Work method statement

A work method statement, sometimes referred to as a safe work method statement or a safe work procedure, is a part of a workplace safety plan. It is predominately used in construction to describe a document that gives specific instructions on how to safely perform a work related task, or operate a piece of plant or equipment. In many countries it is law to have work method statements, or similar, in place to advise employees and contractors on how to perform work related tasks safely.

The statement is generally used as part of a safety induction and then referred to as required throughout a workplace.

Procedure for use

A work method statement is prepared for each task on a particular worksite, the group of work method statements are then packaged and included in the overall 'Construction Safety Plan. This plan (or document) is typically submitted at the beginning of a project for approval by the client or their representative.

Contents

The work method statement encompasses the following:

1. purpose
2. scope
3. references
4. definitions
5. responsibilities
6. equipment
7. risk assessment
8. safety
9. procedure
10. attachments (if any)

Regulations and Compliance

Many countries enforce workplace safety by way of Government Acts and Regulations, some examples of the Authorities that regulate and enforce procedures with links to sample Work Method Statements are:

Australia

All states of Australia enforce the use of work method statements.

• WorkCover Authority of New South Wales, [1]
• WorkSafe Victoria, [2]

External links

• Work Method Statement Samples