Mulcher – Tractor Mounted Safe Work Method Statement

Mulcher – Tractor Mounted Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS Template) delivered in Microsoft Word format for easy editing.

Mulcher – Tractor Mounted Safe Work Method Statement

Mulcher – Tractor Mounted 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 Mulcher - Tractor Mounted 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, 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 Mulcher – Tractor Mounted 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. Entry and exit
  9. Operator position
  10. Attachments
  11. Travel
  12. Operation
  13. Parking
  14. Maintenance
  15. On completion

The Mulcher – Tractor Mounted Safe Work Method Statement, includes;


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

Your Mulcher – Tractor Mounted 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. Keep hands and limbs clear of all chutes and hoppers when the mulcher is in operation.
  2. Do not attempt to mulch material that is too large to fit in the hopper.
  3. Do not attempt to mulch hot or smouldering material.

Mulcher – Tractor Mounted Safe Work Method Statement

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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 Mulcher – Tractor Mounted Safe Work Method Statement, the first step is to create the document asa Safe Work Method Statement Template. This way, you can use the same SWMSTemplate and then adjust the document for each different mulcher – tractor mounted project as needed, making sure that your Mulcher – Tractor Mounted SWMS Template addresses any site specific risks.

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Mulcher – Tractor Mounted SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own mulcher – tractor mounted SWMS.

There are some fundamental requirements and information which you may want to consider adding to your Mulcher – Tractor Mounted SWMS such as:

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

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

Your Mulcher – Tractor Mounted Safe Work Method Statement Template should list any high risk construction work, such as:

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

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

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

When the Mulcher – Tractor Mounted SWMS has been revised, the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure:

  1. All persons involved in the mulcher – tractor mounted work are advised that a revision has been made and how they can access the revised Mulcher – Tractor Mounted 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 Mulcher –Tractor Mounted SWMS; and,
  3. Workers that will be involved in the mulcher – tractor mounted work are provided with the relevant information and instruction that will assist them to understand and implement the revised Mulcher – Tractor Mounted SWMS.

When preparing your Mulcher – Tractor Mounted 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 Mulcher– Tractor Mounted.

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

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

Assessment of Site Conditions

Thoroughly assess the work site/area conditions when working with mulcher - tractor mounted and ensure that: 

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

Mulcher – Tractor Mounted Training and Worker Qualifications

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

Below are some examples of some Control Measures to be implemented when creating your own Mulcher –Tractor Mounted Safe Work Method Statement Template: 

  • Inspect the battery, coolant, transmission oil, engine oil, hydraulic oil and fuel.
  • Check the pressure and condition of tires. Remove any mud lumps from the treads.
  • Inspect instruments, lights, reversing alarm and horn.
  • Test the steering both ways, and check par brake and braking operation.
  • If travelling, separated brake pedals must be locked separately.
  • Ensure proper operation of controls and verify they return to centre when released.
  • Check the skirt to ensure all chains are in place and rubber skirting is intact.
  • Ensure that deck wheels turn and rotate freely and that tires are inflated.
  • Wearing eye and hand protection is recommended.
  • Never use the tractor if controls are faulty.
  • While mounting or dismounting tractor, always maintain three points of contact at all times.
  • Suitable non-slip footwear must be used by the operator.
  • Non-slip ladders and steps must be provided.
  • Wearing foot protection is recommended.
  • Adjust the seat to achieve a comfortable seating position.
  • Make sure seat belt is fitted, adjusted correctly and used when the machine is operated.
  • All levers and gages must be clearly identified and remain within easy reach.
  • Enclosed cabins must have adequate ventilation.
  • Exhaust should be so positioned as not to allow any fumes to enter the cabin.
  • Before commencing work, clean and adjust the mirrors. If bumped, readjust.
  • Before operating, adjust seat.
  • Wearing seat belt is required.
  • Inspect the mulcher body for missing, loose, damaged or worn parts.
  • Inspect the shafts and teeth for excessive wear.
  • Inspect hoses and drives for any fractures, splits or leaks.
  • Make sure that power take-off point and driveshaft have guards fitted. Guards must enclose the entire shaft for preventing any part of a person's clothing being exposed to a moving part.
  • Ensure that the slasher deck is fitted securely and there are no loose bolts or pins.
  • Before moving, make sure that attachment is properly fitted to a 3-point linkage.
  • Raise and lower the attachment to test the operation.
  • For attaching equipment, use only the supplied mounting parts or the drawbar.
  • Do not hitch to the top linking pin, to axle housing or above rear axle.
  • Do not operate 3-point linkage if there is a person between the implement and the tractor.
  • Wearing gloves is recommended.
  • Never place any part of the body under mulcher unless mulcher is properly supported.
  • All moving parts and shafts must have guards fitted.
  • Locking pins must be fitted.
  • Attachments must be fitted according to the instructions of the manufacturer.
  • Attachment must be in raised position for traveling.
  • Never carry passengers, unless proper seat with seat belts is fitted.
  • Never travel at speeds which could cause a loss of control, when over bumps, etc.
  • Do not drive over drains, ditches, obstacles, etc., that may affect control.
  • Do not travel across slope on a steep incline.
  • Do not turn at speed or make sharp turns.
  • Before traveling, check the terrain.
  • Do not change gear over slopes.
  • When traveling down a slope, use a low gear and use the engine compression as brake.
  • When turning, slow down.
  • For proper visibility and stability, carry mulcher close to ground.
  • Start mulcher drive only when ready to commence working.
  • During operation, where hazards may be encountered, use appropriate protective equipment.
  • If enclosed cabin is not provided, wear dust mask in dusty conditions.
  • Wearing eye protection is recommended.
  • Unless soundproof cabin is provided, wearing hearing protection is recommended.
  • Wearing high-visibility garment is recommended.
  • Wearing P1 particulate mask is recommended.
  • As far as possible, park on level ground.
  • If parking on sloping ground, position the machine up and down the slope.
  • Place the transmission in park or neutral position and apply handbrake.
  • Lower the attachment until attachment is flat on ground.
  • Switch off the engine, remove the keys and lock the cabin before leaving the machine unattended.
  • Before dismounting, stop tractor completely.
  • Make sure the machine cannot move.
  • Never leave the tractor unattended, with the engine running.
  • Before working on machine, make sure the mulcher rotor cannot operate.
  • Before carrying out work under mulcher, make sure the mulcher is fully supported and prevented from falling. Never use props to support attachment.
  • Underside of mulcher will have collected dust and debris.
  • Metal parts such as bolts, teeth, etc., will develop nicks and sharp edges in use.
  • For handling awkwardly shaped or heavy objects, obtain assistance.
  • When replacing or removing, avoid dropping components.
  • Disengage drive after turning off engine.
  • For working under mulcher, use lockable stands or chains to support mulcher.
  • Wearing eye protection is recommended.
  • Wearing hand protection is recommended.
  • Proper lifting practices must be followed.
  • Wearing Type 1 footwear is recommended.

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.