Free Compliance Tool

Is Your SWMS Actually Compliant?

A Safe Work Method Statement isn't just paperwork - it's a legal requirement for high-risk construction work in Australia. But not all SWMS documents actually meet compliance standards.

Check yours in under 3 minutes - no signup required.

Instant compliance score
Specific gaps identified
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SWMS Compliance Checker

Free assessment tool

This tool assesses whether your Safe Work Method Statement meets the requirements under Australian Work Health and Safety Regulations.

Answer 16 quick questions about your current SWMS.

We'll check your documentation against:

  • Legal content requirements
  • Signature and consultation rules
  • Accessibility standards
  • Review and maintenance practices

Your answers are processed in your browser and are not saved to our servers.

Takes about 3 minutes

What Makes a SWMS Compliant?

Under Australian WHS Regulations, a Safe Work Method Statement must meet specific requirements to be legally valid. Many tradies use SWMS templates that look official but don't actually satisfy these requirements.

The Legal Requirements

A compliant SWMS must:

1

Identify the high-risk construction work

Not just "construction work" but the specific category from the 18 types of high-risk work defined in WHS Regulations.

2

List specific hazards and risks

Generic hazard lists copied from templates don't cut it. Your SWMS must identify hazards specific to this job, this site, and this crew.

3

Specify concrete control measures

"Use appropriate PPE" isn't a control measure. Your SWMS needs to specify exactly what controls will be used and how they'll be implemented.

4

Be signed before work starts

Both the PCBU (or their representative) and every worker performing the high-risk work must sign before commencing. Signatures collected afterwards don't count.

5

Be prepared with worker consultation

The workers doing the job must be consulted when preparing the SWMS. Documents created entirely by office staff may not meet this requirement.

6

Be accessible at the worksite

The SWMS must be kept where the work is happening and be readily accessible to workers and inspectors.

Common Compliance Mistakes

The most common issues we see:

  • Template SWMS not customised - Using a downloaded template without adding site-specific details
  • Missing signatures - Especially worker signatures before starting
  • Vague control measures - Statements like "be careful" or "use correct equipment"
  • Wrong HRCW category - Generic "construction" instead of the specific high-risk work type
  • Not accessible on site - SWMS kept in office or supervisor's vehicle

What Happens If Your SWMS Isn't Compliant?

Non-compliance with SWMS requirements can result in:

  • Work stoppage - Inspectors can halt work until a compliant SWMS exists
  • Infringement notices - On-the-spot fines for SWMS failures
  • Prosecution - Serious breaches can result in court action
  • Insurance issues - Non-compliant documentation may affect claims
  • Principal contractor problems - You may be removed from sites

How makeswms.com Helps

Our SWMS Generator creates compliant documents that cover all requirements - pre-filled hazards and controls for 50+ trades, all 18 high-risk work categories, digital signature capture, and state-specific compliance.

Create a Compliant SWMS
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about SWMS compliance and this assessment tool

This tool checks your SWMS against the requirements in Australian WHS Regulations. It's designed to identify common compliance gaps but isn't a substitute for professional legal advice. If you're unsure about your obligations, consult your state WHS regulator or a safety professional.
No. Your answers are processed in your browser to generate your score and are not saved to our servers.
A low score indicates gaps that should be addressed. Whether a specific SWMS meets legal requirements depends on the circumstances. The tool identifies potential issues - it's then your responsibility to address them.
The core SWMS requirements are consistent across Australian states and territories under harmonised WHS laws. Some states have additional requirements - we recommend checking with your state regulator for specific obligations.
WHS Regulations require review when control measures are revised, circumstances change, or after a notifiable incident. Best practice is to review before each new job or when site conditions change significantly.
A SWMS (Safe Work Method Statement) is specifically required for high-risk construction work under WHS law. A JSA (Job Safety Analysis) is a general risk assessment tool not mandated by legislation. For high-risk construction work, you need a SWMS - a JSA alone isn't sufficient. Our SWMS generator creates compliant documents that satisfy the legal requirements.

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