Manual Handling and Hazardous Manual Tasks SWMS

Product Overview

This SWMS covers planning and carrying out manual handling and hazardous manual tasks, including load movement, stacking and repetitive work. It supports work planning and risk management for high-force tasks, awkward postures, unstable loads, mechanical aids, slips, crush injuries, fatigue and strains.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes task-specific risk controls for:

• Plan handling tasks, staffing and work sequence
• Prepare access, staging and storage areas
• Unload incoming materials
• Inspect loads and handling equipment
• Use mechanical handling aids
• Lift, carry and team-lift loads
• Move loads on stairs
• Stack and palletise goods
• Carry out repetitive manual tasks
• Handle chemicals and machinery-associated loads
• Clean up and sign off

Who is this for?

Suitable for contractors, workers, supervisors and businesses carrying out manual handling and hazardous manual tasks.

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: manage risks to health and safety, including musculoskeletal-disorder risks associated with hazardous manual tasks; consult workers and other duty holders; provide information, training, instruction and supervision; and apply the hierarchy of controls.
• Model Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks (Safe Work Australia, 2021) — guidance on identifying tasks involving high or sudden force, repetitive or sustained force, repetitive movement, sustained or awkward posture, or vibration.
• Model Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks — guidance on consultation, risk assessment, control selection, implementation and review.
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities — guidance on workplace layout, access, floors, lighting and environmental conditions.
• AS/NZS 2210.3 Safety, protective and occupational footwear; AS/NZS 2161 Occupational protective gloves; AS/NZS 4602.1 High visibility safety garments; AS 1319 Safety signs; AS 2359 Powered industrial trucks; AS 4024.1 Safety of machinery; and AS 4991 Lifting devices.
• Model WHS laws and model Codes of Practice are guidance for adoption by jurisdictions; confirm the applicable legal requirements and approved codes with the relevant regulator before use.

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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