Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for Hook Lift Operation is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls for the safe use of hook lift trucks and equipment on Australian worksites. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of hook lift operation safety and supports ongoing WHS compliance for PCBU’s, contractors, and operators.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Pre-start inspection of hook lift trucks, lifting arms, hydraulic systems, and safety devices
• Selection and use of suitable hook lift bins, containers, and attachments for the required load
• Safe positioning of vehicles prior to loading or unloading hook lift bins on site
• Operation of hydraulic controls for lifting, lowering, and tipping hook lift bins
• Management of load stability, bin alignment, and securing of loads for transport
• Traffic management around hook lift operations, including exclusion zones and spotters
• Working on uneven ground, slopes, and restricted access areas with hook lift vehicles
• Loading and unloading near overhead powerlines, underground services, and other utilities
• Manual handling associated with tarping, chaining, and securing hook lift bins
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for drivers, offsiders, and ground personnel
• Managing noise, dust, and environmental impacts when operating hook lift equipment
• Emergency procedures for equipment failure, hydraulic leaks, and uncontrolled movements
• Isolation, lock-out and tagging procedures during maintenance or repair of hook lift systems
• Transport of hook lift bins on public roads, including tie-down and load restraint compliance

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for waste management operators, civil and construction contractors, transport companies, recycling facilities, and site supervisors overseeing hook lift truck operations.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017
• Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace – guidance on safe use, inspection, and maintenance of hook lift trucks as plant
• Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – framework for identifying hazards and implementing control measures for hook lift operations
• Code of Practice: Traffic Management in Workplaces – requirements for managing vehicle and pedestrian interactions around hook lift loading areas
• Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks – controls for manual handling involved in tarping, chaining, and handling bin components
• Code of Practice: Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work – guidance for noise exposure from heavy vehicle and hydraulic equipment operation
• AS/NZS 4024 Safety of Machinery – principles for guarding, emergency stops, and safety controls on machinery and plant
• AS/NZS 1210 Road Tank Vehicles and Load Restraint (relevant sections) – principles of load restraint and secure transport of loads on vehicles