Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement

Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS Template) delivered in Microsoft Word format for easy editing.

Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement

Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)

Whether you need to get on site to start work, looking to create a safe work environment or pitching for that next government tender - the Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement is easy to customise, easy to use and easy to integrate into your current Safety Management System. If you don't have a Safety Management System, we need to talk, seriously, you don't need to be carrying that level of risk exposure in your business - we can help.

Look, we understand that business should be rewarding and not consumed by tedious red tape. The Safe Work Method Statement Template we create is in an easy to understand format, while at the same time being some of the highest quality documents in the industry. Our SWMS documents get you onsite, save you loads of time and are very user-friendly. This way, you can get on with doing what you do best.

The Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) covers the following Job Steps, including potential hazards, control measures and risk ratings:

  1. Planning and preparation
  2. Training and capabilities
  3. Assess onsite conditions
  4. Set up work area
  5. Temporary Traffic Control (TMP)
  6. Delivery of materials and equipment
  7. General precautions
  8. Site safety and security.
  9. Site access
  10. Traffic and pedestrians
  11. Plant and machinery
  12. Excavation
  13. Boxing and formwork
  14. Reinforcement steel
  15. Placement of concrete
  16. Screeding
  17. Trowelling / finishing
  18. Stripping and clean-up
  19. On completion

The Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement Includes


Risk Assessment Matrix | Hierarchy of Controls | PPE | Emergency Response

Your Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement is ready to be used in three easy steps:

  1. Add your company logo and details to the SWMS Template.
  2. Identify site specific risks.
  3. Address any site specific risks and add them to your SWMS Template.

Now that your Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is ready for use, you can also make the SWMS document available as a training resource for activities such as WHS-OHS Toolbox Meeting Talks or Workplace Inductions.

Bluesafe Quick Tips:

  1. When working with concrete, it is important to always wear PPE. When working with concrete slab construction, it is essential to follow any safety guidelines.
  2. If it gets in to your eyes, wash them out and seek medical assistance immediately.
  3. Once the work has been completed, your skin and all protective clothing should be thoroughly washed with soap and running water.

Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement

  • Detailed and pre-filled Concrete Slab Construction 
  • Safe Work Method Statement.
  • Immediate Download Delivery.
    Fully editable Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) Template.
  • Easy to customise - instructions included.
  • Referenced to Australian and NZ Standards (AS/NZS) and Legislation. 
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View a Safe Work Method Statement Example

See an example of a Safe Work Method Statement Template below. All our SWMS Template documents are comprehensive in nature, easy to use, and are a huge time saver. Our Safe Work Method Statement Templates are quick and easy to customise to your specific business or operation and are perfectly suited for every day use, for larger contracts and tenders right through to qualifying for contractor management platforms such as CM3.

What is a Safe Work Method Statement?

A SWMS is a document that outlines the high-risk construction work activities that will be performed at a workplace, the hazards that will be present as a result of these activities, and the controls that will be implemented to mitigate the risks.

A single SWMS can be utilised for numerous high-risk construction work activities, such as employing powered mobile plant, working at heights of more than 2 metres, and working near to a road that is used by traffic other than pedestrians.

A SWMS is an administrative control that is used to support higher-order controls, such as engineering controls, that are designed to remove or reduce hazards to health and safety.

A SWMS differs from other documentation such as a Job Safety Analysis or a Safe Operating Procedure in that it focuses on specific jobs or processes. A SWMS isn't meant to be a procedure; rather, it's a tool for supervisors and workers to check and monitor the workplace control measures. For high-risk work activities, a PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking)  must prepare a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) or check that one has been prepared before starting work. It is important to note that before any work process has started, a SWMS must be prepared.

A PCBU, on the other hand, also must manage health and safety hazards by eliminating or reducing them as much as possible. Before beginning any work on a project, the principal contractor must also obtain a copy of the SWMS.

What information does a Safe Work Method Statement need to contain?

A Safe Work Method Statement should identify high-risk work and any specify hazards related to high-risk construction work as well as any health and safety risks. The SWMS should describe the risk-control measures to be implemented, monitored, and reviewed and also should describe how the risk-control measures will be effective at reducing or eliminating the risk, and how they will be implemented, monitored, and reviewed.

A Safe Work Method Statement should be concise and focus on outlining the specific risks identified for the high-risk work to be performed, as well as the control measures to be implemented to ensure that the work is completed safely.

A long and overly complex Safe Work Method Statement which could be difficult to comprehend, implement and monitor or review may be confusing for workers to mentally digest and therefore is not ideal in helping to reduce or eliminate risks in the workplace. It is imperative that workers, and especially those who do not speak English, are able to understand the Safe Work Method Statement. Consider having pictures or diagrams added to the SWMS as a more effective way of presenting information contained within the SWMS.

The SWMS should also contain other regulatory requirements to protect health and safety of all personnel, such as controlling noise exposure and manual job risks. Also, keep in mind that evidence of a completed risk assessment may be required by the regulator or for auditing reasons if the Safe Work Method Statement is based on a workplace-specific risk assessment.

Who's Responsible for creating the Safe Work Method Statement?

In collaboration with workers who will be directly engaged in the activity, the person responsible for carrying out the work is usually best equipped to prepare the SWMS document. In most cases, this means that a Safe Work Method Statement is created by the builder for his or her employees, or by the subcontractor for their employees.

To establish who is in the best position to prepare the Safe Work Method Statement, the principle contractor, builder, and/or subcontractors should decide who will take responsibility for the SWMS.

It's also a requirement that all managers, contractors, supervisors, and workers be involved in the creation of a Safe Work Method Statement. Workers must be consulted so that they understand the SWMS in depth and what they must do to establish and maintain risks and implement control measures to manage the risk. Sharing information and utilising workers' knowledge and experience may also aid in ensuring that the task is completed in accordance with the SWMS.

If your workplace has a Health and Safety Representative, they should also be contacted while creating a Safe Work Method Statement.

What does the principal contractor's responsibility entail?

Before beginning work, a principal contractor must take all reasonable steps to obtain a SWMS from any contractor performing high-risk work. If no SWMS exists, the principal contractor must arrange for one to be created, for example by the contractor or subcontractor.

A general contractor should establish plans to ensure that high-risk work is carried out safely and in compliance with the Safe Work Method Statement. This can be done by keeping an eye on how the SWMS is being implemented on the ground.

The principal contractors' WHS management plan must also include detailed arrangements for collecting, assessing, monitoring, and reviewing the SWMS, according to the WHS Regulations.

How to Write a Safe Work Method Statement 

If you're looking to write your own Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement, the first step is to create the document as a Safe Work Method Statement Template. This way, you can use the same SWMS Template and then adjust the document for each different glazing project as needed, making sure that your Concrete Slab Construction SWMSTemplate addresses any site specific risks.

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Concrete Slab Construction SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own concrete slab construction SWMS.

There are some fundamental requirements and information which you may want to consider adding to your Concrete Slab Construction SWMS such as: 

  • Details of the person(s) responsible for making sure implementation, monitoring and compliance of the Concrete Slab ConstructionSWMS as well as any reviews and modifications.
  • Any information detailing safety meetings or toolbox talks in relation to concrete slab construction work, scheduled in accordance with legislative requirements to first identify any site hazards where the concrete slab construction work is being conducted, secondly, communicate the risks and hazards and then take steps to eliminate or control each hazard in relation to the concrete slab construction work being done.
  • Any changes added to the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS after an incident or a near miss. 

Note: The Concrete Slab Construction SWMS must be kept and be available for inspection at least until the concrete slab construction work is completed. Where the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS is revised, all versions of the SWMS Template should be kept. If a notifiable incident occurs in relation to the Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement, the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS must be kept for a minimum of two years from the date of the incident.

Your Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement Template should list any high risk construction work, such as:

  • Does the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS involve a risk of a person falling more than 2 meters?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out on or near pressurised gas mains or piping?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out on a telecommunication tower?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out on or near chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines?
  • Does the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS involve demolition of an element of a structure that is load-bearing?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out on or near energised electrical installations or services?
  • Does the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS involve demolition of an element related to the physical integrity of a structure?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere?
  • Does the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS involve, or is likely to involve, disturbing asbestos?
  • Does the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS involve tilt-up or precast concrete?
  • Does the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS involve structural alteration or repair that requires temporary support to prevent collapse?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out on, in or adjacent to a road, railway, shipping lane or other traffic corridor?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out in or near a confined space?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out in an area of a workplace where there is any movement of powered mobile plant?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out in/near a shaft or trench deeper than 1.5m or tunnel involving use of explosives?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out in areas with artificial extremes of temperature?
  • Is the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS carried out in or near water or other liquid that involves a risk of drowning?
  • Does the concrete slab construction work outlined in the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS involve diving work?

Your Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement should also identify any high-risk machinery or equipment in operation near the work site, such as: 

Your Concrete Slab Construction SWMS should also list any Personal Protective Equipment such as:

  • Foot Protection - Boots or closed in shoes
  • Hand Protection - Gloves
  • Head Protection - Hard hat or helmet
  • Hearing Protection - Ear plugs or ear muffs
  • Eye Protection - Safety glasses, goggles or face shields
  • Respiratory Protection - Face masks etc
  • Face Protection - Face shield, welding mask etc
  • High Visual Clothing
  • Protective Clothing - Overalls etc
  • Fall Protection - Safety harness, edge protection etc
  • Sun Protection - Sunscreen, hat etc
  • Hair and Jewellery Secured - Hair Net, etc

The Concrete Slab Construction SWMS must be reviewed continually to ensure it remains effective and relevant. The Concrete Slab Construction SWMS must be reviewed (and revised if necessary) if relevant control measures in relation to concrete slab construction work are revised.The review process should be carried out in consultation with workers(including contractors and subcontractors) who may be affected by the Concrete Slab Construction and their health and safety representatives who represented that work group at the workplace.

When the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS has been revised, the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure:

  1. All persons involved in the concrete slab construction work are advised that a revision has been made and how they can access the revised Concrete Slab Construction SWMS;
  2. Persons who will need to change a work procedure or system as a result of the review are advised of the changes in a way that will enable them to implement their duties consistently with the revised Concrete Slab Construction SWMS; and,
  3. Workers that will be involved in the concrete slab construction work are provided with the relevant information and instruction that will assist them to understand and implement the revised Concrete Slab Construction SWMS. 

When preparing your Concrete Slab Construction SWMS, here are some topics you might want to also include to ensure you have covered as many risks and hazards as possible.  

Planning and Preparation When Working With and Around Concrete Slab Construction.

When writing your Concrete Slab Construction SWMS, establish any policies, procedures and systems for working with Concrete Slab Constructions in consultation with the Principal Contractor and workers while being sure to establish:

  • Health and Safety guidelines for concrete slab construction work
  • Emergency plans and evacuation procedures for the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS
  • Worker inductions for Concrete Slab Construction
  • Toolbox talks (safety meetings) added to the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS
  • Outline details of supervision of the site and workers on the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS
  • Check all workers qualifications, permits and competencies for Concrete Slab Construction operations
  • Ensure the Concrete Slab Construction and any related equipment is functioning correctly
  • Hazard reporting procedures in place and added to the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS
  • Incident reporting procedures in place and added to the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS
  • Exclusion zones when conducting concrete slab construction work
  • Risk Assessment for TASK completed and noted on the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS
  • Electrical NO GO ZONES identified, discussed and documented.

Assessment of Site Conditions

Thoroughly assess the work site/area conditions during concrete slab construction and ensure that: 

  1. A risk assessment of the concrete slab construction work is conducted
  2. Suitable access and adequate space to conduct concrete slab construction work safely
  3. Consult with all stakeholders on potential hazards and risks when conducting concrete slab construction work
  4. Consultation with all relevant workers and personnel for Concrete Slab Construction SWMS details
  5. If conducting Concrete Slab Construction at night, ensure there is adequate lighting
  6. Check that the work environment is suitable for concrete slab construction work 

Concrete Slab Construction Training and Worker Qualifications 

Ensure all workers have the appropriate licenses in conducting Concrete Slab Construction as well as any qualifications that may be required for various concrete slab construction projects before starting work. If White Cards are required, retain copies of all cards, licenses and qualifications of personnel.

All personnel must: 

  1. Be trained and/or have received instructions on the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS including all safety and emergency procedures.
  2. Be qualified, knowledgeable and competent in Concrete Slab Construction operations and concrete slab construction work as well as all delegated tasks/responsibilities
  3. Be fully aware and understand the scope of work in relation to the Concrete Slab Construction SWMS

Below are some examples of some Control Measures to be implemented when creating your own Concrete Slab Construction Safe Work Method Statement Template:

  • As required by codes of practice and regulations, all persons working on the construction site must wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment.
  • Make sure all persons working outdoors are provided with protection from solar UV radiation.
  • Wearing head protection is essential.
  • Wearing foot protection is essential.
  • Wear proper clothing and use sunscreen.
  • Prevent access to site by making sure a secure man-proof fence is erected around the site.
  • When the site is unattended, prevent access by providing locks on all gates.
  • Inspect the security fence daily.
  • Unless they are manned, keep the gates locked.
  • Make sure of maintaining safe means of access to and through worksite.
  • Make sure access areas are kept clear of equipment, materials and tools.
  • Make sure vehicles have adequate space for entering and manoeuvring.
  • Provide areas for material storage.
  • Scrap and waste should be placed in the bins provided.
  • If possible, provide a through route.
  • When working on areas adjacent to traffic highways and on footpath, make sure the work area is well clear of passing traffic.
  • Always provide safe access for pedestrians through or past work area.
  • For control, use barriers and signs.
  • Use barricades on both sides.
  • Make sure that mobile machinery and plant is fitted with and uses safety features such as alarms, reversing beepers, flashing lights, etc.
  • All persons working in areas where plant and machinery is operating must wear high-visibility garments at all times.
  • Plant and machinery must be operated only by authorised persons who hold an appropriate certificate or license.
  • Before machine is used, inspect the operation of lights and alarms, etc.
  • Wearing high-visibility garment or safety vest is necessary.
  • Do not allow unlicensed or unauthorised operation.
  • Suitable means must be provided to preventing persons from falling into open trenches, etc.
  • To prevent tripping, always remove the spoil away from the edge of the excavation or trench.
  • Unattended open trenches or excavations must have barriers erected around them.
  • Use barriers such as fencing, mesh, rails, etc.
  • Tape or strapping may not be an effective means for barricading.
  • Before handling wooden boxing materials, make sure they are free of nails, etc.
  • Before cutting timber, make sure it is free from dirt, concrete, etc.
  • Use proper tools for cutting boxing to required size and shape.
  • For handling awkward lengths or heavy sheets, always obtain assistance.
  • For handling oily, sharp or rough timber, wearing gloves is necessary.
  • Wearing eye protection is necessary.
  • Proper lifting practices must be observed.
  • Cut mesh sheets and reinforcement bars have sharp ends. Be careful to avoid contact.
  • When using grinders to cut bars, harmful noise levels and sparks may be present.
  • When cutting steel with a grinder, keep other persons away from affected areas.
  • For handling awkward lengths, long or heavy reinforcing, always obtain assistance.
  • Be careful not to traverse areas with reinforcing mesh.
  • Exposed ends of starter and vertical bars must have protective caps placed above them.
  • Wearing hand protection is necessary.
  • Wearing eye and hearing protection is essential.
  • Be careful when tying reinforcing or placing bar chairs.
  • For concrete deliveries, make sure the transit mixer has adequate room to park safely and for the operator to move around the rear of truck.
  • Make sure the hopper has sufficient space for transferring concrete from the delivery truck to the pump unit.
  • All persons, other than those directly involved in pumping and delivery must be kept clear of the truck and the hopper area when concrete is being pumped.
  • Make sure the barrows are suitable for the job, and that they have correctly inflated tyres.
  • Barrows must have clear path over obstructions. Use bridges or similar.
  • Use a person to control the traffic.
  • Wearing high-visibility garments is necessary.
  • The truck driver and the pump operator must have clear means of communication.
  • Do not stand close to moving machinery.
  • Never use faulty equipment.
  • Only industrial barrows must be used.
  • Proper lifting and handling practices must be observed.
  • Do not use screed to move heavy loads of concrete. Use shovels for removing excess concrete or for topping up holes.
  • For avoiding back-strains, always adopt ergonomically sound working positions.
  • Always protect exposed skin areas and do not let skin contact wet concrete.
  • Proper lifting and handling practices must be observed.
  • Wearing boots, gloves and barrier creams is necessary when handling concrete.
  • For finishing concrete, preferably use a mechanical float ora long handled float.
  • While using mechanical float for finishing, keep clear of its moving blades.
  • While placing or edging construction joints, preferably squat instead of bending.
  • Avoid back strain by adopting an ergonomically sound position.
  • While removing and stripping boxing, preferably adopt ergonomically sound position.
  • Before placing into store or rack, always remove nails from timber forms and oil them.
  • Never accumulate scrap material. Always place in bins immediately.
  • Make sure to clean before concrete can set on or in tools, floats, barrows, etc. Before it can set, wash concrete off gloves, boots, etc.
  • Proper lifting and handling practices must be observed.
  • When handling sharp or rough materials and wet concrete, always wear barrier cream and gloves.

National: View the Model Codes of Practice for Excavation Work on Safe Work Australia's website here.
Victoria: Victoria's Code of Practice for Excavation Work may be viewed on Work Safe Victoria's website here.