Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement

Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS Template) delivered in Microsoft Word format for easy editing.

Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement

Vehicle Loading Crane 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 Vehicle Loading Crane 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 Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) covers;

  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. Design and controls
  8. Pre-start checks
  9. General precautions
  10. Travel
  11. Site safety
  12. Operation
  13. On completion

The Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement, includes;


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

Your Vehicle Loading Crane 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.

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. Ensure loads are secured and arranged properly before transport.
  2. Loading areas should be free from hazards.
  3. Loading area should be free of traffic.

Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement

  • High quality and ready to use Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement.
  • Instant Delivery.
  • Fully editable Safe Work Method Statement Template.
  • Easy to customise - instructions included.
  • Referenced to AS/NZS (Standards) 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 Vehicle Loading Crane 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 vehicle loading crane project as needed, making sure that your Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS Template addresses any site specific risks.

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own vehicle loading crane SWMS.

There are some fundamental requirements and information which you may want to consider adding to your Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS such as: 

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

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

Your Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement Template should list any high risk construction work, such as:

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

Your Vehicle Loading Crane Safe Work Method Statement should also identify any high-risk machinery or equipment in operation near the worksite, such as:

  • Forklift
  • Crane
  • Hoist
  • Working In Public Areas
  • Backhoe
  • Loader
  • Boom Lift
  • Elevated Work Platform (EWP)
  • Genie Lift
  • Trencher
  • Drilling Rig
  • Trucks
  • Formwork
  • Bobcat
  • Flammable Gas
  • Fuel
  • Dozer
  • High Voltage
  • Mulcher
  • Tilt-up Panels
  • Roller
  • Scissor Lift
  • Tractor 

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

When the Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS has been revised, the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure:

  1. All persons involved in the vehicle loading crane work are advised that a revision has been made and how they can access the revised Vehicle Loading Crane 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 Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS; and,
  3. Workers that will be involved in the vehicle loading crane work are provided with the relevant information and instruction that will assist them to understand and implement the revised Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS.

When preparing your Vehicle Loading Crane 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 Vehicle Loading Crane.

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

  • Health and Safety guidelines for vehicle loading crane work
  • Emergency plans and evacuation procedures for the Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS
  • Worker inductions for Vehicle Loading Crane
  • Toolbox talks (safety meetings) added to the Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS
  • Outline details of supervision of the site and workers on the Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS
  • Check all workers qualifications, permits and competencies for Vehicle Loading Crane operations
  • Ensure the Vehicle Loading Crane and any related equipment is functioning correctly
  • Hazard reporting procedures in place and added to the Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS
  • Incident reporting procedures in place and added to the Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS
  • Exclusion zones when conducting vehicle loading crane work
  • Risk Assessment for TASK completed and noted on the Vehicle Loading Crane 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 vehicle loading crane work is conducted
  2. Suitable access and adequate space to conduct vehicle loading crane work safely
  3. Consult with all stakeholders on potential hazards and risks when conducting vehicle loading crane work
  4. Consultation with all relevant workers and personnel for Vehicle Loading Crane SWMS details
  5. If conducting Vehicle Loading Crane at night, ensure there is adequate lighting
  6. Check that the work environment is suitable for vehicle loading crane work 

Vehicle Loading Crane Training and Worker Qualifications

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

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

  • Assess the design of truck as well as crane for determining the areas where there can be a risk of being struck by moving loads or parts because of inadvertent operation regularly advise and train operators for risk of injury existing during use.
  • Ensure that controls are of the constant pressure or dead man type.
  • Ensure that all controls are clearly marked with symbols as specified in AS 1418.11 for details of markings refer AS 1418.11: Cranes, hoists and winches Vehicle-loading cranes.
  • At every control station, provide clearly marked emergency stopping devices that can bring the crane to a complete stop when activated.
  • Always provide rated capacity limiters on vehicle loading cranes with:
  • maximum rated capacity of one tonne or greater, or
  • gross lifting moment of 40kNm or greater.
  • Clearly mark stabiliser extensions and legs with diagonal black and yellow stripes between 40-150 mm width and 30°„-60°„ inclination to horizontal.
  • Inspect all the booms and jib regularly for evidence of damage or distortion.
  • Periodically check fluid and oil levels, while inspecting all the hoses, pipes and rams for leaks.
  • Regularly inspect all the tyres, check lights, steering, horn, flasher, steering, and controls.
  • Regularly inspect all the winch cable, hook, slings and chain sets, rings and terminal fittings.
  • Clearly mark all slings, sets and fittings with working load limits - Use only approved lifting gear.
  • Check that the load chart is fitted, and load gauge (if fitted) is operating.
  • Always report any damage or distortion immediately never use the crane until a competent person has inspected it and deemed it safe for use.
  • Make sure that basic PPE for construction site work is onboard and is being worn - wearing head, eye and foot protection and high-visibility garment on construction sites is necessary.
  • Make sure that log books are up to date, on board and available for inspection.
  • Always check access to the site or job, and the ground conditions that can be expected provide pads or packing.
  • Check the type and weight of loads to be lifted and whether special fittings will be required, for example plate lifters, spreader bars, etc. make sure special fittings are available for difficult loads or locations.
  • Allow only a qualified person to sling loads over one tonne or complex / unusual loads.
  • Check if any additional PPE is needed in case of unusual construction site requirements.
  • Check whether dog man (if required) will be available on site or must be provided.
  • Obtain name and details of person who will be in charge of work on site.
  • Make sure that the load is securely tied down, and that crane or lifter is properly folded, stowed and locked against movement before travelling use only approved devices to secure load against movement during travel.
  • Make suer all packing, chains, ropes and slings, etc., are cleaned up and stowed away safely before commencing travel.
  • Select optimal route with adequate width and height clearances for loaded vehicle check for overhead electric wires and catenary.
  • Always check access to site or job, and the type of ground conditions that can be expected make sure proper pads or packing are available.
  • Check type and weight of loads to be lifted, and assess whether special fittings will be required, for example, plate lifters, spreader bars, etc. ensure that special fittings are available for difficult loads or locations.
  • Check for presence of overhead electric wiring and maintain safe distance identify overhead catenaries with suitable warning markers.
  • Liaise with the contact on site to find out who will be supervising the work there and obtain any specific instructions relating to the job to be done.
  • If expecting disruptions from other traffic on site, make available traffic controller for crane operations ensure proper directions to traffic controller.
  • Where working on or in near roadways, lane closures and traffic control is necessary, make sure of the safety of workers, motorists and public permit to work may be required. Use of proper road work signage is necessary.
  • Restrict access to working area where crane is to work wearing high-visibility garments is necessary.
  • Make sure that adequate space is available to access materials, etc., to be lifted.
  • If necessary, place pads or packing under outriggers to make sure of the stability of the vehicle when lifting loads never lift loads unless the crane is on a sound, stable surface.
  • Never operate a vehicle loading crane in pick and carry mode always place load on truck to transport.
  • Make sure that outriggers are placed on firm, level and stable surface level the crane before operating.
  • Lock all outrigger arms in position before moving or operating the crane.
  • Never exceed safe loads as specified on the crane’s load charts always add mass of sheaves, fittings, etc.
  • Make sure that cables and loads being slung never come into close to electric wiring and installations use observer to make sure that safe approach distance is maintained.
  • Always use tail ropes on loads to control from safe position and prevent swinging keep persons away from loads.
  • Cranes with controls on vehicle must be unfolded and stowed from side of crane opposite the jib stand well away if operating with a remote control unit.
  • Always position operators on opposite side of truck to that on which the load will be moved.
  • Never extend boom extensions until main boom is in upright position.
  • Operators must make sure that they and their assistants are positioned where they will not be struck by the crane or load and have a ready escape route ensure that operators have a clear view of the area where load is to be moved.
  • Make sure that loads are not snagged during movement.
  • Make sure that all persons are away from area where load is being moved.
  • Avoid swinging loads towards side of truck where the operator is standing.

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.