Ladders SWMS

Product Overview

This SWMS covers planning, transporting, inspecting, positioning and using ladders, stepladders and platforms, as well as packing up. It supports planning by addressing fall, manual handling, electrical, weather, traffic and falling-object risks.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes task-specific risk controls for:

• Plan the work and select suitable access
• Set up and control the work area
• Transport ladders to the work location
• Inspect ladders before use
• Position ladders on stable ground
• Access roofs or upper levels
• Use stepladders and platforms
• Climb and position safely
• Carry out light tasks from a ladder
• Lift tools and materials
• Manage electrical and weather conditions
• Reposition, pack up and sign off

Who is this for?

For contractors, workers, supervisors and businesses using ladders, stepladders or platforms for the named activities.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

The template includes references relevant to the documented work, including:

• Applicable Commonwealth, state or territory WHS/OHS legislation and regulations, including duties to manage health and safety risks, provide safe plant and systems of work, consult workers, provide information, training, instruction and supervision, and manage fall risks.
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces (guidance only; confirm adoption and status in the relevant jurisdiction).
• Model Code of Practice: Construction Work (guidance only; confirm adoption and status in the relevant jurisdiction).
• Model Code of Practice: Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace (guidance only; confirm adoption and status in the relevant jurisdiction).
• AS/NZS 1892 series, Portable ladders, including AS/NZS 1892.5 Selection, safe use and care.
• AS 1657:2018, Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders—Design, construction and installation.
• AS/NZS 1891.4:2025, Personal equipment for work at height—Selection, use and maintenance, where a fall-arrest or restraint system is specified.
• AS/NZS 3012, Electrical installations—Construction and demolition sites, where temporary electrical equipment is used.

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Standard SWMS Features (Click to Expand)

• Task-specific job steps, hazards and control measures
• Initial and residual risk ratings
• Assigned responsible persons for each job step
• Plant, equipment and PPE requirements where applicable
• Permits, qualifications and high-risk construction work details where applicable
• Worker consultation, sign-off and review sections