Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement

Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS Template) delivered in Microsoft Word format for easy editing.

Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement

Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling 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 big contract or government tender - the Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement is easy to customise, easy to use and 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 Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling 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. Specifications and construction
  8. Transport
  9. Handling
  10. On-site refuelling
  11. Spills and leaks
  12. LPG refuelling
  13. Placarding of vehicles
  14. On completion

The Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement Includes


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

Your Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling 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.

Your SWMS is now read to use, and may also be used as training materials for work related activities such as Workplace Inductions or WHS-OHS Toolbox Meeting Talks.

Bluesafe Quick Tips:

  1. Survey the work site o identify potential hazards and equipment on-site.
  2. Make sure all PPE is in place according to specific site requirements.
  3. Take note of and adhere to signage at the entry point of the site.

Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement

  • Detailed and pre-filled Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement.
  • Instant Delivery.
  • Fully editable Safe Work Method Statement 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 Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling 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 fuel transport and on-site refuelling project as needed, making sure that your Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS Template addresses any site specific risks.

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own fuel transport and on-site refuelling SWMS.

There are some fundamental requirements and information which you may want to consider adding to your Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS such as: 

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

Note: The Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS must be kept and be available for inspection at least until the fuel transport and on-site refuelling work is completed. Where the Fuel Transport and On-SiteRefuelling SWMS is revised, all versions of the SWMS Template should be kept.If a notifiable incident occurs in relation to the Fuel Transport and On-SiteRefuelling Safe Work Method Statement, the Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS must be kept for a minimum of two years from the date of the incident.

Your Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement Template should list any high risk construction work, such as:

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

Your Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Safe Work Method Statement should also identify any high-risk machinery or equipment in operation near the work site, such as: 

Your Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling 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 Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS must be reviewed continually to ensure it remains effective and relevant. The Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS must be reviewed (and revised if necessary) if relevant control measures in relation to fuel transport and on-site refuelling work are revised. The review process should be carried out in consultation with workers (including contractors and subcontractors) who maybe affected by the Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling and their health and safety representatives who represented that work group at the workplace.

When the Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS has been revised, the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure:

  1. All persons involved in the fuel transport and on-site refuelling work are advised that a revision has been made and how they can access the revised Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling 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 Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS; and,
  3. Workers that will be involved in the fuel transport and on-site refuelling work are provided with the relevant information and instruction that will assist them to understand and implement the revised Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS. 

When preparing your Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling 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 Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling.

When writing your Fuel Transport and On-Site RefuellingSWMS, establish any policies, procedures and systems for working with FuelTransport and On-Site Refuelling in consultation with the Principal Contractor and workers while being sure to establish:

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

Assessment of Site Conditions 

Thoroughly assess the work site/area conditions when working with fuel transport and on-site refuelling and ensure that:

  1. A risk assessment of the fuel transport and on-site refuelling work is conducted
  2. Suitable access and adequate space to conduct fuel transport and on-site refuelling work safely
  3. Consult with all stakeholders on potential hazards and risks when conducting fuel transport and on-site refuelling work
  4. Consultation with all relevant workers and personnel for Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS details
  5. If conducting Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling at night, ensure there is adequate lighting
  6. Check that the work environment is suitable for fuel transport and on-site refuelling work 

Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling Training and Worker Qualifications

Ensure all workers have the appropriate licenses in conducting Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling as well as any qualifications that may be required for various fuel transport and on-site refuelling 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 Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS including all safety and emergency procedures.
  2. Be qualified, knowledgeable and competent in Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling operations and fuel transport and on-site refuelling work as well as all delegated tasks/responsibilities
  3. Be fully aware and understand the scope of work in relation to the Fuel Transport and On-Site Refuelling SWMS 

Below are some examples of some Control Measures to be implemented when creating your own Excavator Use as Crane Safe Work Method Statement Template:

  • Tankers and tanks for the road transport of fuel must conform to AS 2809 Road tanker vehicles for dangerous goods.
  • Make sure that tankers and tanks are of an approved design and be registered to carry fuels.
  • Construct walkways and ladders to allow safe access and movement on tanks provide fall protection where a person could fall from a height of 2 metres or more.
  • Attach the current compliance plate to the tanks.
  • Provide removable tanks with a means for safely securing the tank to the vehicle never carry fuel in other than approved tanks.
  • Use only electric pumps that are of intrinsically safe type approved for handling flammable liquids and fitted with remote emergency stop switches.
  • Place emergency stops at operators and driver positions.
  • Use hoses and fittings of a design approved for use with fuels.
  • Check seals and clamps to make sure that hoses never leak in use provide racks or containers to keep hoses clean and dry.
  • Tanks for fuel transport are to be secured and earthed to vehicle chassis make sure earth strap is attached.
  • Make sure that containers are earthed to prevent static build up during transport. Label all containers clearly with the contents of the container.
  • Never convey fuel in passenger compartment of vehicles.
  • Fuel containers are to be secured from movement or accidental damage no smoking or ignition sources.
  • Provide adequate means of ventilation (e.g., roof ventilator, grille vent, etc.) for fuel carried in enclosed compartments avoid carriage in enclosed vehicles where possible.
  • Vehicles carrying fuel in excess of the placarding quantity for the Class and Packing Group must carry the appropriate required placards and class labels carry suitable fire extinguisher on vehicle.
  • An Emergency Procedures Guide (EPG)for the products carried on the vehicle must be carried in the passenger compartment of the truck always carry emergency PPE and spill kit with placarded loads.
  • Carry out decanting and mixing of fuel only in a well-ventilated area never allow smoking or ignition sources.
  • Provide earthing straps to eliminate build up of static electricity eliminate static electricity sources.
  • Avoid petrol and fuels directly touching skin wear PVC gloves and apron.
  • Avoid splashing of fuel and avoid getting petrol or fuel in eyes wear eye protection at all times.
  • Eliminate ignition sources near refuelling operations never allow smoking or ignition sources.
  • Switch off engines of plant and vehicles before commencing refuelling never leave pump or fuel hose unattended during refuelling.
  • Allow entry to site only to persons directly involved in refuelling operation.
  • Never overfill fuel tanks, and cleanup spills or leaks immediately.
  • Avoid touching fuels and oils during refuelling wear eye and hand protection.
  • Eliminate all ignition sourcespumps, etc.
  • Notify emergency services immediately of any spill or leak that may present a risk to persons or property.
  • Advise emergency services (Police,Fire Brigade) immediately giving details of type of emergency, exact location, any casualties, etc.
  • Secure site and do not allow entry of persons not involved in emergency.
  • Consider evacuation of area if risk of fire or explosion is possible.
  • Consider personal safety. Attend to problem only if it is safe to do so.
  • Follow advice and instructions given by emergency response personnel.
  • Avoid touching skin and eyes, and remove contaminated clothing wear PPE commensurate with scale or type of leak or spill.
  • Avoid inhalation of vapours work upwind if possible, or use respirator.
  • Prevent entry of fuels and oils into drains or waterways use mats over drains and bund around area to contain the spillage.
  • Absorb spill with oil-sorb or pads, and place into sealable container.
  • Dispose of waste only at approved chemical waste disposal facility never dispose of in landfill.
  • Placarding quantity for LPG is 500 L water capacity of cylinders or tank never allow smoking or ignition sources ,turn off engine, lights, radios, etc.
  • Make sure that all components are matched and in good working condition.
  • Before commencing refuelling operation, eliminate all ignition sources wear eye and hand protection.
  • Avoid touching gas, and prevent touching liquid replace caps over all LPG filling fittings to protect seals.
  • Shut off gas supply at tank immediately in case of leak in filling system.
  • Never overfill LPG fuel tank fill only to 80% of capacity.
  • Vehicles transporting fuels must befitted with Emergency Information Panels (EIPs) measuring 800 x 600 mm on each side of the tank, carrying the following information
  • The Proper Shipping Name of the product carried
  • The UN Number of the product
  • The HAZCHEM Code for the product
  • The relevant Class label(s) assigned to the product
  • The name and number of whom to contact for information in an emergency, and the Emergency Services response number
  • The vehicle must also be fitted with Class labels 250mm square at the front and rear of the vehicle.
  • Placards and class labels must be displayed when the vehicle is transporting dangerous goods.
  • Empty tanks, containers and packages are to be treated as full for the purposes of placarding unless they have been purged of all traces of the substance for which placarding was required.
  • Vehicle fuel tanks will not form part of a placard load. 

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.