In today’s construction industry, the integration of digital solutions is fundamentally changing operational management. One aspect of construction becoming increasingly digitised is Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) collection and management. Digitising SWMS management is a vital step in adopting the construction management practices of the future.
Conducting SWMS through a digital solution involves the same process of hazard management but upgrades the process. Traditional SWMS management methods reliant on paper-based documentation or manual procedures are time-consuming, error-prone, and hard to report on. This is especially true for SWMS which need to be signed off by multiple stakeholders.
Streamlining SWMS Process
By digitising SWMS, builders, subcontractors, and their employees, as well as visitors, reduce clerical workload for Site Managers and HSEQ managers. By eliminating paper processing for SWMS and moving the process digitally, everyone has access to their SWMS in their pocket and can easily sign off on them. This is also easily reportable with Project Management systems being able to generate accurate reports.
Ensuring Compliance
With a digitally managed SWMS system, Site Managers and HSEQ Managers can ensure everyone has signed off on the most recent SWMS. This is especially important as SWMS must adapt to any change in the conditions of high-risk construction work. No more chasing people around the site to ensure they’ve signed off on their SWMS! Being able to see who and who has not signed off their SWMS and being able to block access to sites if someone hasn’t signed their SWMS are key advantages of digitising SWMS.
Sustainability
Transitioning to digital SWMS reduces paper consumption and waste, aligning with sustainable practices. Rather than printing out SWMS for everyone to sign off on every time there is a change to the SWMS, have a digital system. A paperless system reduces both environmental footprint and costs.
SWMS Version History
A digital system can easily track SWMS through each version and ensure everyone has signed off on the latest version. It also provides visibility on what has and hasn’t been included in the previous versions of the SWMS. This is important as SWMS must be updated as the high-risk construction work changes (HRCW). Ensuring the SWMS reflect the HRCW and demonstrating that your SWMS reflect the change is condition is a key element that must be shown in the case of ISO accreditation, a Worksafe visit or an incident.
How to Get Started
1Breadcrumb offers a digital SWMS solution. The SWMS tool gives you the ability to manage your SWMS on the web, mobile or tablet. Better yet, 1Breadcrumb provides your subcontractors with an app and portal to upload, revise, and sign off on their SWMS. All with greater visibility for you. Learn more about the solution here.
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