Creating a SWMS
A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) documents high-risk construction work activities, identifies hazards, and describes control measures. CloudRent Pro helps create, manage, and track SWMS documents for your rentals.
What is a SWMS
A SWMS is required in Australia for high-risk construction work including:
Work at height (risk of falling more than 2 metres)
Work near electrical installations
Work involving powered mobile plant
Work in trenches or shafts
Work in confined spaces
The SWMS must be prepared before work starts and workers must be trained in its contents.
Creating a New SWMS
Go to the rental requiring SWMS
Click "Safety" tab
Click "Create SWMS"
Select a template or start blank
Complete the document
Save
SWMS Template Selection
Choose from pre-built templates:
Template |
Use For |
|---|---|
Scaffold Erection |
Setting up scaffolding on site |
EWP Operation |
Using elevated work platforms |
Crane Operations |
Crane lifts and rigging |
General Delivery |
Equipment delivery to construction sites |
Custom |
Build from scratch for unique situations |
💡
Tip: Create your own templates for commonly rented equipment. This saves time and ensures consistency.
SWMS Content Sections
A complete SWMS includes:
1. Document Details
Document number and revision
Date prepared
Prepared by
Review date
2. Scope of Work
Description of work activity
Location/site address
Equipment being used
Personnel involved
3. Hazard Identification
List of identified hazards
Risk rating for each hazard
Associated risks
4. Risk Controls
Control measures for each hazard
Who is responsible
When controls apply
5. PPE Requirements
Personal protective equipment required
When each item must be worn
6. Emergency Procedures
Emergency contacts
First aid location
Evacuation procedures
Adding Hazards
In the SWMS editor click "Add Hazard"
Select hazard type from library or enter custom
Rate the risk:
Likelihood |
Consequence |
Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
Almost certain |
Fatality |
Extreme |
Likely |
Major injury |
High |
Possible |
Minor injury |
Medium |
Unlikely |
First aid |
Low |
Add control measures
Re-rate residual risk
Control Hierarchy
List controls in order of effectiveness:
Elimination — Remove the hazard completely
Substitution — Replace with less hazardous option
Isolation — Separate workers from hazard
Engineering — Physical controls (guards, barriers)
Administrative — Procedures, training, signage
PPE — Personal protective equipment (last resort)
Linking to Rental
SWMS documents link to specific rentals:
Equipment pre-populated from the rental
Site address auto-filled
Customer details included
Accessible from rental record
Generating PDF
Complete the SWMS
Click "Generate PDF"
Preview the document
Download or email
The PDF includes your company branding and all content sections.
Tips for SWMS Creation
📝 Be Specific
Generic SWMS don't protect anyone. Tailor to the actual work being done.
💰 Use Templates Wisely
Templates are a starting point. Always review and customise for each job.
📂 Keep Current
Review SWMS when conditions change. A stale SWMS is a compliance risk.
🎯 Involve Workers
Those doing the work often know hazards better than office staff.
⚠️
Warning: A SWMS is a legal document. Ensure it accurately reflects the work being done and that workers are properly trained on its contents before starting work.