Product Overview

This 4WD Safety Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the step-by-step procedures and controls to safely operate four-wheel drive vehicles in off-road and challenging site conditions, helping you maintain WHS compliance and due diligence. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of 4WD safety, from vehicle preparation and safe driving techniques to emergency response on Australian worksites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe operation of off-road and four-wheel drive vehicles on construction, civil and remote worksites
• Driving techniques for managing rough, uneven and rutted terrain while maintaining vehicle stability
• Correct engagement and disengagement of four-wheel drive modes, including high and low range selection
• Negotiating steep inclines, declines and side slopes while minimising rollover and loss-of-control risks
• Operating in challenging terrains such as mud, sand, loose gravel, rocks and water crossings
• Pre-start inspections of 4WD vehicles, including tyres, suspension, steering, lights and safety equipment
• Selection and use of appropriate tyres, recovery points and vehicle accessories for off-road conditions
• Journey planning for remote or off-road travel, including communication, navigation and fatigue management
• Traffic management and interaction with other plant, vehicles, pedestrians and work activities on site
• Use of seatbelts, load restraint and securing tools, equipment and materials within and on the vehicle
• Safe use of basic recovery equipment (e.g. snatch straps, jacks, traction aids) within manufacturer limits
• Managing environmental conditions such as dust, rain, low visibility and extreme heat during 4WD operations
• Emergency procedures for breakdowns, bogging, vehicle incidents and remote-area response

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for civil and construction contractors, mining and resources operators, utilities and maintenance crews, remote area workers, and site supervisors who manage or operate four-wheel drive vehicles on or around Australian worksites.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on managing risks associated with vehicles used as plant on worksites.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for ensuring safe access, egress and conditions where 4WD vehicles operate.
• Safe Work Australia – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for hazard identification, risk assessment and control for 4WD operations.
• Safe Work Australia – Fatigue Management Guidance Material: Principles for managing driver fatigue during extended or remote 4WD travel.
• AS/NZS 4024 Safety of Machinery (relevant parts): General principles for guarding and safe use of plant that may interact with site vehicles.
• AS/NZS 3000 Electrical Installations (Wiring Rules) (where applicable): For safely installed electrical accessories and power supplies on work vehicles.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017