Restraint and Fall Arrest Equipment Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)  SWMS Overview 

The Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for Restraint and Fall Arrest Equipment outlines the procedures and safety measures for using personal fall protection systems when working at heights on residential, commercial, and industrial sites in Australia. It aligns with Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation, the Managing the Risk of Falls Code of Practice, and relevant Australian Standards (e.g. AS/NZS 1891 series).

Key focus areas include conducting a site-specific risk assessment to determine suitable fall protection methods, selecting appropriate restraint or fall arrest systems, and ensuring all equipment is inspected, certified, and fit for purpose. It details correct harness fitting, lanyard and anchor point selection, and the safe use of inertia reels and shock-absorbing devices.

This SWMS also emphasises the importance of maintaining exclusion zones beneath work areas, ensuring workers are trained and competent in fall protection, and implementing clear rescue plans for suspended workers. Regular pre-use and periodic inspections of equipment, proper storage, and record-keeping requirements are also addressed to maintain compliance.

By following this SWMS, workers can significantly reduce the risk of falls from height, suspension trauma, and equipment failure. It ensures tasks are carried out safely, efficiently, and in accordance with WHS obligations, protecting both workers and the worksite.

Suitable for electrotechnology trades including: Compliant in all Australian States and New Zealand What’s Included  This ready-to-use SWMS package features: 

• Understanding NECA SWMS 
• JSA SWMS Cover Sheet 
• Restraint and Fall Arrest Equipment SWMS – Style A
• Restraint and Fall Arrest Equipment SWMS – Style B 
• SWMS Sign off Sheet 

Flexible SWMS Styles  To meet unique project and contractor needs, we’ve developed two consistent SWMS styles: 

• Style A (Blue): A simple, streamlined version inspired by the Safe Work Australia template, perfect for workers who prefer clear, straightforward safety documents. 

• Style B (Tan): A detailed format designed to meet strict compliance checklists, ideal for principal contractors requiring enhanced documentation. 

Both styles maintain the same core safety content, ensuring consistency across projects. Workers inducted and trained in one style can seamlessly adapt to the other, streamlining document control and significantly reducing admin time and stress during the SWMS submission process.  Why Choose NECA SWMS?   NECA SWMS solutions are industry-specific, written by professionals with real-world experience, and based on Standards, Codes of Practice, and Legislation. These templates:  

• Simplify compliance with principal contractor requirements.  

• Save admin time with editable MS Word templates ready for instant download.  

• Provide clear, user-friendly documents to reduce frustration in the workplace.  

Completed SWMS templates. Simply insert your company logo, business details, and site details, and they’re ready to send off to your client. Templates can be amended to suit specific needs, saving valuable time and resources while maintaining compliance.   With a NECA SWMS, you can ensure robust safety practices, better version control, and a stress-free submission process.