Ensure safe and controlled rigging operations with this Rigging SWMS. This document outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with rigging activities. 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 Site Setup & Hazard Management
Unforeseen Hazards & Public Safety – Barricades, exit and emergency routes, and safety equipment must be in place to protect personnel and the public. Materials handling procedures must be followed.
Secure Site Setup – All work areas must be properly marked, and access to unauthorized personnel must be restricted to prevent injuries.
Pre-Start Checks – All lifting chains and slings must be inspected for wear, stretching, deformation, or other damage before use. Safe Working Loads (SWL) must be clearly displayed.
2️⃣ Lifting & Rigging Equipment Inspection
Certification & Condition Checks – Lifting chains must be certified high-tensile (tagged) and labelled with their SWL. Slings must be free from snags, cuts, excessive wear, or heat damage.
Pre-Use Inspection – All lifting equipment must be checked to ensure it meets safety standards and is appropriate for the task. Any defective equipment must be removed from service.
Equipment Testing & Tagging – Chains, slings, and lifting gear must be regularly tested and tagged to confirm compliance with safety regulations.
3️⃣ Lifting Operations & Safety Measures
Overhead & Underground Services – Proximity to overhead utilities, wires, and pipes must be identified and monitored at all times.
Controlled Lifting Methods – All loads must be secured by a qualified dogger or rigger using appropriate lifting techniques.
Restricted Access – Only essential personnel are allowed in the rigging area. Work zones must be barricaded to prevent unauthorized access.
4️⃣ Communication & Coordination
Pre-Operational Briefing – All rigging procedures must be explained before work begins, ensuring all workers understand the processes and safety requirements.
Hand & Whistle Signals – Hand signals and whistles must be used for communication, with two-way radios available if required. Radio batteries must be fully charged, and a radio check must be conducted before work begins.
Mobile Phone Restrictions – The use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited during rigging, dogging, and lifting operations to prevent distractions.
5️⃣ Personnel & Site Safety
Unauthorised Personnel Access – Erection and maintenance of barricades, warning signs, and lights must be implemented to prevent unauthorised access. Security patrols and public notices should be used when necessary.
Falling Object Hazards – All lifting equipment must be in good working order and tagged current. Correct slinging techniques must be followed at all times to prevent falling object risks.
Lifting Loose Items – Loads containing loose items must be secured using properly constructed boxes with a Safe Working Load (SWL) rating. 
6️⃣ Safe Load Handling & Storage
Slinging Loads – Proper slinging techniques must be followed at all times. All loads must be checked for stability before lifting.
Pre-Cast Concrete Handling – Safety slings must be used for pre-cast concrete, and safety pins must be inserted in brick cage tines. Synthetic fibre sandbags must not be lifted by the handles; a brick cage or bin must be used.
Storage & Stacking – All lifted materials, such as steel bars, bricks, and timber, must be securely wrapped or strapped before lifting. Stacks must be neatly arranged to prevent collapse.
7️⃣ Environmental Changes & Hazard Reassessment
Site Condition Changes – Work must cease immediately if environmental conditions change or new hazards emerge. Supervisors must reassess risks before work resumes.
SWMS Updates & Communication – Any changes to the SWMS must be communicated to all workers before work continues. Revisions must be signed off by the supervisor.
Wind Conditions – Lifting operations should not proceed if wind speeds exceed 25 km/h, subject to worksite conditions and management discretion.
8️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Measures – Workers must be aware of the location and use of first aid kits and firefighting equipment. Emergency procedures must be communicated.
Incident Reporting & Work Cessation – Any injury, near-miss, or hazard must be reported immediately. Work must stop until risks are reassessed and controlled.
Emergency Procedures Activation – In the event of a major incident, emergency protocols must be followed, including contacting emergency services and securing the site.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Supports Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety standards for rigging and lifting operations.
Structured Risk Management – Outlines hazard identification, control measures, and safety protocols for rigging activities.
Emergency Readiness – Establishes clear procedures for incident response and emergency situations.
Fully Customisable – Can be tailored to different rigging tasks, lifting operations, and site-specific requirements.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Rigging SWMS is essential for:
Construction & Engineering Teams
Crane & Rigging Contractors
Heavy Lifting & Logistics Companies
Industrial & Infrastructure Projects
 
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 rigging operations. Download the Rigging SWMS today and implement best-practice risk management on your worksite.