Free Working at Heights SWMS - pre-filled template
Get SafetyCheck’s Working at Heights SWMS template. It’s prefilled with common tasks, risks and controls, as well as PPE, Emergency Procedures and Communication & Consultation.
The SWMS is free with a subscription to SafetyCheck and can be easily shared digitally or by PDF download.
Tasks included:
- Site Induction
- Equipment Inspection
- Selection of Correct Fall Protection Equipment
- Setting up Scaffolding/Ladders
- Use of Fall Arrest Systems
- Working on Roofs or Platforms
- Moving Materials at Heights
- Working Near Open Edges
- Emergency Evacuation/Rescue Plan
- Final Inspection and Dismantling
Key risks and controls for working at heights
Set up scaffolding
Risks: Falls due to unstable setup.
Controls: Ensure scaffolding/ladders are on stable ground. Secure ladders and scaffolding following AS/NZS 1576 and AS/NZS 1892.
Fall arrest system
Risks: Incorrect attachment, equipment failure.
Controls: Ensure all personnel are attached to anchor points rated for the task. Inspect harnesses and lanyards for wear.
Working near edge
Risks: Falls from unguarded edges
Controls: Use edge protection like guardrails or fall arrest systems. Ensure all workers stay within designated work areas.
Find the right SWMS for you
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Working at Heights policy, penalties and advice from state safe work bodies
SafeWork NSW, Working at heights
Falling from any height can lead to death or long-term injuries.
Click here to read more.
WorkSafe ACT, Working at heights
Working at heights means working where falling would mean someone or something would fall from one level to another. This isn’t just when working on a building, it can also be when working on the ground near a deep excavation.
Click here to read more.
WorkSafe QLD, Work at heights
There’s a risk of falling when working at a height—near an opening, an edge or on a slippery, sloping or unstable surface. You can also fall at ground level into holes like openings, trenches or service pits. Find out what steps you can take to stay safe working from heights.
Click here to read more.
WorkSafe QLD, Falls from one level to another
You must manage the health and safety risks from a person falling from one level to another at your place of work.
Click here to read more.
SafeWork SA, Edge protection for roof work (guardrail systems)
Guardrail systems used for roofing work may be an effective way to manage some of the risks of working at heights. Roofing work involves a variety of tasks that potentially expose persons to the risk of falls both through and from the edge of the roof structure. Physical edge protection should be provided for all roofing works, so far as is reasonably practicable.
Click here to read more.
WorkSafe TAS, Managing the risk of falls in housing construction
Provides practical guidance on how to manage the health and safety risks associated with falls in housing construction; and how to achieve the standards required under the work health and safety laws.
Click here to read more.
WHS obligations
Work Health and Safety (WHS or OHS) obligations, for tradies are critical to ensure workers and businesses stay safe. Tradies must follow workplace safety laws set by each Australian state safe work body which include use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper training, identify potential hazards. In some cases Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) are required.
SWMS explained
A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a document required for high-risk construction work (HRCW). It outlines the specific tasks to be carried out, associated risks, and measures to control these risks. Building and trade contractors, and workers are responsible for adhering to the SWMS. Regular reviews and updates are essential to address any changes in work conditions.
Types of HRCW
There are 13 types of High Risk Construction Work (HRCW) that require SWMS. They include working at heights, in confined spaces, in trenches, using explosives, demolition and more. Some are very common whereas others are specific to certain types of construction and work sites.
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