Tree Lopping And Pruning Safe Work Method Statement

Tree Lopping And Pruning Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS Template) delivered in Microsoft Word format for easy editing.

Tree Lopping And Pruning Safe Work Method Statement

Tree Lopping And Pruning Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)

Looking to start work on site? Or maybe you're just looking to make your workplace safer, or possibly you're going for that next Government Tender - Either way, the Tree Lopping And Pruning Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is comprehensive, easy to understand and is designed to be implemented into your business with as little fuss as possible.

Look, we understand business can be hard enough as it is without all the red tape, often written in language only a martian would understand. That's why every Safe Work Method Statement Template is written in an easy to understand format, while at the same time being some of the highest quality in the industry. Our SWMS documents get you on site, save you loads of time and are easy to use. This way, you can get on with doing what you do best.


The Tree Lopping And Pruning Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) covers the following Job Steps, including potential hazards, control measures and risk ratings:

  1. Planning and preparation
  2. Training and capabilities
  3. Assess onsite conditions
  4. Set up work area
  5. Temporary Traffic Control (TMP)
  6. Delivery of materials and equipment
  7. General precautions
  8. Work planning
  9. Working at heights
  10. Electrical hazards
  11. Work near overhead conductors
  12. Pruning and lopping
  13. Site clean up
  14. On completion

The Tree Lopping And Pruning Safe Work Method Statement Includes


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

Your Tree Lopping And Pruning Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) 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.

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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 Tree Lopping and Pruning 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 tree lopping and pruning project as needed, making sure that your Tree Lopping and Pruning SWMS Template addresses any site specific risks.

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Tree Lopping and Pruning SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own tree lopping and pruning SWMS.

There are some fundamental requirements and information which you may want to consider adding to your Tree Lopping and Pruning SWMS such as:

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

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

Your Tree Lopping and Pruning Safe Work Method Statement Template should list any high risk construction work, such as: 

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

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

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

When the Tree Lopping and Pruning SWMS has been revised, the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure:  

  1. All persons involved in the tree lopping and pruning work are advised that a revision has been made and how they can access the revised Tree Lopping and Pruning 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 Tree Lopping and Pruning SWMS; and,
  3. Workers that will be involved in the tree lopping and pruning work are provided with the relevant information and instruction that will assist them to understand and implement the revised Tree Lopping and Pruning SWMS.

When preparing your Tree Lopping and Pruning 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 Tree Lopping and Pruning.

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

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

Assessment of Site Conditions

Thoroughly assess the work site/area conditions when excavating and ensure that:

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

Tree Lopping and Pruning Training and Worker Qualifications

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

Below are some examples of some Control Measures to be implemented when creating your own Tree Lopping and Pruning Safe Work Method Statement Template: 

  • Individuals carrying out tree loping and pruning must be instructed in proper safety procedures and precautions to be followed.
  • Do not allow unauthorised entry. Use barricades and warning signals to keep all other persons away from the cutting area.
  • Maintain adequate space for pedestrians and traffic to pass safely. If space is insufficient, consider the use of road closure or a traffic controller.
  • At all times, have a competent person in charge of the work site.
  • Prevent any unauthorised entry by securing the work area.
  • Refer to SWP289 Working on Roads.
  • For accessing the work area, consider the use of safe means such as elevating work platforms.
  • When lopping or pruning with a chain saw, cut only to shoulder height to prevent loss of control.
  • Ensure a clear escape route from the cutting area. A pruned falling branch can swing unpredictably.
  • Do not work alone. Station an observer in a safe position to render assistance when required and to warn of any dangers.
  • Make sure there is a first aid kit near the cutting area.The kit must be well stocked.
  • Refer to SWP254, Working at Heights.
  • Position the platform to cut branches without having to reach out.
  • All fallen timber and debris should be immediately removed from the work area.
  • Never stand in or under the cutting zone.
  • The observer must be able to operate a chain saw if required.
  • Before raising platform or boom, make sure the reach equipment is placed on a level surface. If placed on an uneven surface, level it with outriggers.
  • Make sure persons in reach equipment bucket or in EPV are wearing the proper safety harnesses that will prevent them from falling on to any part of the machine or to the ground.
  • When working at heights, never reach out, over-reach beyond the confines of the cage.
  • Make sure all access gates on the bucket are closed and are locked in place.
  • Make sure the total load in the cage or bucket, including materials, equipment, tools and personnel, does not exceed the unit's safe working load.
  • Prevent material and tools from falling during use.Lanyards, etc. must be used.
  • Powered equipment such as chainsaws must be started outside the bucket.
  • Before raising the boom, make sure the vehicle is parked on a firm and stable surface.
  • Do not wear belts, use only parachute type harness.
  • Never open the gates when working elevated.
  • Do not make any jerky or sudden movements.
  • Be careful not to go beyond the safe working load of theEPV.
  • Use secure anchorage points to attach.
  • Never carry fuel in the bucket.
  • Identify the location of overhead electrical installations in the work area.
  • When working on live electrical installations, always use an insulated EPV.
  • Unless specifically authorised to carry out or access electrical work, keep a safe distance from electrical wires. Safe clearance distances must be observed.
  • When working near live electric wires, post competent observers.
  • Unless authorised for live electrical work, keep a safe distance from electrical catenary wires.
  • A clearance of a minimum of 0.5m must be ensured for tools and equipment from the LV wires.
  • Exercise extra precautions when working near or on live electrical equipment such as uninsulated overhead conductors.
  • Always treat any electrical installation or equipment as live, unless it is proven to be de-energised.
  • When working near live electrical conductors, wear and use equipment and clothing that is electrically safe.
  • If it is impossible to carry out work without approaching within the safe approach distances, contact the electrical authority for determining a safe method of carrying out the work, by isolating the circuit if necessary.
  • When working near power lines, always position an observer to warn of possible encroachments.
  • Refer to SWP529 Work Near Overhead Power Lines.
  • Live or untested electrical equipment must never be approached or touched.
  • All protective equipment and clothing must conform to relevant AS/NZ standards.
  • Proved a dedicated observer.
  • For achieving the desired results, plan the sequence of cuts and work out the task.
  • Prevent bark stripping by making relief cuts on the underside of large branches.
  • Consider the type and size of the tree, its accessibility, height from the ground, etc., to select the most suitable cutting tools and equipment for the work to be carried out.
  • Make sure all equipment and tools are properly maintained and sharpened.
  • Before cutting a branch, make sure all persons under the branch are in the clear.
  • Larger branches must be cut in sections for providing better control. Removing cut branches from the work area reduces the risk of injury to persons cutting on the ground.
  • Make sure that branches cut do not affect the stability of equipment and machinery used for access.
  • Plan the cuts to make sure the severed branch will fall in the intended direction.
  • It is necessary to wear safety footwear, protective clothing, gloves, eye and hearing protection and head protection.
  • Proper handling practices must be observed.
  • If a mulcher is used for disposing of debris on site, refer to SWP480 Mulcher.
  • For removing heavy, awkward or larger sections, always obtain assistance.
  • Remove all the sap, debris and clean all tools and equipment.
  • Before allowing persons to re-enter site or removing barricades, make sure that all equipment and tools have been removed and the site is safe.
  • Proper handling practices must be observed.

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.