Product Overview

This Sailing Safety SWMS is a site-ready Safe Work Method Statement designed to identify hazards, implement controls, and keep crew and contractors safe during sailing operations. It is a comprehensive document covering multiple aspects of Sailing Safety, including spinnaker handling, sail trim, vessel movement, and on-water WHS compliance for marine-based work activities.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe handling, hoisting, trimming, and dousing of asymmetrical spinnakers in varying wind and sea conditions
• Management of sheet loads, halyards, and control lines to minimise the risk of entanglement, impact, or crush injuries
• Procedures for safe crew positioning during sail changes, gybes, and tacks to prevent falls, trips, and overboard incidents
• Use of personal flotation devices (PFDs), harnesses, and other personal protective equipment during sailing operations
• Safe movement around the vessel, including on deck, foredeck, cockpit, and companionway areas
• Manual handling techniques for lifting, flaking, and stowing sails, lines, and associated sailing equipment
• Communication protocols between skipper, crew, and support vessels during manoeuvres and emergency situations
• Weather assessment, route planning, and decision-making to avoid hazardous sea states and high-risk sailing conditions
• Emergency response procedures for man overboard, collision, capsize, and equipment failure scenarios
• Operation of winches, clutches, and other deck hardware to prevent hand injuries and uncontrolled line release
• Use of navigation lights, sound signals, and lookout procedures to maintain safe separation from other vessels
• Pre-start safety briefings, induction of new crew, and verification of competencies before commencing sailing activities

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for commercial sailing operators, marine contractors, sailing schools, event and race organisers, and site supervisors responsible for managing sailing-related work activities.

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
• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Guidance on providing safe access, amenities, and emergency planning for workers, including on-water operations where reasonably practicable
• How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying sailing hazards, assessing risks, and implementing appropriate control measures
• Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Applicable to winches, lifting devices, and mechanical equipment used on or around vessels
• First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice: Requirements for first aid equipment, trained personnel, and response procedures for marine-based work
• Safe Work Australia – Guide for Managing the Risks of Working in Heat: Relevant for prolonged sailing and deck work in hot and exposed conditions
• AS 4758 Personal Flotation Devices: Australian Standard for selection and use of lifejackets and PFDs for workers and crew