Motorised Auger Safe Work Method Statement

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

Motorised Auger Safe Work Method Statement

Motorised Auger 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 motorised Auger Safe Work Method Statement is easy tocustomise, 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, and 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 Motorised Auger 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. Pre-start checks
  8. General precautions
  9. Operation
  10. Cleaning and maintenance
  11. On completion

The Motorised Auger Safe Work Method Statement, includes;


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

Your Motorised Auger 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. After the holes are dug, cover them with scraps of plywood to keep kids or pets from falling in and to keep the holes from caving in if it rains.
  2. Wear appropriate PPE, namely hearing protection, safety glasses and gloves.
  3. Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start.

Motorised Auger Safe Work Method Statement

  • Detailed and pre-filled Motor Mower Ride-On Safe Work Method Statement.
  • Instant Delivery.
  • Fully editable Safe Work Method Statement Template.
  • Easy to customise - instructions included.
  • Referenced to Australian & NZ Standards (AS/NZS) & Legislation. 
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Motorised Auger Safe Work Method Statement
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5 SWMS Pack

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10 SWMS Pack

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20 SWMS Pack

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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 Motorised Auger 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 motorised auger project as needed, making sure that your Motorised Auger SWMS Template addresses any site specific risks.

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Motorised Auger SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own motorised auger SWMS.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When preparing your Motorised Auger 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 Motorised Auger.

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

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

Assessment of Site Conditions

Thoroughly assess the work site/area conditions when working with motorised auger and ensure that:

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

Motorised Auger Training and Worker Qualifications

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

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

  • Do not allow smoking near petrol-fuelled equipment.
  • Refuel only in clear space away from the work area.
  • All fasteners of the machine must be in place and properly tightened.
  • Before operation, check condition of auger. Replace or re-sharpen cutting blades if worn.
  • Check operations of all controls. Auger must stop rotating during idling.
  • When refilling or checking gear case, avoid spillage of oil.
  • Ensure no ignition sources and no smoking.
  • Avoid spillage or overfilling.
  • Do not use machine if you find parts are missing.
  • All controls must be operating properly.
  • Avoid spillage or overfilling.
  • Do not allow people near auger when operating stop drilling if another person enters the area or approaches within 3 meters.
  • Never wear loose clothing while using auger keep clear of moving auger.
  • Inspect the area where auger is to be used. Be careful when drilling where rocks, roots or other underground obstructions could cause auger to stall.
  • Restrict access to area where auger is being operated.
  • Wearing eye, ear and foot protection is recommended.
  • Ensure proper footing while using auger.
  • Clear area of debris, etc., before drilling.
  • Maintain a good balanced posture when using auger.
  • If using a two-person auger, ensure communication with assistant is good.
  • Never force the auger allow auger to drill at its own speed.
  • Re-sharpen or replace cutting blades in case the auger is not drilling at the optimum rate.
  • Regularly lift auger from the hole for allowing the spoil to be removed from flutes of the auger.
  • Clear mud or soil from auger only after it has completely stopped.
  • Always maintain a balanced posture.
  • Ensure assistant is competent.
  • Ensure condition of cutting blades is good.
  • Ensure correctly fitting of blades.
  • Do not allow overloading of the augur.
  • Before touching auger, stop the motor.
  • Never attempt cleaning or maintenance with the engine running.
  • Auger flutes and blades have sharp nicks and edges; avoid contact with them.
  • Clean the flutes and inspect all parts of the augur for wear or damage.
  • When replacing auger, ensure all parts have been properly assembled and tightened.
  • For cleaning air and fuel-filters, follow manufacturer’s instructions.
  • To avoid sedimentation of fuel, drain the fuel tank, especially when storing for long periods.
  • Before touching auger, stop the engine.
  • Always wear gloves when handling auger.
  • Cracks and nicks should be repaired immediately.
  • Check assembly always before use.
  • Replace clogged or damaged filters.
  • Whenever possible, store in upright position.

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.