Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for Handling of Raw Sewage is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls to protect workers from exposure to biological, chemical, and physical risks. It is a comprehensive document that supports WHS compliance and safe systems of work across all aspects of handling raw sewage on Australian worksites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe handling and transfer of raw sewage in pits, tanks, sumps, and collection systems
• Selection and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, respiratory protection, eye and face protection, and protective clothing
• Identification and management of biological hazards such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other pathogens present in sewage
• Control of exposure to hazardous gases and vapours, including hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), methane, and other sewer gases
• Safe manual handling techniques for hoses, suction lines, covers, grates, and associated equipment
• Decontamination procedures for workers, tools, vehicles, and equipment after contact with raw sewage
• Hygiene controls including handwashing, change areas, and prevention of cross-contamination to vehicles, lunchrooms, and home environments
• Emergency response to spills, splashes, accidental immersion, or suspected exposure to infectious material
• Isolation, lock-out and verification of pumps, valves, and other plant associated with sewage handling
• Traffic and pedestrian management when working around sewage pump stations, access chambers, and roadside pits
• Confined space risk controls when accessing or working near sewage pits, manholes, and tanks
• Safe use of vacuum trucks, pumps, and associated plant for removal and transport of raw sewage
• Environmental protection measures to prevent uncontrolled discharge of sewage to waterways, soil, or stormwater systems

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for wastewater and sewerage contractors, council and utility workers, vacuum truck operators, plumbers, maintenance crews, and site supervisors responsible for any work involving the handling of raw sewage.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – Guidance on identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls for sewage-related tasks.
• Code of Practice: Confined Spaces – Requirements for safe entry and work in pits, tanks, and manholes associated with sewage systems.
• Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks – Controls for lifting, carrying, and handling equipment and components used in sewage work.
• Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities – Hygiene, washing facilities, and decontamination provisions for workers handling raw sewage.
• Code of Practice: First Aid in the Workplace – Guidance on first aid arrangements for exposure incidents, splashes, and related injuries.
• AS/NZS 1715: Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment – Requirements for respiratory protection when working around sewer gases and aerosols.
• AS/NZS 1716: Respiratory Protective Devices – Performance standards for respirators used during sewage handling operations.
• AS/NZS 4501: Occupational Protective Clothing – Requirements for protective clothing used in contaminated sewage environments.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017