Product Overview

This Tractors Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a site-ready safety document designed to identify hazards, assess risks and implement controls for tractor operations on Australian worksites. It provides a comprehensive approach to tractor safety management and WHS compliance, covering set-up, operation, attachments and maintenance activities.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Pre-start inspection of tractors, including tyres, brakes, steering, guards and safety devices
• Safe mounting, dismounting and use of steps, handholds and three-point contact
• Selection and use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for tractor operations
• Operation of tractors on flat, sloping and uneven ground to minimise rollover risk
• Management of rollover risks, including use of ROPS (roll-over protective structures) and seatbelts
• Safe use of power take-off (PTO) shafts, guards and rotating equipment
• Attachment, adjustment and removal of implements and three-point linkage equipment
• Use of front-end loaders, forks and lifting attachments within rated capacities
• Traffic management when operating tractors near workers, vehicles and public areas
• Working around overhead and underground services, including powerlines and buried utilities
• Refuelling procedures, spill management and fire prevention controls
• Noise, vibration and dust exposure controls for operators and nearby workers
• Maintenance, cleaning, isolation and lock-out of tractors and attachments
• Emergency response procedures for rollovers, collisions, mechanical failures and injuries

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for farmers, agricultural contractors, civil and construction contractors, grounds maintenance crews, local councils and site supervisors responsible for tractor operations.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on controlling risks associated with tractors and attachments used as plant.
• Traffic Management in Workplaces (where applicable state/territory guidance): Safe movement of mobile plant and vehicles on worksites.
• Safe Work Australia – Guide to Managing Risks in Agriculture: Industry-specific guidance for safe tractor and farm machinery operation.
• Safe Work Australia – General Guide for Workplace Traffic Management: Principles for separating people and mobile plant, including tractors.
• AS 1636 (series) Tractors – Roll-over protective structures (ROPS): Requirements for rollover protection on wheeled agricultural tractors.
• AS 2153 Tractors and machinery for agriculture and forestry – Technical means for ensuring safety: Safety principles for agricultural and forestry machinery.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017