SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT FORM (SWMS) SOLAR SYSTEM SERVICE

This document is to be read in conjunction with any site specific adjustments as identified by the risk assessment, site induction and toolbox meeting record and must be completed on every site before starting work.

How to Complete This Form

Please read before starting

STEP 1

Review Hazards

Read through each task listed in the SWMS form. For every task, review the possible hazards described. Make sure you clearly understand the risks involved before proceeding.

STEP 2

Assess the Risk

Use the risk matrix provided to rate each hazard based on how likely it is to occur and how severe the consequences would be. Complete both the “Initial Risk” and “Residual Risk” after applying control measures.

STEP 3

Apply Controls

For each hazard, select the control measures that will be used to minimise the risk. Ensure that the controls are practical, effective, and follow Australian safety standards. This step is essential to reducing risks to a manageable level.

STEP 4

Start Work

Only begin work after all hazards have been reviewed, risks assessed, and control measures implemented. Ensure that all team members are aware of the controls in place and have signed the briefing section to confirm their understanding.

Steps in Activity	Potential Hazards	Risk Control Measure	Risk Class	Person Responsible	Controls In Place
Conduct Contactless Site Visit	Potential Hazards Interaction with people while onsite	Risk Control Measure PPE including, Mask, Hand Sanitiser, Gloves & Social Distance 1.5M	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Site Induction	Potential Hazards Uninformed workers on Site could cause injury to themselves or others	Risk Control Measure All persons on site must carry with them a current General construction induction card at all times. Where required ensure that site specific induction training is attended prior to working onsite. Ensure all personnel are informed of any changes to potential risks and hazards at the earliest opportunity by way of toolbox meeting	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Ensure all workers performing work at heights must hold a current Working at Heights, nationally recognised certification, before commencing work.	Potential Hazards Falls from height Incorrect use of fall protection equipment Serious injury or fatality due to unsafe work practices	Risk Control Measure All workers undertaking work at heights must hold a current Working at Heights competency or nationally recognised certification. Follow all company Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), safe work procedures, and permit requirements. Inspect all ladders, harnesses, anchor points and other height safety equipment before use. Remove defective equipment from service immediately. Use fall prevention measures (guardrails, scaffolds, or elevated work platforms) wherever reasonably practicable. Where these are not practicable, use an approved fall arrest system connected to a compliant anchor point. Do not perform work at heights during high winds, storms, or other unsafe weather conditions.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Personal Protective Clothing and Equipment	Potential Hazards Personal Injury	Risk Control Measure Prior to commencement of work ensure PPE is adequate for all tasks and in serviceable condition including suitable safety (capped) footwear, fully enclosed and slip resistant when working in elevated areas or on ladders. Eye protection, Ear protection, Head protection, Safety harness and associated equipment for working at heights. Tie off equipment and ladder brackets to ensure ladders are properly secured. Ensure first aid kit is available.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Working Outdoors	Potential Hazards Sunburn, skin cancer, Eye damage, heat stroke	Risk Control Measure Wear broad brimmed hat, safety sunglasses, sun protective clothing and 30+ sunscreen. Maintain hydration, drink plenty of water. Take regular breaks.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Personnel and Pedestrian Access	Potential Hazards Trip, slip hazards, Risk of falling objects	Risk Control Measure Clear obstacles from around work area, prior to commencement and during work. Keep pathways free of trip hazards. Cordon off area where potential for injury from falling objects is present.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Power tools	Potential Hazards Electrocution, Eye injuries, Hand injuries	Risk Control Measure Use the correct tool for the task at hand. Where possible use battery powered tools. Keep electrical tools away from water. Tools with power leads are to be checked that they are in test and tagged before use. Power tools are to be connected via RCD safety switch which should be tested prior to use. Check power leads for damage prior to each use. Wear the correct PPE to protect eyes. Wear gloves as required to prevent hand damage.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Weather conditions	Potential Hazards Dehydration, Changing conditions causing slippery surfaces	Risk Control Measure Check weather conditions/forecast. If unfavourable reschedule. Stop work, secure installation and leave roof if signs of storm are evident. Whilst working in heat protect body with sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. Maintain hydration.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Hand Tools	Potential Hazards Repetitive strain injury, Cuts	Risk Control Measure When using hacksaws ensure a firm but comfortable grip, use long smooth strokes. Ensure all guards are in place. When using utility knives ensure work is carried out on a firm surface and the cut is made away from the body.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Noise	Potential Hazards Hearing loss	Risk Control Measure All persons exposed to high noise levels should wear appropriate hearing protection as required	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Use of Ladders Onsite	Potential Hazards Unsecured ladder, ladder slipping, incorrect ladder angle, carrying tools while climbing, working near electrical services, weather conditions, climbing with excessive weight.	Risk Control Measure Secure ladder at top or bottom where possible and have a second person foot the ladder if required. Ensure ladder is placed on firm, level ground, with feet secure and stable at approximately 4:1 ratio (1 metre out for every 4 metres up). Use tool belts, rope systems, or lifting devices. Maintain safe clearance from power lines and electrical equipment and use non-conductive ladders where required. Do not use ladders during strong winds, storms, rain, or unsafe weather conditions. Use the ladder correctly (3 points of contact always required i.e. two hands one foot; one hand two feet) and do not exceed ladder load ratings (follow manufacturer specifications). Utilise all necessary PPE, i.e. safety glasses, footwear, work gloves and hard hat (as required).	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Manual Handling	Potential Hazards Back injuries Risk of fall	Risk Control Measure Before manually lifting consider use of mechanical assistance or another person to assist. Ensure that the path you wish to take is free of obstructions and slip hazards. Ensure the end location is clear prior to moving. Avoid awkward posture Bend knees and lift close to body, avoid bending back.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Glue and Secure PVC, Fittings	Potential Hazards Exposure to glue fumes, potential combustible material	Risk Control Measure Ensure work area is well ventilated Ensure gloves, eye wear are worn Keep glue away from naked flame	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Installing pump and Controller Indoors	Potential Hazards Water leak, electrocution, Slip hazard	Risk Control Measure Ensure adequate drainage of area in case of leak. Where possible use battery powered equipment. Use RCD if using powered equipment. Be aware of where mains power runs within walls before drilling/cutting. Mount controller in location where it is unlikely to be immersed in water in event of a pipe failure. Wear appropriate footwear to prevent slip.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Installing pumps and controllers outdoors	Potential Hazards Ingress of water, Electrocution	Risk Control Measure Determine weatherproof location for electrical equipment where it is unlikely to be affected by adverse weather to prevent risk of electrical shock.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Test and commission	Potential Hazards Water leaks, electrocution	Risk Control Measure Ensure that all joints are glued and that the glue has cured sufficiently. Inspect whole system thoroughly to ensure no leaks or potential contact with power source.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3
Clean up work area	Potential Hazards Trip slip hazard, Falling material hazard	Risk Control Measure Conduct an inspection of the entire work area ensuring that no tools or equipment has been left behind. That walking surfaces are clear of trip hazards and no substances are left behind that could cause a slip hazard. Ensure everything on the roof has been removed or secured to prevent items from falling on persons below.	Risk Class 1 2 3	Person Responsible	Controls In Place 1 2 3

Applicable Legislation	Title
Prevention of Falls In General Construction National Code of practice 2008	National Code of practice 2008
Prevention of Falls in Housing Construction Work Safe Australia Code of practice 2016	Work Safe Australia Code of practice 2016
AS 1892.5 1999 Portable ladders Part 5: Selection, safe use and care	Portable ladders Part 5: Selection, safe use and care
AS 1470 1986 Health and Safety at Work – Principles and Practices	Health and Safety at Work – Principles and Practices
Managing the risk of falls at workplaces Code of Practice 2021	Workplace Health and Safety Queensland

SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT FORM (SWMS) SOLAR SYSTEM SERVICE

How to Complete This Form

Review Hazards

Assess the Risk

Apply Controls

Start Work

Assessment of Risk

Applicable Legislation

WORK ACTIVITY BRIEFING STATEMENT

Attendees

Authorised Australian Energy System Representative to approve SWMS

Send copy (required)