Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the high-risk work activities, hazards, and control measures for the transport of dangerous goods and hazardous freight in Australian workplaces. It is a comprehensive, ready-to-use document that covers multiple aspects of Dangerous Goods Transport and Hazardous Freight operations to support strong WHS compliance and risk management.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Planning and preparation for dangerous goods transportation, including route selection, load planning, and emergency readiness
• Safe loading and unloading of hazardous freight to prevent spills, leaks, and load shifts during transit
• Segregation, packaging, and securing of incompatible dangerous goods in accordance with relevant regulations and codes
• Ensuring adequate ventilation while transporting volatile, fuming, or off‑gassing substances to minimise inhalation risks and explosive atmospheres
• Inspection and screening of hazardous goods deliveries on arrival to verify documentation, labelling, and packaging integrity
• Verification of Dangerous Goods (DG) placarding, labels, and vehicle markings for clear identification during transport
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for drivers and handlers when managing dangerous or hazardous freight
• Safe operation of vehicles transporting dangerous goods, including speed management, fatigue control, and emergency stopping procedures
• Spill, leak, and contamination response procedures, including use of spill kits and isolation of affected areas
• Emergency response actions for fire, collision, rollover, or loss of containment involving dangerous goods
• Communication protocols with consignors, receivers, and emergency services regarding hazardous loads
• Documentation, manifests, and record-keeping for dangerous goods consignments and chain of responsibility obligations
• Inspection and maintenance checks of vehicles, tanks, containers, and securing equipment used for hazardous freight

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for dangerous goods transport operators, freight and logistics companies, warehouse and distribution centres, and site supervisors responsible for managing or overseeing hazardous freight movements.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail (ADG Code): Primary reference for classification, packaging, marking, and transport of dangerous goods
• Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace – Code of Practice: Guidance on identifying, assessing, and controlling risks from hazardous chemicals
• Preparation of Safety Data Sheets for Hazardous Chemicals – Code of Practice: Requirements for SDS content and availability during transport and handling
• Labelling of Workplace Hazardous Chemicals – Code of Practice: Requirements for correct labelling of hazardous chemical containers and packages
• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities – Code of Practice: Requirements for ventilation, amenities, and safe conditions when handling hazardous freight
• Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination – Code of Practice: Guidance on consulting workers and coordinating with other duty holders in the supply chain
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017