Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the step-by-step safety controls for pest control spraying, fumigation and chemical application to protect workers, the public and the environment. It is a comprehensive, pre-filled document that covers multiple aspects of pest management activities to support WHS compliance, safe chemical handling and effective pest control operations.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Assessment and identification of pest infestation issues prior to treatment selection
• Planning and implementing fumigation treatments in enclosed and open areas
• Safe application of bedbug treatment in residential, commercial and accommodation settings
• Control of insects and pests using sprays, baits, traps and integrated pest management methods
• Management of pests and disease vectors that may impact human health, animals or crops
• Dealing with harmful insects that bite, sting or transmit disease, including risk controls for worker exposure
• Conducting disease vector control activities in and around buildings, waste areas and water sources
• Fumigation of pests in soils, garden beds and landscaped areas with appropriate isolation and signage
• Safe fumigation processes in confined or poorly ventilated spaces, including air monitoring and re-entry procedures
• Implementation of pest control programs, including scheduling, documentation and client communication
• Selection, mixing and application of pesticides, fumigants and other chemicals in accordance with labels and SDS
• Use, calibration and maintenance of spraying equipment, foggers and fumigation apparatus
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, including respirators, gloves, eye and skin protection
• Storage, transport, spill management and emergency response for hazardous chemicals
• Environmental protection measures to prevent contamination of soil, waterways, non-target species and neighbouring properties

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for licensed pest controllers, fumigation technicians, facilities maintenance teams, agricultural and horticultural operators, and site supervisors managing pest control spraying and chemical application activities.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on identifying, assessing and controlling risks associated with hazardous chemicals used in pest control.
• Safe Work Australia – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for risk management applied to spraying, fumigation and chemical application tasks.
• Safe Work Australia – Labelling of Workplace Hazardous Chemicals Code of Practice: Requirements for correct labelling of pesticides, fumigants and decanted chemicals.
• Safe Work Australia – Preparation of Safety Data Sheets for Hazardous Chemicals Code of Practice: Reference for understanding and using SDS information in pest control operations.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for ventilation, amenities and safe work environments during fumigation and spraying activities.
• Safe Work Australia – First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on first aid arrangements for chemical exposure, inhalation, skin contact and stings/bites.
• Safe Work Australia – Confined Spaces Code of Practice: Applicable where fumigation or chemical application occurs in confined or poorly ventilated spaces.
• AS/NZS 1715: Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective devices for fumigation and spraying tasks.
• AS/NZS 1716: Respiratory protective devices performance requirements relevant to pesticide and fumigant exposure.
• AS 1940: The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids, where applicable to solvent-based pest control products.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017