Product Overview

This Confined Spaces Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement effective controls for all work carried out in or around confined spaces. It is a comprehensive, ready-to-use document that supports contractors and PCBU’s in achieving WHS compliance and managing the risks associated with confined space entry on Australian worksites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Planning and risk assessment for confined space work, including entry permits and authorisations
• Identification of confined spaces, restricted spaces, and associated access/egress hazards
• Atmospheric testing, gas monitoring, and continuous air quality verification prior to and during entry
• Isolation, lockout and tagging of services such as electricity, gas, fluids, and mechanical equipment
• Ventilation and purging of confined spaces to minimise the risk of asphyxiation, toxic exposure, or flammable atmospheres
• Selection, inspection, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory protection where required
• Use of communication systems between entrants, stand-by person, and supervisors
• Emergency response planning, rescue procedures, and coordination with emergency services
• Training and competency requirements for confined space workers, spotters, and permit issuers
• Control of hot work, welding, cutting, or use of ignition sources within or near confined spaces
• Management of environmental hazards such as noise, heat stress, poor lighting, and slippery surfaces
• Housekeeping, waste removal, and safe demobilisation after completion of confined space tasks

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for contractors, maintenance teams, plumbers, electricians, industrial cleaners, tank and pit service providers, utility workers, and site supervisors who manage or perform confined space work.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Confined Spaces Code of Practice: Guidance on managing risks associated with work in confined spaces.
• Safe Work Australia – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying hazards, assessing, and controlling risks.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for safe access, egress, and work conditions.
• AS 2865 Confined Spaces: Requirements for the safe working in and around confined spaces, including entry procedures and emergency response.
• AS/NZS 1715: Selection, use, and maintenance of respiratory protective devices for confined space atmospheres.
• AS/NZS 1716: Performance requirements for respiratory protective devices used in hazardous atmospheres.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017