Working at heights is one of the most common high-risk activities across industries such as construction, maintenance, mining, logistics, and even facilities management. Whether it involves scaffolding, ladders, elevated platforms, or roof access, tasks performed above ground level come with significant risks. In fact, falls from height remain one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and serious injuries worldwide.

In Australia, strict laws and regulations govern how employers and contractors manage these risks. One of the most effective and legally required tools for ensuring safe practices is the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS). In this guide, we will explore the importance of SWMS for working at heights, outline legal requirements, explain what should be included, and provide best practices to ensure compliance and worker protection.

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Understanding SWMS

A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a document that sets out high-risk construction work activities, the hazards associated with those activities, and the control measures to be put in place. Its purpose is to ensure that risks are managed effectively, and that workers understand their responsibilities before starting the job.

In Australia, SWMS are required for 18 types of high-risk construction work, as defined by the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations. One of these categories is “work that involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres.” This makes working at heights a key focus area for safety documentation.

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Why SWMS for Working at Heights is Essential

1. Legal Compliance

Employers and contractors are legally required to prepare and follow an SWMS before undertaking high-risk tasks. Failure to comply can result in penalties, project delays, or prosecution.

2. Risk Reduction

By clearly documenting hazards and control measures, SWMS helps reduce the likelihood of accidents. It provides a structured plan for safe work and ensures all workers are on the same page.

3. Communication Tool

An SWMS is not just a formality, it is a communication tool. It allows managers to brief workers, subcontractors, and site visitors on what is expected.

4. Accountability

When documented properly, an SWMS holds all parties accountable for following agreed safety procedures. It ensures supervisors and workers understand their roles and responsibilities.

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Key Hazards of Working at Heights

Before writing any SWMS, organisations must first identify the hazards involved. Common risks include:

Each of these hazards must be documented in the SWMS along with the relevant controls.

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What to Include in an SWMS

A high-quality SWMS for working at heights should contain the following:

1. Description of the activity – Outline the task being performed (e.g., installing roof sheeting, using an Elevated Work Platform).
2. Hazard identification – List all potential risks associated with the task.
3. Risk assessment – Evaluate the likelihood and consequence of each hazard.
4. Control measures – Detail how each risk will be controlled using the hierarchy of controls:
   • Elimination
   • Substitution
   • Engineering controls
   • Administrative controls
   • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
5. Implementation responsibilities – Assign roles for supervisors, workers, and safety officers.
6. Review process – Describe how the SWMS will be monitored, updated, and communicated.

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Best Practices for Developing SWMS

• Involve workers: Those performing the task should contribute to writing the SWMS. Their practical knowledge ensures accuracy.
• Keep it clear and simple: Avoid jargon. Use plain language so all workers can understand.
• Use checklists and tables: Visual formats make the SWMS easier to follow.
• Update regularly: Revise the document when new equipment, processes, or hazards are introduced.
• Make it accessible: The SWMS should be available on-site and reviewed before work begins.

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Legal Requirements in Australia

Work Health and Safety laws are harmonised across most states and territories, with each jurisdiction requiring SWMS for high-risk construction work. Key legal points include:

• The PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) must ensure SWMS are prepared before work begins.
• SWMS must be kept and readily available for workers and regulators.
• SWMS must be reviewed and revised when work conditions change.
• Regulators such as Safe Work Australia, WorkSafe Victoria, and SafeWork NSW provide guidance materials and templates.

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Example Controls for Working at Heights

To give a practical sense of how hazards translate into controls, here are examples:

• Hazard: Falls from ladders

Control: Use platform ladders or Elevated Work Platforms instead; secure ladders on stable surfaces; limit duration of ladder use.

• Hazard: Falling objects

Control: Install toe boards, use tool lanyards, and establish exclusion zones below work areas.

• Hazard: Weather conditions

Control: Suspend work during high winds, heavy rain, or poor visibility.

• Hazard: Incorrect PPE use

Control: Provide training in harness use; ensure equipment is inspected before each shift.

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Case Study: Roofing Company in Queensland

A roofing contractor in Queensland implemented a new SWMS after a near-miss incident where a worker slipped while installing tiles. The revised SWMS included:

• Mandatory use of fall arrest harnesses for tasks above two metres.
• Daily pre-start checks of anchor points and harnesses.
• Clear exclusion zones marked below working areas.
• Toolbox talks conducted every morning.

As a result, incident rates dropped significantly, and both supervisors and workers reported greater confidence in their safety procedures.

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The Role of Training and Competency

SWMS are only as effective as the people implementing them. Training ensures workers understand not only the content but also why the controls are necessary. Competency checks, refresher courses, and supervisor monitoring help embed safety behaviours.

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Technology and SWMS

Digital platforms now make SWMS easier to develop, distribute, and track. Some features include:

• Mobile access for workers in the field.
• Pre-filled templates for common high-risk tasks.
• Automated reminders for reviews and updates.
• Integration with incident reporting systems.

These innovations ensure SWMS are not just documents filed away but living tools that actively support safety.

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Common Mistakes in SWMS Development

• Copy-pasting generic templates without tailoring to specific tasks.
• Overcomplicating language so workers do not understand the document.
• Failing to involve workers who actually perform the task.
• Not reviewing after incidents or changes to equipment.
• Treating SWMS as paperwork only rather than a communication tool.

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Continuous Improvement

Safety is a journey, not a destination. Organisations must continuously refine their SWMS and safety systems through:

By embedding continuous improvement, organisations create a strong safety culture that reduces risks and builds resilience.

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Conclusion

Working at heights presents significant dangers, but with the right systems in place, these risks can be managed effectively. A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides a structured, legally compliant, and practical framework for identifying hazards, implementing controls, and protecting workers.

By involving employees, tailoring documents to the task, and embracing digital tools, organisations can transform SWMS from a compliance exercise into a valuable tool for communication, training, and accountability.

Ultimately, the goal is not only to prevent incidents but to create a workplace where safety is part of everyday culture. For businesses across Australia, implementing a strong SWMS working at heights strategy is a critical step towards safeguarding workers, meeting legal obligations, and building trust with clients and communities. A well-developed SWMS working at heights document is more than just a requirement, it is an investment in people, productivity, and reputation. When organisations truly embrace SWMS working at heights practices, they demonstrate a commitment to ensuring every worker goes home safe at the end of the day.

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