Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the step-by-step safety controls for working in extreme temperatures and hazardous weather to protect workers from heat, cold and rapidly changing conditions. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of outdoor work, helping you maintain strong WHS compliance and reduce weather-related risks across your site.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Planning and performing outdoor work during harsh weather conditions, including storms, high winds and heavy rain
• Reviewing and interpreting weather forecasts and warnings prior to work beginning each day
• Identifying and managing weather-related risks associated with outdoor work on Australian worksites
• Adjusting work schedules and methods to safely work amidst sudden or forecast weather changes
• Working safely in hot and cold environmental conditions, including shaded rest areas and work rotation
• Managing work involving exposure to extreme heat or cold, including heat stress and hypothermia controls
• Working in adverse temperature conditions such as heatwaves, frosts and cold fronts
• Working in exposure to the elements, including sun, rain, wind, dust and UV radiation
• Safe systems of work for prolonged working in extreme temperatures, including acclimatisation procedures
• Selection and use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for hot, cold and wet weather
• Hydration, rest breaks and fatigue management for workers in extreme temperature environments
• Emergency response procedures for heat stress, heat stroke, dehydration, hypothermia and cold-related illness
• Communication protocols and stop-work triggers when hazardous weather or temperature extremes are present

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for construction and civil contractors, utilities and maintenance crews, landscaping and grounds staff, mining and resources personnel, and site supervisors responsible for workers exposed to extreme temperatures and hazardous weather conditions.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Guidance on providing a safe work environment, including thermal comfort and protection from the elements.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Risk of Heat Stress in the Workplace (Guidance Material): Principles for identifying and controlling heat-related risks.
• Safe Work Australia – Guide for Managing the Risk of Fatigue at Work: Relevant to managing fatigue from working in extreme temperatures.
• Safe Work Australia – First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice: Requirements for first aid arrangements for heat and cold-related illnesses.
• AS/NZS 4501 Occupational protective clothing: Requirements for protective clothing suitable for hot and cold environments.
• AS/NZS 4399 Sun protective clothing – Evaluation and classification: Guidance on clothing to minimise UV exposure during outdoor work.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017