SWMS Example: Safe Work Method Statement
A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is required for high-risk construction work in Australia. This example shows a completed SWMS for a pump replacement task that you can adapt.
What is a SWMS?
A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a document that outlines the high-risk construction work being performed, the hazards and risks associated with each step, and the control measures to be implemented. In Australia, a SWMS is legally required for high-risk construction work as defined by the Work Health and Safety Regulations.
Completed Example: Pump Replacement
Business Details
Business name: ABC Maintenance Services Pty Ltd
ABN: 12 345 678 901
Contact: John Smith, 0412 345 678
Principal contractor: XYZ Manufacturing Pty Ltd
Work site: Plant Room 1, 123 Industrial Drive
High-Risk Work Description
Replacement of centrifugal pump P-101 in the boiler house. Work involves electrical isolation, mechanical disconnection, lifting operations, and hot work (welding of the base plate).
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Preparation and Isolation
Hazards: Electrical energy, pressurised water, hot surfaces
Controls: Complete LOTO on pump motor (main isolator #MCC-101). Close suction and discharge isolation valves. Open drain valve and verify zero pressure. Allow pump to cool below 40°C. Verify isolation by attempting to start pump.
Responsible: Licensed electrician + mechanical technician
Step 2: Disconnection of Piping
Hazards: Residual water, manual handling, slips
Controls: Place spill tray under flanges. Wear chemical-resistant gloves and safety glasses. Use mechanical lifting aid for heavy components. Clean up spills immediately with absorbent material.
Responsible: Mechanical technician
Step 3: Removal of Old Pump
Hazards: Manual handling, crushing, dropped object
Controls: Use chain block rated for 500kg (pump weight 200kg). Inspect lifting gear before use. Clear exclusion zone — 2m radius. Two-person lift. Wear safety boots and gloves.
Responsible: Rigger + mechanical technician
Step 4: Hot Work — Welding Base Plate
Hazards: Fire, burns, fumes, UV radiation
Controls: Hot work permit obtained. Clear 10m radius of combustibles. Fire watch assigned (dedicated person). Fire extinguisher (CO₂) on standby. Gas test completed (below 10% LEL). Welder wears full PPE — welding helmet, leather gloves, fire-resistant clothing. Mechanical ventilation for fume extraction.
Responsible: Certified welder + fire watch
Step 5: Installation of New Pump
Hazards: Manual handling, crushing, misalignment
Controls: Use chain block. Laser-align coupling to within 0.05mm. Torque flange bolts to specification. Install new gaskets.
Responsible: Mechanical technician
Step 6: Reconnection and Commissioning
Hazards: Re-energising, leaks, pressure
Controls: Remove locks and tags (each worker removes own). Open suction valve first. Start pump with discharge valve cracked. Check for leaks. Monitor vibration and temperature for 30 minutes.
Responsible: Mechanical technician + electrician
Sign-off
Prepared by: John Smith (Site Supervisor) Date: 12/07/2026
Reviewed by: Jane Doe (HSE Manager) Date: 12/07/2026
Worker acknowledgment: All workers have read and understood this SWMS.
SWMS vs JSA — What's the Difference?
| Characteristic | SWMS | JSA |
|---|---|---|
| Legal requirement | Legally required for high-risk construction work in Australia | Not legally required but best practice |
| When used | Construction work with high-risk activities | Any maintenance or operational task |
| Detail level | Detailed, formal, site-specific | Can be simpler, task-specific |
| Retention | Must be retained for specified period | Filed with work order |
Pro tip: A well-written SWMS or JSA should be specific enough that a qualified person who has never done the task before could follow it safely. If it's too generic, it's not providing the safety value it should.