): No. 25: Manual Handling
Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012 (1995): No. 19: Plant
Codes of Practice: Safe Work Australia (2011): (1998): No. 23: Plant (Amendment No. 1)
DETAILS OF SUPERVISORY ARRANGEMENTS FOR WORKERS Construction Work Western Australia
UNDERTAKING THIS TASK: Managing the Risk of Plant in the Workplace Occupational Safety & Health Act 1984
How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Occupational Safety & Health Regulations 1996
Delete or add as relevant Hazardous Manual Tasks Codes of Practice:
Suitably qualified supervisors for job WHS Consultation, Cooperation & Coordination
Direct on-site supervision Managing the Work Environment and Facilities
Remote site – communication systems/ schedule
Audits
Spot Checks, etc.
Reporting systems

DETAILS OF: REGULATORY PERMITS/LICENSES

ENGINEERING DETAILS/CERTIFICATES/WORKCOVER. APPROVALS:
Delete or add as relevant
Local council permits PLANT/TOOLS/EQUIPMENT LIST FOR THE JOB. REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
Authorisation to work

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Authorisation to work
Confined Space Permit (Make & Model)
Building Approvals
EPA approvals/permits
Certain plant to be registered with State Authority
PPE to comply with relevant Australian Standards

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SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS) PART 3

This SWMS has been developed in consultation and cooperation with employee/workers and relevant Employer/Persons Conducting Business or Undertaking (PCBU). I have read
the above SWMS and 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 Personal Protective Equipment described.

OVERALL RISK RATING AFTER

□ 1 LOW ☑ 2 MODERATE □ 3 HIGH □ 4 ACUTE
CONTROLS

EMPLOYER/PCBU/
EMPLOYEE/WORKER NAME JOB ROLE / POSITION SIGNATURE DATE TIME
SUPERVISOR

REVIEW: Ensure all controls are reviewed as per the following: MONITOR: To ensure controls are implemented and monitored effectively:
• If controls fail to reduce risk adequately • Toolbox /pre-work meetings will be undertaken
• When changes to the workplace or work activity occur that create new / different risks where • Relevant persons will be consulted on hazards and contents of
controls may no longer be effective SWMS, work plans and other applicable information
• New hazards identified • Control measures will be monitored throughout works:
• After an incident involving work activities relevant to this SWMS * Spot checks * Consultation * Scheduled audits
• During consultation with relevant persons indicate review is needed Corrective actions will be recorded and rectified in a timely manner SWMS
• A Health and Safety Representative (HSR) requests a review in line with the requirements of the will be reviewed and updated accordingly (in consultation with relevant
legislation. persons).

REVIEW NO. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
NAME:

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INITIAL:
DATE:

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HAZARDOUS MANUAL TASK RISK ASSESSMENT FORM

Location of Task: Management Rep: Date of assessment:
Description of hazardous manual task: Health and Safety Rep:
Workers, others (consultants etc.):
Reason for ⬜ Existing task Does the task ⬜ Postures As a guide;
Identification: ⬜ New task involve: ⬜ Forces • Repetitive means the movement or force is
⬜ Change in task, object or tool ⬜ Repetitive movements performed more than twice a minute
⬜ Report of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) ⬜ Sustained movements • Sustained means the posture or force is held for
⬜ New information more than 30 seconds at a time.

Where ‘yes’ is ticked enter Column 6 - Control options.

Environmental Factors Yes No N/A control option/s from Column (These are example risk controls and the list is not
6 or enter alternative control/s exhaustive).
Example: Is their hand, arm or whole body vibration? ☑ ☐ ☐ M&O A. Automate or isolate processes
Is their hand, arm or whole body vibration? ☐ ☐ ☐ B. Use remote controlled processes to isolate
Hot working conditions ☐ ☐ ☐ workers from vibration sources

Cold working conditions ☐ ☐ ☐ C. Isolate workers from vibration sources through

the use of dampening or suspension systems
Wet working conditions ☐ ☐ ☐
D. Redirect cold exhaust air
Workers being jolted or continuously shaken ☐ ☐ ☐

Driving for long periods ☐ ☐ ☐ E. Improve ventilation and air circulation

Driving on rough roads ☐ ☐ ☐ F. Provide shade

Frequent use of hand powered tools or use for long ☐ ☐ ☐ G. Provide thermal screens/barriers
periods
H. Provide sheltered walkways/wind barriers
Using high grip forces or awkward postures when ☐ ☐ ☐
using power tools
I. Provide lighting suited to the task

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I. Provide lighting suited to the task
Use of machines or tools where the manufacturer’s ☐ ☐ ☐
handbook warns of vibrating J. Insulate hot/cold items or tools

K. Select alternative lower vibration equipment

L. Use balancers/tensioners

M. Use vibration damping materials

N. Maintain equipment

O. Provide rest breaks and task variation

P. Ensure workloads and deadlines are

achievable
Q. Allow workers some latitude to influence the
rate and pace of work

R. Monitor and control overtime and shiftwork

S. Provide training and supervision

Where ‘yes’ is ticked enter Column 6 - Control options.

Postures and Movements Yes No N/A control option/s from Column (These are example risk controls and the list is not
6 or enter alternative control/s exhaustive).
Bending or twisting the back forwards, sideways or ☐ ☐ A. Automate or mechanise the task, especially
☐
backwards repetitive functions
B. Modify operation or production method
Bending or twisting the neck or head forwards, ☐ ☐ ☐
sideways or backwards C. Use bulk handling methods
Working with one or both hands above shoulder ☐ ☐ ☐
D. Ensure the equipment accounts for differences
height
in worker size, shape and physical ability – i.e.
Reaching forwards or sideways more than 30cm from ☐ ☐ ☐ adjustable or fixed to suit all workers
the body E. Ensure working heights are matched to the
task and the worker
Reaching behind the body ☐ ☐ ☐ F. Ensure items are within reaching distance
Excessive bending of the wrist ☐ ☐ ☐
G. Place items where the person can be in a
comfortable symmetrical posture when

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Where ‘yes’ is ticked enter Column 6 - Control options.

Postures and Movements Yes No N/A control option/s from Column (These are example risk controls and the list is not
6 or enter alternative control/s G. Place items where exhaustive).
the person can be in a
Twisting, turning, grabbing, or wringing actions with ☐ ☐ ☐ comfortable symmetrical posture when
the fingers, hands or arms handling
H. Provide seating that matches the needs of the
Squatting, kneeling, crawling, lying, semi-lying or ☐ ☐ ☐ task and the worker – i.e. adjustable seating
jumping for multiple workers
I. Alter the size or shape of the load
Standing with most of the body’s weight on one leg ☐ ☐ ☐ J. Use power tools
Lifting or lowering ☐ ☐ ☐
K. Ensure tools are suitable for the task
Carrying with one hand or one side of the body ☐ ☐ ☐
L. Ensure tools orient the arm, hand and wrist in a
Exerting force with one hand or one side of the body ☐ ☐ ☐ power grip position
M.Provide rest breaks and task variation
Pushing, pulling and dragging ☐ ☐ ☐

Very fast actions ☐ ☐ ☐ N. Ensure workloads and deadlines are

achievable
Working with the fingers close together or wide apart ☐ ☐ ☐ O. Allow workers some latitude to influence the
rate and pace of work
Applying uneven, fast or jerky forces ☐ ☐ ☐
☐ ☐ ☐ P. Monitor and control overtime and shiftwork
Holding, supporting or restraining anything (including Q. Provide training and supervision
a person, animal or tool)

Where ‘yes’ is ticked enter Column 6 - Control options.

Duration Yes No N/A control option/s from Column (These are example risk controls and the list is not
6 or enter alternative control/s exhaustive).
Is the task performed more than 2 hours over a whole A. Provide rest breaks and task variation
☐ ☐ ☐
shift? B. Allow workers some latitude to influence the
rate and pace of work
Is the task performed continually for more than 30 C. Monitor and control overtime and shiftwork
☐ ☐ ☐
minutes at a time

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Where ‘yes’ is ticked enter Column 6 - Control options.

High or Sudden Forces Yes No N/A control option/s from Column 6 (These are example risk controls and the list is not
or enter alternative control/s exhaustive).
Lifting, lowering or carrying heavy loads ☐ ☐ ☐ A. Automate or mechanise the task, especially
tasks that are repetitive
Throwing or catching ☐ ☐ ☐ B. Modify operation or production method
Use bulk handling methods
Hitting or kicking or jumping ☐ ☐ ☐

Applying a sudden or unexpected force including: ☐ ☐ ☐ C. Provide a means for attaching mechanical
• Handling a live person or animal or aids for lifting to the load
• Applying uneven, fast or jerky forces during lifting, D. Use jigs to hold or support the items
carrying, pushing or pulling or
• Pushing or pulling objects that are hard to move or E. Alter the workplace so mechanical aids can be
stop e.g. a trolley used and are accessible
F. Reduce weight and dimensions of the load
Exerting force while in a bent, twisted or awkward ☐ ☐ ☐
posture including: G. Reduce the number of items handled at one
• Supporting items with hands that are above time Provide handles, hand-holds or cut-outs
shoulder height or to improve grip
• Moving items when legs are in an awkward
posture, working with fingers pinched together or H. Reduce amount of manipulation required (use
held wide apart mechanical aids)
• Using a finger grip or pinch grip or an open handed I. Modify the load so mechanical aids can be
grip used
J. Use power tools
Exerting a force with the non-preferred hand ☐ ☐ ☐

Needing to use two hands to operate a tool designed ☐ ☐ ☐ K. Ensure tools are suitable for the task
for one hand
L. Use lightweight tools where possible
The task can only be done for short periods of time ☐ ☐ ☐
M. Use tool counterbalances
Two or more people need to be assigned to handle a ☐ ☐ ☐
heavy, awkward or bulky load N. Ensure tool handles fit workers comfortably
O. Maintain tools and equipment
Workers report pain or significant discomfort during or ☐ ☐ ☐
after the task
P. Provide rest breaks and task variation
Stronger workers assigned to do the task ☐ ☐ ☐
Q. Ensure workloads and deadlines are
Workers say the task is physically very strenuous or ☐ ☐ ☐ achievable
difficult to do
R. Allow workers some latitude to influence the

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Where ‘yes’ is ticked enter Column 6 - Control options.

High or Sudden Forces Yes No N/A control option/s from Column 6 (These are example risk controls and the list is not
or enter alternative control/s exhaustive).
R. Allow workers some latitude to influence the
☐ ☐ ☐ rate and pace of work
Workers think the task should be done by more than
one person, or seek help to do the task as it requires S. Monitor and control overtime and shiftwork
high force T. Provide training and supervision

DOCUMENT #: 10168 VERSION #: 5 AUTHORISED BY: REVIEW #: ISSUE DATE: REVISION DATE:
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