SWMS and safety docs for tree workers
Do tree workers need a SWMS?
It depends on the job. Pruning or removing a tree on its own is not listed as construction work, so the SWMS rule may not apply. Clearing trees to get a site ready for building is construction work, and if that job has a fall of more than 2 metres, live power lines nearby, a road in use next to it or moving plant, it is high risk construction work and needs a SWMS before it starts. Builders and principal contractors may ask you for one either way.
Ready to Go SWMS: tree pruning and removal (ground-based)
Written for tree workers, with the work steps, hazards, controls and worker sign-on done. Editable Word and PDF. $79 inc GST, sent the same business day once it's paid.
High risk work that comes up for tree workers
When tree work is part of construction work, such as clearing a building site, these are the high risk construction work categories that come up most. If a job includes any of them, a SWMS is needed before the work starts.
| High risk construction work | Where it comes up |
|---|---|
| Falls of more than 2 metres Work that involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres. | Climbing or working from an EWP more than 2 metres up. |
| Energised electrical installations Work that is carried out on or near energised electrical installations or services. | Trees growing near overhead power lines. |
| Next to roads or other traffic Work that is carried out on, in or adjacent to a road, railway, shipping lane or other traffic corridor that is in use by traffic other than pedestrians. | Street and verge trees next to a road in use. |
| Powered mobile plant moving around Work that is carried out in an area at a workplace in which there is any movement of powered mobile plant. | Site clearing where excavators, loaders and trucks move around. |
What we would put in your Trade Pack
The Trade Pack is 5 SWMS covering the jobs you do most: $299 Ready to Go, or $795 Fully Custom, including GST. For tree workers, these five are a common starting point. Swap any of them for the work you do most.
- Pruning and removal from the ground
- Chainsaw and pole saw work
- Wood chippers and stump grinders
- Trees near overhead power lines
- Street and verge trees next to traffic
Other docs tree workers ask for
- SOPs for chainsaw, chipper and stump grinder pre-starts
- An induction pack for ground crew
- A WHS Starter Kit with a risk register
Worth knowing
Safe Work Australia says tree trimming or removal work should not be done from ladders. Climbing, rigging and EWP work each need their own controls, so they are written up separately from ground-based work.
Prices
| Doc | Ready to Go | Fully Custom |
|---|---|---|
| Single SWMS: One high risk task or job | $79 | $195 |
| Trade Pack: 5 SWMS covering the jobs you do most | $299 | $795 |
| WHS Starter Kit: Safety policy, risk register, incident forms, toolbox talk template | $299 | $895 |
| Single SOP: One process, step by step | $59 | $95 |
| SOP Manual: Up to 10 SOPs: quoting, onboarding, equipment checks and more | $449 | $995 |
| Induction Pack: Induction checklist, sign-off sheet and site rules | $59 | $195 |
| Staff Handbook: Policies, expectations and the way you do things | $359 | $495 |
| Safety Checklist Pack: Site inspection, vehicle and plant pre-start and end-of-day pack-up checklists | $49 | $195 |
| Onsite Safety Audit: We look at how the work is done, check it against your paperwork and give you a written list of what to fix | Not offered | $495 |
Prices include GST.
Other trades
Builders and carpenters, Electricians, Plumbers and gasfitters, Painters, Landscapers, Roofers, Concreters, Fencers, Tilers, Air-con and refrigeration techs, Plasterers, Cleaning businesses