Free safe work procedure template

• The MapTrack safe work procedure template contains 6 checks.
• A safe work procedure sets out the safest agreed way to do a specific task or operate a specific item of plant.
• It lists the step sequence, hazards at each step, controls, PPE required and the competency a worker needs.
• Controls must follow the hierarchy of controls, aiming to eliminate the hazard before relying on PPE.
• It differs from a SWMS, which is required only for high-risk construction work, and from a JSA analysis.
• Review the procedure when the task, plant or workforce changes, after any incident, and on a set cycle.

Learn more about compliance and inspections in MapTrack.

• Consistent method: every worker follows the same agreed safe sequence so the task is done the same way each time.
• Hierarchy of controls applied: the procedure documents controls in priority order so the strongest practical measure is used first.
• Training and induction tool: a clear written procedure speeds up onboarding and verifies that workers are competent before they start.
• Plant and equipment safety: a procedure tied to a specific machine captures guarding, isolation and PPE needs for that item.
• Due diligence evidence: a documented, reviewed procedure helps demonstrate that reasonably practicable steps were taken to manage risk.
• Incident reduction: clear hazard and control steps reduce the chance of errors, near misses and injuries during routine work.

• Procedure details: title, unique reference number, task or plant covered, version, date and review date.
• Scope and purpose: what task the procedure covers, where it applies and any tasks it does not cover.
• Competency and training: the licence, ticket, qualification or in-house training a worker needs before doing the task.
• PPE required: the specific personal protective equipment for the task such as eye, hearing, hand, foot and respiratory protection.
• Plant and equipment: the machine, tools and consumables used, including isolation points and pre-start check requirements.
• Step sequence: the task broken into numbered steps in the order they are carried out from setup to shutdown.
• Hazards at each step: the hazards present at every step such as moving parts, energy sources, dust, noise and manual handling.
• Control measures: the controls for each hazard set out using the hierarchy of controls, from elimination through to PPE.
• Approval and references: author, reviewer and approver sign-off, plus links to related risk assessments, SDS and manufacturer manuals.

1. Define the task and gather information about the plant, tools and environment.

   Pick one specific task or item of plant and set a clear scope so the procedure stays focused. Gather the manufacturer manual, any existing risk assessment, the safety data sheet for chemicals and input from the experienced workers who actually do the task day to day.

2. Break the task into a logical sequence of steps.

   Walk through the job from setup to shutdown and list the steps in the order they happen. Keep each step a single clear action so workers can follow it, and watch the task being done so you capture the real sequence rather than how you assume it is performed.

3. Identify the hazards present at each step.

   For every step ask what could cause harm at that point, such as moving or rotating parts, stored energy, hot surfaces, dust, noise, chemicals, manual handling or working at height. Record each hazard against the step it relates to so nothing is missed when controls are chosen.

4. Select controls for each hazard using the hierarchy of controls.

   Work down the hierarchy and choose the highest practical control first, starting with elimination, then substitution, isolation, engineering controls, administrative controls and finally personal protective equipment. Record the specific controls for each step rather than generic statements so workers know exactly what to do.

5. Document, approve, communicate and review the procedure.

   Write the controls, PPE and competency requirements into the procedure, then have a competent person review and approve it. Train the affected workers, make the procedure available at the point of work, and schedule a review whenever the task, plant or workforce changes or after any incident.

Practical answers about the form, record keeping and using MapTrack.

This form is a starting point. Check the current requirements that apply to your equipment, work and location. The form alone does not establish compliance.

• WHS Act 2011 - primary duty of care and the duty to provide information, training, instruction and supervision
• WHS Regulations 2011 - Chapter 3 (risk management) and Chapter 5 (plant)
• Hierarchy of control measures (elimination, substitution, isolation, engineering, administrative, PPE)
• Safe Work Australia Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks
• Safe Work Australia Code of Practice: Managing the risks of plant in the workplace

• Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace (Safe Work Australia)
• Model WHS Regulations (Safe Work Australia)
• Model Work Health and Safety Act (Safe Work Australia)

MapTrack publishes this template. The linked authorities publish their own guidance; they haven't endorsed this form.

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