Working at Height SWMS Template
This pre-written Working at Height SWMS template gives you a compliant, ready-to-use document you can put to work today. Supplied as an instant download in fully editable Microsoft Word format, it sets out the hazards, risks and control measures typically associated with working at height — so you're not starting from a blank page.
Is a SWMS Required for Working at Height?
Working at height is classified as High Risk Construction Work (HRCW) under Schedule 3 of the Model Work Health and Safety Regulations as it involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres. That means before any work at height begins, a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a legal requirement — not optional, not just best practice.
What This SWMS Covers:
- Site Induction
- PPE
- Services / Utilities
- Assess work area access and weather conditions
- Preparation of work area
- Working below overhead work
- Use of ladders
- Fall arrest systems on roofs
- Use of scaffold
- Use of Elevated Work Platforms (EWP)
- Leaving the work area
What's Included:
- High Risk Construction Work (HRCW) selection table
- Risk assessment guidelines and risk rating calculator
- Step by step procedures
- Possible hazards
- Safety controls
- Safety responsibilities
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Plant and equipment
- Legislation, regulations, codes and standards
- Worker signoff
References and Standards:
- Work Health and Safety Act
- Work Health and Safety Regulations
- COP Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces
- COP How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks
- COP Managing the Work Environment and Facilities
- COP Elevating Work Platforms
- AS 1892.5:2020 - Portable ladders Selection, safe use and care
- AS/NZS 1418.10:2025 - Cranes, hoists and winches Mobile elevating work platforms
- AS/NZS 1576:2019 - Scaffolding General requirements
- AS/NZS 4994.1:2023 - Temporary edge protection General requirements
- AS/NZS 1891.4:2025 - Personal equipment for work at height Selection, use & maintenance
COP = Safe Work Australia Code of Practice
Features:
- Instant download link sent to your email
- User friendly, fully editable Microsoft Word format
- Add your company details and use in your business today
- Will save you countless hours in research and development
- Free phone and email support if you need it
Who Is This SWMS For?
This SWMS is built for tradespeople and businesses carrying out any work at height — framework, roofing, A/C servicing, scaffolding, or any task above two metres — whether you're a sole trader or running multiple crews.
Why These SWMS Over the Alternatives?
vs. Writing them yourself
A properly written SWMS needs to identify the correct high-risk construction work category, list realistic hazards and controls, include a risk matrix, specify PPE requirements, and align with the WHS Act, Regulations and relevant Codes of Practice. That's hours of research most businesses don't have time for. This one is already written — you're customising by adding business and site-specific information, not creating it from scratch.
vs. Hiring a consultant to write them
A WHS consultant charging to produce bespoke SWMS typically bills $200–$500+ per document. This one costs $69.95.
vs. Free or AI templates
Free templates and AI-generated documents can look the part without being fit for purpose. Without the WHS knowledge to check what's in front of you, errors can slip through unnoticed — and most AI tools openly say their output needs checking for accuracy. The question is whether you have the expertise to know what "accurate" looks like. If not, that's where the real risk sits.
Need More Than One SWMS?
If you need SWMS for more than one task, browse our SWMS Industry Packs to find the discounted bundle that matches your trade, or browse our full range of SWMS Templates.
If you are multi-trade or need more than a handful of SWMS but not a full SWMS Industry Pack, we can put together a custom pack at a discounted price based on the number of SWMS you need. Email us for a custom quote — or call 1800 304 336 and we'll sort it out with you directly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use this SWMS template on more than one job? Yes. Once purchased, you can use and adapt this SWMS across unlimited projects and sites for your business — there's no per-project fee or subscription.
How do I customise this SWMS for my business? Add your company details and adjust the control measures to reflect your specific site conditions where needed. It's supplied in fully editable Microsoft Word format, so no special software is required.
Is a SWMS legally required for working at height? Yes. Working at height is classified as High Risk Construction Work (HRCW) under Schedule 3 of the Model Work Health and Safety Regulations as it involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres. That means before any work at height begins, a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a legal requirement — not optional, not just best practice.