Product Overview

This Slasher Mower Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the step-by-step safety controls and procedures required to operate slasher mowers safely on Australian worksites, helping you achieve WHS compliance and reduce incident risk. It is a comprehensive, ready-to-use document that covers multiple aspects of slasher mower operation, from pre-start checks through to shutdown and maintenance.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe operation and control of slasher mowers in open paddocks, roadside areas, and construction sites
• Selection and inspection of tractors, slashers, guards, PTO shafts, and associated mowing equipment prior to use
• Pre-start checks on blades, belts, guards, hydraulic hoses, tyres, and safety devices to ensure equipment is fit for purpose
• Engaging and disengaging the power take-off (PTO) and slasher drive system in a controlled and safe manner
• Managing risks from flying debris, projectiles, and thrown objects in public areas and active work zones
• Working around overhead and underground services, including powerlines, utilities, and hidden obstacles
• Controlling risks when operating on uneven ground, slopes, embankments, and soft or boggy terrain
• Implementing traffic and pedestrian management when mowing near roads, driveways, and shared access ways
• Manual handling and safe attachment, adjustment, and removal of the slasher unit from tractors or towing vehicles
• Noise, vibration, dust, and vegetation management to minimise impact on workers, neighbours, and the environment
• Refuelling, handling of oils and lubricants, and control of fire risks during hot, dry, or high-risk weather conditions
• Lock-out, tag-out, and isolation procedures for cleaning, clearing blockages, and maintenance of blades and decks
• Emergency procedures for equipment failure, entanglement, struck-by incidents, and first aid response on site

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for agricultural and civil contractors, grounds maintenance crews, local councils, landscaping businesses, and site supervisors overseeing slasher mower operations.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on the safe use, inspection, and maintenance of plant such as tractors and slasher mowers
• Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice: Controls for working on or around elevated plant and accessing machinery for inspection and maintenance
• Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work Code of Practice: Requirements for controlling noise exposure from powered mowing equipment
• Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice: Risk controls for lifting, attaching, and handling heavy mower components
• Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination Code of Practice: Ensuring workers and contractors are consulted on slasher mower safety procedures
• AS 4024 Safety of Machinery (series): Principles for guarding, emergency stops, and safe design of machinery where applicable to plant in use
• AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites: Requirements where electrical equipment is used in support of mowing operations on construction sites
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017