Gas Installation Safe Work Method Statement

Gas Installation Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS Template) delivered in Microsoft Word format for easy editing.

Gas Installation Safe Work Method Statement

Gas Installation 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 Gas Installation 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 Gas Installation 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. Risk assessment
  8. Site induction
  9. Personal Protection Equipment(PPE)
  10. Housekeeping obstacles and cluttered work areas
  11. Working outside
  12. Manual handling lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling and holding
  13. Underground services gas lines, power cables, telephone cables, water and sewer lines
  14. Mark out works
  15. Trench digging works
  16. Installation of gas meter (to be connected by local authority)
  17. Installation of gas pipe
  18. Capping off gas pipe and pressure testing
  19. Fill in trench and re-establish ground
  20. Completion of work or end of workday
  21. On completion

The Gas Installation Safe Work Method Statement, includes;


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

Your Gas Installation 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. Store, handle and use the compressed gas cylinders, secured in place in the upright position.
  2. Move cylinders in trolleys or other handlers designed for moving cylinders.
  3. Never roll, drag, or drop cylinders or permit them to strike each other.

Gas Installation Safe Work Method Statement

  • Detailed and pre-filled Gas Installation Safe Work Method Statement.
  • Immediate Download Delivery.
  • Fully editable Safe Work Method Statement Template.
  • Easy to use - no fuss customisation.
  • 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 Gas Installation 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 gas installation project as needed, making sure that your Gas Installation SWMS Template addresses any site specific risks. 

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Gas Installation SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own gas installation SWMS.

There are some fundamental requirements and information which you may want to consider adding to your Gas Installation SWMS such as: 

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

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

Your Gas Installation Safe Work Method Statement Template should list any high risk construction work, such as:

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

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

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

When the Gas Installation SWMS has been revised, the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure:

  1. All persons involved in the gas installation work are advised that a revision has been made and how they can access the revised Gas Installation 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 Gas Installation SWMS; and,
  3. Workers that will be involved in the gas installation work are provided with the relevant information and instruction that will assist them to understand and implement the revised Gas Installation SWMS. 

When preparing your Gas Installation 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 Gas Installation.

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

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

Assessment of Site Conditions

Thoroughly assess the work site/area conditions when working with gas installation and ensure that:

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

Gas Installation Training and Worker Qualifications 

Ensure all workers have the appropriate licenses in conducting Gas Installation as well as any qualifications that may be required for various gas installation 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 Gas Installation SWMS including all safety and emergency procedures.
  2. Be qualified, knowledgeable and competent in Gas Installation operations and gas installation work as well as all delegated tasks/responsibilities
  3. Be fully aware and understand the scope of work in relation to the Gas Installation SWMS 

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

  • Conduct a risk assessment before starting work and review the Site Safety Plan and Emergency Procedures of the Principal Contractor and the Work Method Statements of your subcontractor.
  • Use the Hazard Report Form and the Risk Assessment Worksheet.
  • Wherever required, identify the safety controls required additionally.
  • Wherever required, obtain approvals from the supply authorities.
  • Ensure that workers are trained, experienced or qualified to carry out the specified tasks.
  • Before allowing the work to commence, request the appropriate licences or certifications.
  • Advise the workers and other persons on the site of the work to be carried out.
  • A site-specific induction must be conducted for all the project workers. Have them sign a Site Induction Register including but not limited to
  • Hazards specific to the site and the work activities to be carried out.
  • Safety controls and revised Work Method Statements.
  • Use and maintenance of the Personal Protective Equipment.
  • Emergency and evacuation procedures.
  • Location of amenities and first aid facilities.
  • Make sure that all workers including the subcontractors have completed the General Construction Induction Training and hold a current card or certification.
  • Ensure that all workers have been issued with and wear their commended PPE for safety on the workplace specific to the activities and tasks.
  • Train all workers in the correct use, maintenance and storage of PPE.
  • PPE must only be used when no other control can reduce or eliminate the risk/hazard.
  • Basic housekeeping must be carried out regularly, keeping work areas and access ways clear of debris, tools and materials.
  • Ensure cables and similar equipment cannot cause a trip hazard.
  • Wearing appropriate footwear is necessary.
  • Let persons work in the shade when possible or provide a structure for shade.
  • Provide plenty of drinking water to let persons stay hydrated.
  • Make sure persons wear sunscreen, hats with wide brims, shirts with long sleeves and collar, trousers and wraparound sunglasses.
  • Workers must be trained techniques knees must be bent to lift or lower, thighs must be used to lift (do not bend over), the head must be kept up and the chin in and the elbows must be kept close to the body. Never twist when lifting, lowering or carrying a load.
  • Ensure that the load is stable before lifting it.
  • Rotate tasks to persons to prevent repetitive strain injuries.
  • Always get help or use equipment for lifting awkward and heavy items.
  • Obtain the required approvals from the Service providers.
  • Ensure that conductive objects cannot come in contact with or are likely to contact any live conductors.
  • If the exact location of the service is unknown, preferably excavate by hand.
  • Dial 1100 before digging check for underground services, note the service location, type, depth and any restrictions that apply.
  • Make sure, only proper tools are being used for the task.
  • Inspect all equipment and check all parts are in good condition.
  • Wearing eye protection is necessary.
  • Ensure that no person enters an unsupported section of the trench or carries out any trenching work without supervision.
  • Ensure only the proper tool is used for the task and the worker has been trained in its correct use.
  • Inspect all tools are in proper working condition.
  • Inspect all trenching supports to make sure they are appropriate to the conditions.
  • Ensure all workers have access to safe ladder.
  • Ensure all soil heaps are positioned at least 900mm away from the trench.
  • Ensure that at least two workers are present at the workplace at all times during the work activity to attend to an emergency.
  • Ensure the meter is located in a safe and readily accessible location to permit easy reading, safe venting, maintenance and replacement.
  • Ensure that the minimum clearances when installing the meter conform to AS/NZ 4645.1 and AS/NZ 5601.
  • A gas meter that protrudes more than 300mm from the wall must not be mounted below the electricity meter.
  • Make sure there is a minimum clearance of 500mm between any part of the electricity meter box and the gas meter regulator.
  • Ensure that the meter is installed on the external side of any building.
  • Workers must be trained in the correct technique for the task.
  • Workers must be trained in the proper use of the equipment.
  • Proper lifting techniques must be used, tasks must be rotated and correct lifting equipment must be used.
  • Ensure that required separation is maintained between the gas pipe and other services.
  • Make sure that the market tape indicating the gas pipe along its length complies with AS/NZ 2648.1.
  • Use marking tape according to AS 1345 for identifying the services when the gas pipe is installed within common service trenches.
  • Always train workers for the correct use of the proper tool for the task.
  • When working in awkward positions or in cramped positions for prolonged periods always allow adequate breaks or rotate the duties to reduce working.
  • Ensure pipe supports are installed where required.
  • Proper lifting techniques must be used, tasks must be rotated and proper lifting equipment must be used.
  • Where there is a possibility of exposure to dust or fumes, a dust mask or half or full-face respirator must be used.
  • When required, wearing hardhat, eye and hearing protection is necessary.
  • Workers must be trained in the proper techniques for the task.
  • Ensure all appliances and gas supply apparatus such as meter or tank is isolated from the installation being tested.
  • Ensure only an approved testing medium is used.
  • After isolating the appliance and the gas supply, make sure all the valves in the piping system are open and all the components are installed.
  • If the pressure exceeds 200KPa, make sure of compliance withAS 4041 Pressure piping.
  • Ensure that all fitting lines are thoroughly cleaned internally.
  • Make sure the testing equipment used is of sufficient quality and standard for the accuracy of the test.
  • Ensure that all short sections are properly grooved to reach appropriate fastening or sealing requirements.
  • The system should be commissioned only after the test has been completed and after it has been established that the system is gas-tight and not leaking, to the satisfaction of the gas supplier.
  • After completing purging, introduction of fuel gas and testing, any joint not included in the test (mostly connections) must be tested with soapy water, an approved testing agent or apparatus to make sure these joints are sound.
  • Workers must be trained in the proper techniques for the task.
  • Make sure persons are wearing a dust mask or half or full-face respirator.
  • When the work is completed, turn off the isolation switch and disconnect the machine from the power source.
  • Use proper manual handling techniques to remove any excess materials from the site.
  • Equipment must be placed back in the work vehicle or stored in the approved storage area.
  • Always make sure the work area is left clean and tidy. As required, make sure the storage area or the site is locked / secured.
  • Wearing gloves is necessary when handling sharp objects.

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.