Ensure safe and efficient operations when picking up and unloading skip bins with this Picking Up and Unloading of Skip Bins SWMS. This document outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with loading, transporting, and unloading skip bins. It provides essential risk controls, hazard management strategies, and best practices to support compliance with Australian workplace safety standards while maintaining a secure work environment.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Awareness & Hazard Identification
Unaware of Hazards – All employees must receive information about work area hazards before starting. Training must be recorded, and ongoing hazard communication must be maintained throughout the job.
Pedestrian Restricted Areas – Operators must be briefed on pedestrian-restricted zones and site access points before commencing work.
Visual Inspection & Hazard Reporting – Workers must visually inspect the site and report any new hazards that arise during the operation.
2️⃣ Pre-Operation Inspection of Equipment
Failure to Inspect Equipment – Operators must conduct a pre-start inspection of all plant and equipment before use.
Equipment Maintenance & Safety Features – All equipment must be maintained according to manufacturer specifications, and emergency stop buttons and ON/OFF switches must be tested before use.
Fault Reporting & Repair – Any equipment faults must be reported immediately, and the equipment must not be used until repairs are completed.
3️⃣ Loading Skip Bins onto Trucks
Forklift Use for Loading – Forklifts must be operated at a slow speed, ensuring ground workers and clients are well clear of the work area. Reverse beepers and flashing lights must be functional.
Crane Operations for Loading – The crane operator must be licensed and trained, with all loads checked for weight and balance before lifting. No one must stand beneath a loaded boom.
Ground Conditions & Stabilisation – The truck’s park brake must be applied, and all stabilisers must be extended fully before loading.
4️⃣ Transporting Bins
Vehicle Collisions & Load Movement – Drivers must be licensed and obey all traffic signage. Loads must be checked before departure and secured with properly rated straps.
Weather & Road Conditions – Speed must be adjusted according to weather conditions, and drivers must follow site and terrain-specific rules.
Safe Parking & Communication – Vehicles must be parked in designated areas, and mobile phones must not be used while driving.
5️⃣ Unloading Skip Bins at Sites
Forklift Use for Unloading – Forklifts must be operated at a walking speed, and site personnel must remain clear of the work area. Operators must sound the horn at potential danger spots.
Truck-Mounted Crane Unloading – The area must be cleared of personnel, and lifting operations must follow manufacturer guidelines. Load weights must be verified before lifting.
Vehicle Spotter for Unloading – A vehicle spotter must be used for reversing and unloading operations to prevent collisions.
6️⃣ Hook Bin Collection & Unloading
Uneven Ground & Load Stability – Bins must only be raised or lowered on level ground, and drivers must ensure the bin is evenly loaded before attachment.
Vehicle Isolation During Maintenance – Trucks must be switched off and isolated before repairs or cleaning.
Lifting Equipment Inspections – All lifting gear must be inspected before use and certified as compliant.
7️⃣ Site-Specific Safety & Emergency Preparedness
Ongoing Safety Inspections – Site managers must conduct routine inspections to ensure compliance with this SWMS. Any identified non-conformances must be corrected immediately.
Emergency Procedures for Equipment Failure – If an unsafe situation occurs, work must stop immediately, and the incident must be reported to the supervisor.
First Aid & Fire Safety – Workers must be aware of the location of first aid kits and fire-fighting equipment, and emergency contact numbers must be available.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Supports Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety standards for skip bin operations.
Structured Risk Management – Identifies hazards, implements control measures, and provides step-by-step safety guidelines.
Emergency Readiness – Establishes clear procedures for incident response, equipment malfunctions, and traffic management.
Fully Customisable – Can be tailored to specific skip bin collection and unloading environments.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Picking Up and Unloading of Skip Bins SWMS is essential for:
Waste Management & Recycling Companies
Construction & Demolition Contractors
Transport & Logistics Operators
Local Councils & Public Works Departments
 
Additional Resources:
Included with your purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List to support your WHS documentation.
 
Ensure safe and compliant skip bin handling. Download the Picking Up and Unloading of Skip Bins SWMS today and implement best-practice risk management for your operations.