safety method statement

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DOCUMENT NO: 10158 VERSION NO: 2 ACTIVITY: LP/ED AUTHORISED BY: REVIEW NO: DATE:

© SafetyCulture All Rights Reserved

ACTIVITY: Mower - Walk behind – powered, cylinder, electric SWMS No.:

SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS) - Part 1

Company Name: Address: ABN:

Company Contact: Position: Phone No.:

Project Details

Project:

Insert Photo

Job Address:

Job Description:

Relevant workers must be consulted in the development, approval and communication of this SWMS: SWMS Approved by Employer/PCBU/Director/Owner :Print NameName: (Include names of workers who were

consulted in relation to the development of

this SWMS)

Signature: Job Title: Date:

Signature:

Date:

Name of Principal Contractor: Principal Contractor Company Name:

Date SWMS provided to Principal Contractor: Principal Contractor Signature: Date:

Name of person responsible for ensuring compliance with SWMS: Signature: Date:

Design & Layout

More professional presentation

More user friendly for customising

Reduced blank spaces

Clever use of formatting to reduce page

numbers and increasing information

Added

“Internal SWMS No”

Added

“Principal Contractor Details”

Added

“Optional Photo Space”



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o pushing, pulling, awkwardtwisting, bending positions

- Noise – long term exposure- Hot surface- Hazardous Atmosphere

-Hazardous Chemical – singleexposure (Petrol, Diesel, lubricants)

- Unguarded plant- Uneven or slippery surface- Static Electricity - refuelling- Fluids under pressure- Work outdoors.

- Eye injuries- Muscular

stress/Musculoskeletal Disorder- Deafness, hearing loss- Explosion/Fire causing burns,

smoke inhalation multipleinjuries or death

- Slips, trips and falls causingstrains, sprains, bruising,fractures

- Chemical burns - eye or skininjury from chemical splash

- Fluid injection injury- Electric shock/Electrocution- Illness or death caused by

exposure to hazardouschemicals

- Sunburn.

Liaise with Principal Contractor to establish that the following on-site systems and procedures are in place:- Health and Safety rules- Induction for all workers – site specific- Supervisory arrangements- Communication

-Injury reporting

- Hazard reporting- Personal Protective Equipment- Exclusion Zones- Risk Assessments- SWMS and JSA’s.

Ensure mower is suitable for task (area to be mowed, rocky terrain etc).

Develop traffic management plan if required (i.e. working in close proximity to mobile plant or roadside work).

All operators/workers to be trained and competent to operate the cylinder, pet rol or electric walk behindmower. Ensure all operators:

- Attend any site induction and toolbox talks- Follow safety procedures

-Follow the operational manual for the machine they are operating

- Take adequate breaks to reduce manual handling injuries- Have access to drinking water.

Training of operators must include:- Review of operating manual- Comprehensive operating instructions- Read and review the SWMS- Location of any guards- Adjustment of guards- Removal of guards for maintenance work including restrictions on who may do the work- Actions, including who and how to notify, if a guard is found removed or missing- Practical instructions on how to replace any blades.

-Emergency procedures

- Adjustment of the engine revs with the throttle to the correct speed.- Cylinder mower: Practice in manoeuvring the mower without the cutting cylinder rotating.

RB: 3H Person responsible to implement control measures: RA: 2M

We are still providing the “RB”

“Person responsible”

“RA” option

Added

“Principal Contractor Liaise” Aligns with new requirements

in WHS regulations



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Job Step: Preparation Hazards include:- Plant operation- Entanglement in shaft- Electricity

-Flying / ejected materials

- Hazardous Manual Tasks:o lifting, carrying, putting down

objectso repetitious movementso vibrationo pushing, pulling, awkward

twisting, bending positions- Noise – long term exposure- Hot surface- Hazardous Atmosphere- Hazardous Chemical – single

exposure (Petrol, Diesel, lubricants)

-Unguarded plant

- Uneven or slippery surface- Static Electricity - refuelling- Fluids under pressure- Work outdoors.

Risks include:- Crushing from mower roll over

causing serious injury- Being run over/ struck by

mower causing serious injury/death

- Laceration/amputation fromunguarded blades

- Being hit by ejected materials- Burns- Eye injuries- Muscular



-Slips, trips and falls causingstrains, sprains, bruising,fractures




- Sunburn.

Ensure:- Adequate lighting (dayligh t only)- Electric models not used in inclement weather- Operator not fatigued or under influence of drugs/alcohol

-Hair tied back, no loose clothing or jewelry

- Operator able to handle force/weight of unit.

Ensure operating manual available for particular walk behind mower eg petrol, electric or cylinder.

Working outdoors. Ensure:- Suitable protective clothing/footwear- Sun brim on hard hat- Safety glasses - UV Rated- Use 30+ sunscreen on exposed skin areas- Adequate drinking wa ter- Access to shade during b reaks- Be aware of snakes if work area has long grass or dense vegetation

- Adequate breaks

- Check weather conditions – do not work in extreme weather.

Inspect intended work area:- Check for pits, gradients, uneven terrain- Low lying branches- Clear stones, sticks, glass or other solid objects from area.


Job Step: Noise

Hazards include:- Noise - long term exposure.

Risks include:- Hearing Loss.

Refer to Noise Control SWMS for detailed information regarding the prevention of hearing loss andlegislative requirements.

The noise level generated by mower in operation will need to be assessed and determined prior tocommencement of the job (use the manufacturer’s manual to gather information, in conjunction with noisetesting equipment)

Added “Noise” Section (Detailed

information for tasks involving

work that may exceed NoiseExposure levels)



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Employer / A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) has specific obligations under the WHSRegulations to manage the risks of hearing loss associated with noise at the workplace, including:

- Ensuring that the noise a worker is exposed to at the workplace does not exceed the exposurestandard for noise (85dB averaged)

- Providing audiometric testing to a worker who is frequently required to use PPE to protect the

worker from hearing loss associated with noise that exceeds the exposure standard- Whether the noise exposure standard of 85 dB(A) averaged over eight hours is exceeded

depends on the level of noise involved and how long workers are exposed to it.If a formal Noise Assessment is required, a competent person in accordance with the relevant AustralianStandard should do it.

Hearing Protection for operators is required, ensure:- It is worn by the operator throughout the period of exposure to noise- Is suitable for the noise level- Is comfortable and correctly fitting for the operator- It is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it remains in good, clean condition.

When choosing hearing protection for operators consider:- Overprotecting by cutting out too much sound can cause difficulties hearing other sounds needed

to work safely- Ear-muffs can be uncomfortable to wear in hot environments- Wearing PPE can make it difficult for the worker to wear a helmet- That long hair can be tied back so it does not impact on correct fit.

Audiometric Testing. If Audiometric testing is required it must: - Be provided within three months of the worker commencing work- Be started before people are exposed to hazardous noise (such as new workers or those

changing jobs)- Provide a baseline as a reference for future audiometric test results- Have follow-up tests carried out at least every two years.- Be carried out with consultation with your workers and their health and safety representatives-

Be carried out by competent persons in accordance with the procedures in the relevant AustralianStandard.Workers should be given the results of audiometric testing accompanied by a written explanation of themeaning and implications.


New WHS regulations

requirements for“Audiometric Testing”

v



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Hazardous Manual Handling:- Avoid long periods of repet itive movements- Avoid awkward and sustained positions- Use mechanical lifting aids when possible- Use two or more people for lifting & moving heavy / awkward equipment

-Regular breaks.


Job Step: Operational Hazards include:- Plant operation- Entanglement in shaft- Electricity- Flying / ejected materials- Hazardous Manual Tasks:

o lifting, carrying, putting downobjects

o repetitious movements

o

vibration


- Noise – long term exposure- Hot surface- Hazardous Atmosphere- Hazardous Chemical – single

exposure (Petrol, Diesel, lubricants)- Unguarded plant- Uneven or slippery surface- Static Electricity - refuelling- Fluids under pressure- Work outdoors.

Risks include:- Crushing from mower roll over

causing serious injury- Being run over/ struck by

mower causing serious injury/death

- Laceration/amputation fromunguarded blades

- Being hit by ejected materials

-Burns

- Eye injuries- Muscular





-Fluid injection injury

- Electric shock/Electrocution- Illness or death caused by


Keep hands and feet clear of the blades and other moving parts.

Never:- Operate in a confined space where exhaust fumes (carbon monoxide) can collect- Lift, carry or tilt the mower when the engine is running- Never mow by pulling mower towards you (You may slip and pull the mower on top of your feet)- Run with mower (Mow at walking pace only)- Tilt when engine running (or during start-up).

The safety distance determined by the guiding handles must be maintained at all times. At the completion of mowing, always turn the mower off using the throttle lever then turn fuel tap off (where fitted).

Ensure other persons remain at least 15m from operator. Immediately shut off if approached.Follow manufacturer’s instructions for start-up and operation. Start on level grassed area only.Keep hands/feet clear of blades.

Avoid pulling mower. If necessary, check behind when walking backwards.

Remain attentive. Focus approximately 1m in front of mower.

Stop/shut off before crossing roads, paths, gravel etc.

Stop/shut off before adjusting cutting height or removing grass catcher.

Mow across slopes (not up and down). The split ratchet rear roller on some cylinder models will freewheeldown hill.

Do not:-

Leave unattended when running- Alter the governor settings- Lift, carry or tilt when running.

If obstruction:- Stop mower- Check blades for damage.



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- Sunburn. If damaged, do not use. Follow lock out/tag out procedures.

Ensure grass is cleaned from unit.

Where washport fitted, attach hose and clean as required.If no washport, avoid water-contacting engine. Only hose underside of unit.

Run engine briefly to dry before storing.On Keystart models keep the battery, starter switch, starter motor and all leads dry.

Check for damage. If detected, report and follow tag out/lock out procedures.

Additional information - Electrical mowers: The electric motor has been designed for one voltage only. Always check that the power supply corresponds to the voltage on the rating plate.

If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by an electrician or a power tool repairer in order to avoida hazard.

Before use, examine cord for damage; replace it if there are signs of damage or ageing.

Do not use the lawn mower if the electric cables are damaged or worn.

Immediately disconnect from the mains electricity supply if the cord is cut, or the insulation is damaged. Donot touch the electric cord until the electricity supply has been disconnected. Do not repair a cut or damaged

cord; replace it with a new one.Your extension lead must be unwound, coiled leads can overheat and reduce the efficiency of your mower.

Avoid operating your lawn mower in wet grass,Do not put hands near the grass discharge chute.Keep lead away from lawn mower; always work away from the power point mowing up and down never in circles.

Do not pull lead around sharp objects.

Always switch off at the mains before disconnect ing any plug, cord or extension lead.

Never:- Put hands or feet near a rotating blade (Amputation may occur)- Pick up or carry a mower when it is operating or still connected to the mains supply- Mow in the rain-

Leave mower outdoors while raining- Carry the product by the cord- Pull on the cord to disconnect any of the plugs.

Use only AC mains supply voltage shown on the product-rating label.

Technical content has been

reviewed, upgraded to

enhance relevance &

accuracy to activity.

(refer to Controls column)

Particular focus on High

Risk Activities such as:

heights, confined spaces,

remote/isolated work etc.

Plain language used, less

jargon.



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It is recommended that the appliance should be supplied via a residual current device (RCD) with a trippingcurrent of not more than 30 mA.

Always: Remove the plug from the mains:- Before leaving the mower unattended for any period- Before clearing a blockage

-Before checking, cleaning or working on the appliance

- If you hit an object. Do not use your lawn mower until you are sure that the entire lawn mower is ina safe operating condition

- If the lawn mower starts to vibrate abnormally. Check immediately. Excessive vibration can causeinjury.

On multi-bladed appliances, take care as rotating one blade can cause other blades to rotate.

On/Off Switch: To prevent accidental start up of the motor the mower is designed with a dual action switch.To start, press the button and pull the lever. The motor automatically stops upon the releasing the lever.

WARNING! The blade will coast after the switch has been released. Be aware of the necessary time it takesfor the blade to stop coasting. Do not try to stop the blade from coasting, allow it to stop by itself.

How to mow:-

Mow the outside edge of the lawn in a clockwise direction first- Then start mowing the edge of the lawn nearest to the power point so the lead is laid out on the

lawn you have already cut- For best grass collection, always mow in a straight line; do not swing the lawn mower from side to side.

RB: 4A Person responsible to implement control measures: RA: 3H

Job Step: Re-fuelling

Hazards include:- Explosion- Fire- Hazardous Chemical – single exposure

(Petrol, Diesel, lubricants)- Static Electricity.

Risks include:- Burns caused by fire- Electric Shock- Explosion causing injury or death- Single exposure to hazardous

chemical causing illness or death.

Read the current (issue date within 5 years) Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all fuel products before use.Follow manufacturer’s instructions for more details for re-fuelling.

Additional PPE if any risk of splashing - Chemical splash goggles, chemical resistant gloves/gauntlets,boots, and apron.

Note:- Avoid breathing vapours o r contact with fuel

-If clothing is splashed with fuel, change it immediately

- Ensure re-fuelling is undertaken in well-ventilated area, clear of ignition sources.Re-fuelling: (Refuel the mower outdoors only)

- Shut off engine- Allow to cool before re-fuelling if possible



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- Remove cap slowly- Use a fuel hose, pouring spout or funnel- Fill tank and wipe away excess- Ensure there is no over spill- Ensure cap has been secured and any vapour residue has been wiped away

-Check for leaks.

Note: Do not eat, drink or smoke after handling fuel until hands are carefully washed. Shower and washimmediately after work. Wash clothes in separate wash from other clothes.

Note: Ignition sources include pilot lights, stoves, heaters, cigarettes, matches/lighters, grinding, welding,powerpoints, lighting, light switches, radio transmitters, mobile phones, battery powered forklifts etc.

Store fuel in a cool place and in a container specifically designed for the purpose.

On completion always:- Return mower to storage area- Turn off mower- Clean all equipment- Conduct visual inspection for any damaged/missing equipment- If detected, apply lock/tag out procedures and report immediately.

Store mower in a well ventilated area, away from any ignition sources. Note: Ignition sources include pilot lights, stoves, heaters, cigarettes, matches/lighters, grinding, welding,powerpoints, lighting, light switches, radio transmitters, mobile phones, battery powered forklifts etc.

RB: 4A Person responsible to implement control measures: RA: 3H

Job Step: Maintenance Hazards include:- Entanglement in shaft- Electricity- Hazardous Manual Tasks:

o lifting, carrying, putting downobjects


- Hot surface- Hazardous Atmosphere- Hazardous Chemical – single

exposure (Petrol, Diesel, lubricants)

Risks include:- Laceration/amputation from

unguarded blades- Burns- Eye injuries- Muscular stress- Explosion/Fire causing burns,



Ensure lock out/tag out procedures are followed before conducting maintenance (eg: remove sparkplug/disconnect battery).Electrical models – Disconnect the mower from the power supply and ensure the blade has stoppedcoasting before adjusting the height.Ensure all servicing, maintenance and repairs are performed by suitably qualified and competent persons.Stop the engine before clearing obstructions or working on the mower and remove spark plug.

- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for regular maintenance

- Replace worn or damaged parts- Ensure only replacement parts recommended by manufacturer are used- Check blades and air filters regularly- Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the appliance is in safe working condition- Check the grass catcher frequently for wear or deterioration.



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- Unguarded plant- Uneven or slippery surface- Fluids under pressure- Work outdoors.




- Sunburn.

ALWAYS HANDLE THE BLADE WITH CARE – SHARP EDGES COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY.USE GLOVES.Safety signs and decals should be legible, maintained and, where necessary, replaced.Keep logbook of service and maintenance history.

Use only fuels and lubricants that meet the manufacturer’s specifications.

-Check blades for wear and tear (if badly worn or cracked replace immediately with new bolts and nuts)

- Grease all grease points- Change oil and filter- Check battery for corrosion.


Emergency Procedures / Emergency Response

Emergency Response: Call 000 immediately if a serious incident or a dangerous situation occurs.Develop and implement an emergency response plan for the site. Include:

- Assembly points- Communication- Consultation methods-

Responsible persons- First aid equipment- Fire Extinguishers – accessible & serviced- Emergency contacts - names and phone numbers.

Develop site-specific rescue procedures/SWMS

Ensure all workers on-site are trained and familiar with emergency and evacuationprocedures.

Person/s responsible to implement and follow emergency procedures and controlmeasures:

Review

To ensure controls are implemented and monitored effectively:

• Toolbox /pre-work meetings will be undertaken

• Relevant persons will be consulted on hazards and contents of SWMS, workplans and other applicable information

• Control measures will be monitored throughout works:o Spot checkso Consultation

o

Scheduled audits

• Corrective actions will be recorded and rectified in a timely manner SWMS willbe reviewed and updated accordingly (in consultation with relevant persons)

Ensure all controls are reviewed as per the following:

• If controls fail to reduce risk adequately

• When changes to the workplace or work activity occur that create new /different risks where controls may no longer be effective

• New hazards identified

• After an incident involving work activities relevant to this SWMS

• During consultation with relevant persons indicate review is needed

•

A Health and Safet y Representative (HSR) requests a review in line with therequirements of the legislation.

Person/s responsible to implement and follow monitoring and review procedures and control measures:

New requirements for

“Monitoring & Reviewing”

in WHS regulations



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SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT - Part 2

Formal Training, Licences required for workers undertaking this task: Duties of workers undertaking this task: Details of Supervisory Arrangements for workers undertaking this task:

Example:

-Licence to Perform High Risk Work(operating certain plant, equipment)

- TAFE or other recognised trainingorganisation

- Construction Induction Card (or equivalent)

- Competent in operation of

make/model of plant- Emergency procedures –

emergency response- PPE- Traffic Management Plans

Example:

(Name): Operator(Name: Clean-up crew(Name): SupervisorEtc.

Example:

-Suitably qualified supervisors for job

- Direct on-site supervision- Remote site – communication

systems/ schedule

- Audits

-Spot Checks, etc.

- Reporting systems

Details of: regulatory permits/licensesEngineering Details/Certificates/WorkCoverApprovals:

Relevant Legislation, Codes of Practice:Note: Retain only the legislation & Codes of Practice references applicable to your state of operation for this SWMS

Example:- Local council permits- Building Approvals- EPA approvals/permits- Certain plant to be registered with State Authority

PPE to comply with relevant Australian Standards

• Commonwealth, NSW, QLD, ACT

o Work Health and Safety Act 2011o Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011

• Northern Territoryo Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Act 2011o Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations

•

SA, Tasmaniao Work Health and Safety Act 2012o Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012

• Codes of Practice: Safe Work Australia (2011): o Construction Work o First Aid in the Workplaceo Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaceso Managing the Risk of Plant in the Workplaceo Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss in the Workplaceo How to Manage Work Health and Safety Riskso Hazardous Manual Taskso Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicalso Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplaceo WHS Consultation, Cooperation & Coordination

• Victoria

o Occupational Health & Safety Act 2004o Occupational Health & Safety Regulations 2007o Codes of Practice:

• Western Australiao Occupational Safety & Health Act 1984 o

Occupational Safety & Health Regulations 1996 o Codes of Practice:

• Australian Standards: o AS/NZS1269: 2005 Occupational noise management o AS/NZS 4501:2008 (set) Occupational Protective Clothing o AS4024.1: 1996 Safeguarding of machinery - General

principles o AS 4024.1:2006 Safety of machinery o AS 1319:1994 Safety Signs for Occupational Environment o AS/NZS 3760:2010 In-service safety inspection and testing

of electrical equipment o ISO 5395: 1990 Powered lawn mowers, lawn tractors, lawn

and garden tractors – Definitions, safety requirements andtest procedures

Plant/Tools/Equipment: (List plant and equipmentto be used on the job.)

Example:- Victa Lawnmower

- ECO320 Electric Mower- Alroh Residential Cylinder Mower

Reference Documents Safe Work Australia (2011): Code of Practice: Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss in t he WorkplaceNational Acoustic Laboratories in conjunction with WorkCover NSW: Guide: ‘ A practical guide for measuring noiseassociated with plant or equipment in the workplace’ Sai Global: AS/NZS 3760:2010 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipmentSai Global: Standard: BIS IS 9575: 1980 Powered lawn mower – pedestrian controlled

Sai Global: ISO 5395: 1990 Powered lawn mowers, lawn tractors, lawn and garden tractors –Definitions, safety requirements and test procedures Alroh: Residential Cylinder Mower Owner’s Manual Ozito: Ecomow ECO320 Electric Mower Instruction Manual Victa: Victa Lawn Mower Assembly and Owner’s Manual

• Standardised format (Harvard method)

• Verified references relevant to SWMS activity

• Creditable sources such as; COP’s, safety alerts, industry guides, operators manuals

• Etc.

Document Reference List

Legislative references for all States

Additional & current Australian Standards



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SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT - 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 aboveSWMS 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 requirementswithin this SWMS including risk control measures, safe work instructions and Personal Protective Equipment described.

Overall Risk Rating after Controls 1 Low 2 Moderate 3 High 4 Acute

Employee/Worker Name Job Role / Position Signature Date Time Employer/PCBU/ Supervisor

Review No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Name

Initial

Date

HIERARCHY OF CONTROLS

“Hierarchy of Controls” to each SWMS

Added



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RISK ASSESSMENT MATRIX HB 436:2004 Risk Management Guidelines Tables 6.3 – 6.8 reproduced with permission from SAI Global under licence 1210-c062. Standards may be purchased at http://www.saiglobal.com

References: Safe Work Australia (2011) - Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks, AS/NZS 31000 -2009 Risk Management Principles and Guidelines.

Step 1: Determine LikelihoodWhat is the possibility that the effect will occur?

Step 2: Determine ConsequenceWhat will be the expected effect?

Criteria Description Level of Effect: Example of each level:

Almostcertain

Expected in most circumstances. Effect is a common result. Insignificant/Acceptable No effect – or so minor that effect is acceptable.

LikelyWill probably occur in mostcircumstances.

Effect is known to have occurred at thissite or it has happened.

Minor First Aid treatment only; no lost time injury.

Possible Might occur at some time.Effect could occur at the site or I’ve heardof it happening.

Moderate Medical treatment; serious injuries, temporary partial disability;lost time injury < 7 days.

Unlikely Could occur at some time.Effect is not likely to occur at the site or Ihave not heard of it happening.

Major Hospital admittance; extensive injuries; lost time injury > 7 days;Permanent Total Disability injury; death.

RareMay occur only in exceptionalcircumstances.

Effect is practically impossible. Catastrophic Multiple Permanent Total Disability injuries; multiple deaths.

Step 3 Determine the risk scoreStep 4 Record risk score on worksheet (Note – Risk scores have no absolute value and should

only be used for comparison and to engender discussion.) Consequence

Likelihood Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Catastrophic

Almostcertain

3 High 3 High 4 Acute 4 Acute 4 Acute Score Action

Likely 2 Moderate 3 High 3 High 4 Acute 4 Acute4

A: Acute DO NOT PROCCED. Requires immediate attention. Introduce further high levelcontrols to lower the risk level. Re-assess before proceeding.

Possible 1 Low 2 Moderate 3 High 4 Acute 4 Acute3

H: High

Review before commencing work. Introduce new controls and/or maintain highlevel controls to lower the risk level. Monitor frequently to ensure control measuresare working.

Unlikely 1 Low 1 Low 2 Moderate 3 High 4 Acute2

M: Moderate

Maintain control measures. Proceed with work. Monitor and review regularly, and

if any equipment/people/materials/work processes or procedures change.

Rare 1 Low 1 Low 2 Moderate 3 High 3 High1

L: Low Record and monitor . Proceed with work. Review regularly, and if anyequipment/people/materials/work processes or procedures change.