What is a SWMS? Why Safe Work Method Statements Are Critical for Brisbane Construction Sites
- StaySafe Consulting
- Apr 28
- 2 min read
In the high-risk world of construction, mining, and civil works, ensuring the health and safety of workers is not just good practice — it’s a legal requirement. One of the most important tools for managing workplace risks is the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS).
At Stay Safe Enterprises, we specialise in helping Brisbane businesses develop practical, compliant, and site-specific SWMS to protect their teams and meet their WHS obligations.
What is a SWMS?
A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a detailed document that outlines:
The specific high-risk construction activities being carried out
The hazards associated with those activities
The control measures that will be implemented to mitigate the risks
How the work will be monitored and reviewed to ensure ongoing safety
In Queensland, the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 mandates that a SWMS must be prepared for any high-risk construction work. Without a compliant SWMS, companies can face serious penalties, project shutdowns, or worse — workplace incidents and injuries.
When is a SWMS Required?
A SWMS is legally required before carrying out high-risk construction work involving activities such as:
Working at heights above 2 metres
Excavation works
Working near underground or overhead services
Operation of heavy plant and equipment
Demolition or structural alterations
Working in or near confined spaces
Handling hazardous substances (like silica dust)
If your project involves any of these risks — and especially if you're operating in the Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, or Gold Coast regions — a site-specific SWMS is essential.
Key Benefits of Having a Compliant SWMS
Legal Protection: Demonstrates that your business has taken steps to comply with WHS legislation.
Incident Prevention: Identifies hazards before work starts, helping prevent injuries and incidents.
Client and Regulator Confidence: Essential for winning tenders, passing audits, and satisfying regulator inspections.
Worker Clarity: Provides clear instructions for workers about how to do the job safely.
Evidence in Investigations: A properly prepared SWMS is a crucial document if an incident investigation or insurance claim arises.
Why Choose Stay Safe Enterprises to Develop Your SWMS?
At Stay Safe Enterprises, we provide:
Site-specific SWMS tailored to your actual tasks, hazards, and conditions — no generic templates.
Fast turnaround to meet project deadlines.
Compliance with QLD legislation and WHS regulations.
Veteran-owned expertise with real-world construction and mining experience in Brisbane and remote areas.
Integrated risk management strategies so your SWMS supports your overall safety management system.
Whether you need SWMS for a small civil project, a major infrastructure site, or ongoing mining operations, we can deliver documents that protect your business and your people.
Contact Us Today
Need help developing compliant SWMS for your next project?Contact Stay Safe Enterprises today for a free consultation and discover how we can keep your Brisbane projects compliant, safe, and on schedule.
