Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the safety requirements and control measures for the use of trolleys, wheelbarrows and mechanical handling aids to reduce manual handling risks and prevent injury. It is a comprehensive, pre-written document that addresses multiple aspects of trolley and mechanical handling safety to support WHS compliance on Australian worksites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Applying and checking brakes on trolleys, dollies and similar mobile handling equipment to prevent uncontrolled movement
• Safe operation of bulk handling systems to minimise manual lifting and prevent overloading or spillage
• Carrying and transporting loaded barrows and trolleys, including load stability, route selection and housekeeping
• Selection and safe use of hand trolleys for moving loads while reducing strain on the back, shoulders and arms
• Use of load skates for moving heavy plant, machinery or equipment in confined or restricted spaces
• Manual handling lifts, including correct lifting techniques, team lifting and use of mechanical aids to minimise musculoskeletal disorders
• Operation of materials duct lifters for raising and lowering materials safely at height or into elevated positions
• Moving loads by hand using pinch bars, including leverage techniques and controls to prevent crush and pinch injuries
• Relocating heavy containers using pulley systems, including anchoring, line-of-fire controls and exclusion zones
• Use of specialised pool table trolleys and similar equipment for moving delicate or high-mass items without damage or injury
• Pulling and pushing heavily loaded pallet trucks, with emphasis on gradient control, body positioning and surface conditions
• Pulling loaded hand trucks, including safe grip, speed control and visibility around corners and through doorways
• General safe use of mobile equipment such as stock trolleys, platform trolleys and dollies in warehouses and on construction sites
• Selection and use of mechanical aids where appropriate to reduce manual exertion and repetitive strain
• Pre-use inspection, maintenance and tagging of trolleys, wheelbarrows and mechanical handling aids to ensure they remain fit for purpose

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for warehouse and logistics workers, construction and maintenance crews, retail and stock handling staff, removalists, facility managers and site supervisors responsible for manual and mechanical materials handling.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Model Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks – guidance on identifying, assessing and controlling risks from manual handling
• Model Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – framework for risk management processes in the workplace
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities – requirements for safe access, egress and movement areas for trolleys and handling aids
• AS 4024 Safety of Machinery (series) – principles for the safe design and use of machinery and mechanical aids
• AS 2359 Powered Industrial Trucks (series) – relevant guidance where pallet trucks and similar handling aids interface with powered industrial equipment
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017