Important: This SWMS template is provided as a starting point only. It must be reviewed and customised to reflect the specific conditions, hazards, and controls for your workplace and task. The PCBU remains responsible for ensuring the SWMS is suitable for the specific work. This template does not constitute legal advice. Refer to your state or territory WHS regulator for compliance requirements.
Electrical Work

General Electrical Installation — Safe Work Method Statement

Safe Work Method Statement for general electrical installation work including wiring, fitting of electrical equipment, connection to switchboards and testing. Work to be performed by a licensed electrician in accordance with AS/NZS 3000 and state electrical safety legislation.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Safety Boots (Electrical Hazard Rated)Safety GlassesInsulated Gloves (Class 00 or 0 for low voltage)Hard HatHigh Visibility VestFlame-Resistant Clothing (when arc flash risk)

High Risk Construction Work Types

  • On or adjacent to an energised electrical installation or service

Risk Assessment

1.Isolation, lockout/tagout and verification

Hazard / RiskInitial RiskControl MeasuresResidual RiskResponsibility
Electric shock from contact with energised circuitsCatastrophicIsolate circuit at switchboard. Lock and tag isolation point (LOTO). Test with approved voltage tester before commencing work — test, then test again. Only licensed electrician to isolate. Do not rely on verbal confirmation of isolation.LowLicensed Electrician
Inadvertent re-energisation by another partyCatastrophicPersonal lockout padlock applied by each worker. Do not remove another worker's lock. Out of service tag displayed. Notify site supervisor of isolation. Record isolation in permit system if applicable.LowLicensed Electrician / Site Supervisor

2.Cable installation and routing

Hazard / RiskInitial RiskControl MeasuresResidual RiskResponsibility
Cable damage from mechanical impact causing shock or fireHighRoute cables through conduit or protected pathway where exposed to mechanical damage. Use appropriate cable type for environment (e.g. UV-rated, armoured). Minimum bend radius maintained. Cable entries sealed after installation.LowLicensed Electrician
Contact with existing live circuits during drilling or cuttingCatastrophicUse cable and pipe locator before drilling into walls or ceilings. Identify all circuits in work area. Isolate all circuits in area where location is uncertain.LowLicensed Electrician

3.Connection and termination work

Hazard / RiskInitial RiskControl MeasuresResidual RiskResponsibility
Incorrect wiring causing equipment failure or fireHighWiring to comply with AS/NZS 3000. Check polarity before energising. Visual inspection of all terminations. Circuit continuity test performed.LowLicensed Electrician

4.Testing, commissioning and re-energisation

Hazard / RiskInitial RiskControl MeasuresResidual RiskResponsibility
Arc flash or short circuit on re-energisationHighConfirm all personnel clear before energising. Remove all tools and materials from switchboard. Wear arc flash PPE when opening live switchboard. Stand to the side of switchboard door when energising.LowLicensed Electrician
Certificate of Electrical Safety not issuedModerateLicensed electrician to issue Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES) for all new or altered electrical work as required by state legislation. Copy retained on site and provided to owner.LowLicensed Electrician

Relevant Codes of Practice

Worker Acknowledgement

By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to comply with this Safe Work Method Statement.

Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________
Name: ___________________Date: ___________________
Signature: ___________________________

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