Improve drilling site safety & reduce operational risks with this SWMS. This Site Safety (Drilling) Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with drilling operations. It provides essential risk controls, hazard management strategies, and best practices to support compliance with Australian workplace safety standards while ensuring a safe drilling environment.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Planning & Risk Assessment
Site Inspection & Location Confirmation – Ensures site conditions are reviewed, work locations are confirmed with the client, and any necessary vegetation removal or sump positioning is identified before drilling begins.
Communication of Site Hazards – Requires all workers and subcontractors to be informed of potential workplace hazards, pedestrian-restricted zones, and other risks through site inductions.
Pre-Operational Vehicle & Equipment Inspections – Mandates daily pre-start checks to assess vehicle conditions, access routes, and ensure surfaces provide sufficient traction.
2️⃣ Site Access & Vehicle Movement
Traffic & Access Route Management – Requires designated vehicle entry and exit points, adherence to a traffic management plan, and a maximum site speed limit of 40km/h.
Collision & Overhead Hazard Prevention – Mandates pre-inspections of access routes to identify power lines, with clear guidance given to all workers and contractors during site induction.
Bogging & Rollover Prevention – Requires assessing and reinforcing soft ground with materials such as geofabric or steel mesh, and marking no-go zones with tape.
3️⃣ Drilling Operations & Manual Handling
Safe Handling of Drilling Equipment – Ensures mechanical lifting aids are used where possible, workers avoid overreaching, and heavy loads are team-lifted or reduced in weight.
Stockpiling & Material Handling Risks – Mandates stable ground conditions, use of competent operators for tipping trucks, and exclusion zones to prevent workers from being in close proximity to moving loads.
Ballast Loading & Tipping Hazards – Requires pre-inspections of tipping areas, controlled unloading procedures, and ensuring personnel remain at a safe distance during tipping.
4️⃣ Environmental & Worksite Conditions
Underground & Overhead Service Identification – Requires "Dial Before You Dig" checks, site plans, potholing, and manual excavation where necessary to avoid striking underground utilities.
Weather & Visibility Adjustments – Mandates stopping work during extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, wind, or reduced visibility, and reassessing risks before resuming.
Fire Prevention & Bushfire Risk – Requires regular clearing of debris from slasher decks, assessment of fire hazards before using spark-producing tools, and ensuring work complies with total fire ban restrictions.
5️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Measures – Ensures fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency contact information are readily available, with workers trained in emergency procedures.
Incident Reporting & Work Cessation – Mandates immediate reporting of injuries, near misses, or unexpected hazards, with operations stopping until risks are reassessed and controlled.
Remote Area Work Considerations – Requires the use of satellite phones for emergency communication and implementing a remote area plan covering contact procedures and emergency response.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Regulatory Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety laws and best practices for drilling site safety.
Hazard Identification & Risk Control – Covers essential safety measures to mitigate risks associated with drilling operations.
Emergency Preparedness – Establishes clear response procedures for equipment malfunctions, environmental hazards, and personnel safety incidents.
Fully Customisable Content – Easily adaptable for different drilling methods and site conditions.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Site Safety (Drilling) SWMS is essential for:
Geotechnical & Environmental Drilling Contractors
Civil & Infrastructure Project Teams
Mining & Exploration Drilling Operators
Any Workplace Conducting Drilling Activities
 
Additional Resources:
Included with the purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List to support your WHS documentation.
 
Ensure your team follows the correct procedures for safe drilling operations. Download the Site Safety (Drilling) SWMS today and help maintain a compliant and secure work environment.