Document No. Revision No.

Date Compiled: Date of Next Review:

Client : Project No:

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

1. A license for high risk work is not required to operate earth-moving plant; however, operators should hold a verification of competency or statement of attainment issued by a RTO and be
authorized to do so before they are to operate an excavator (Note: VOC is not required to operate mini-skid steer plant). Note: This restriction does not apply to a person who is authorized to
carry out maintenance or repairs to a tractor or an attachment.
2. Refer to SWP Excavator – Use as Crane for competency requirements and precautions to be followed when using earth-moving plant for load-shifting purposes.
3. Refer to SWP Backhoe and SWP Front end loader for competency requirements and precautions to be followed when using combination units.
Sequence Identified hazards Key processes to be followed Precautions / Ppe Required Planned Job Observations
Comments
1. Pre-start checks Roll-over protection Tractors must be fitted with an approved roll-over protective Wear eye and hand protection. Wear
Fuel and fluids structure (ROPS) unless specifically exempted by the gloves when handling rough or sharp
Tyres appropriate statutory authority. objects.
Tracks (tracked units) Check fuel, hydraulic oil, engine oil, transmission oil, coolant and Wear eye and hand protection.
Buckets Hydraulics battery.
Check tyre condition and pressures; remove any mud lumps
from treads.
Check condition and tension of tracks (refer to operator’s
manual correct sag).
Inspect for worn or missing teeth or worn cutting edges. Check
pins, bushes and connections for excessive wear.
Check hydraulic rams, hoses and connections for splits, leaks or
fractures.
2. Entry and exit Slipping and falls Steps and ladders should be of a non-slip type. Safe means of access must be
Hand holds must be provided to assist operator to maintain 3 provided and used for machines
points of contact at all times while mounting or dismounting when being transported or used.
tractor.
3. Operator position Seating Seat should be well-sprung and adjustable to allow operator to Maintain proper ergonomic principles
Controls maintain a comfortable operating position. when setting up seat for operating
Cabin (if fitted) All levers and gauges must be clearly identified, within easy position.
reach and be easily read. Preferred orientation should be such
 Document No. Revision No. Date Compiled: Date of Next Review:
SHE/PRO/4.4.6.30 1 September 2016 September 2017

that all needles are in vertical position during correct operating Adequate ventilation must be
conditions. provided.
Exhaust must be placed so as to not allow fumes to enter cabin
4. Controls Lights and alarms Test all lights, indicators, horn and reversing alarm. Test All lights and signals must operate.
Steering and brakes steering both ways. Check braking and park brake operation. Lock separated brake pedals together
Hydraulic controls Test all hydraulic operations before loading bucket. if travelling.
5. Travel Loss of control Do not travel at speeds which may cause control to be lost over Avoid sharp turns and obstacles.
Overturning bumps, etc. Items in front bucket must be secured
Carry bucket as close to machine as possible and racked back form movement when traveling.
for visibility. Avoid driving over obstacles, ditches, drains, etc. Slow down to turn.
which could affect control.
Avoid sharp turns and travel across slope on a steep incline.
6. Operation Buried services Ensure that all underground services have been identified and Have representative on site if unsure
Overturning Moving located before commencing to dig. of actual location. Use packing where
machinery, crush injury Avoid swinging loaded bucket with booms extended. ground surface is uneven or unable to
Over-stressing of parts Prevent entry to swing area of boom and bucket when support weight of machine. Keep
Dust, falling objects, excavating. swinging load close to machine.
noise Ensure that all persons are clear of boom before swinging. Wear high-visibility garment.
Persons working near machinery in operation or areas where NOTE: Wet materials will weigh more
traffic may be a hazard should wear high-visibility garments. per unit than dry material.
Do not load bucket in excess of working load limit. Wear head, eye and hearing and foot
Avoid stressing of parts when excavating rock, shale or other protection as necessary.
tight material. Appropriate protective equipment should be used
where hazards may be encountered during operation.
7. Repairs, etc., to Replacement of teeth Place bucket on firm, stable, level surface to carry out work. Ensure that bucket is stable and
buckets Ensure that engine is switched off and hydraulic pressure is cannot fall during work. Wear eye
relieved before replacing teeth on bucket attached to excavator. protection when washing or using
Clean excess mud and soil from bucket before replacing teeth. compressed air.
Ensure that replacement teeth are compatible with the bucket. Wear eye protection when using hand
Check that hand tools to remove damaged or worn teeth are in tools such as hammers, cold chisels,
good condition. etc
Ensure that replacement teeth are firmly locked in position
before digging.
8. Transport of buckets Moving/falling objects Ensure that buckets are carried in manner which will prevent Carry smaller buckets in in raked
them moving or falling during transport. Ensure that buckets are bucket.
secured down firmly if loaded loose on tray of truck. Secure loose items against
 Document No. Revision No. Date Compiled: Date of Next Review:
SHE/PRO/4.4.6.30 1 September 2016 September 2017

Use machine to load or unload buckets from truck or trailer. movement.

PRECAUTIONS: The following precautions are to be observed in areas where these procedures are carried out

Gloves Face Masks Eye Welding Mask Appropriate Hearing Protection Protective Clothing
Protection Footwear

SIGNOFF

The representatives of Rural Construction & Maintenance listed below have been involved in the creation and implementation of this Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) and will make sure
all work is carried out in accordance with this document. All workers listed below have the appropriate license/qualifications and/or experience required to perform each job task:

Worker on site Role (e.g. Worker, Supervisor) Signature Date

Signature and details of person responsible for site supervision of the work, inspecting and approving work areas, work methods, compliance with SWMS, protective measures, plant, equipment
and power tools for this site:

Signed:___________________________ Date:_________________________________________

Name:____________________________ Position:_____________________________________