Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for events
Any risks defined as part of your event's risk assessment as ‘High Risk Construction Work’ and undertaken by a contractor require a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS).
The contractor should provide you with a SWMS before on site works start. During the construction period check that the contractor and staff are following the SWMS. Definition of High Risk Construction Work – events related:
- any:
- construction wall mast tower pylon or structural cable
- fixed plant
- formwork falsework scaffold or other construction designed or used to provide support or access or containment during construction
- ship or submarine
- work performed under water including work on buoys obstructions to navigation rafts ships and wrecks
- installation testing:
- and maintenance of gas water sewerage electricity or telecommunications services in or on any building or structure
- maintenance and repair work performed in connection with the construction work
- involving:
- a trench or shaft deeper than 1.5 metres
- powered mobile plant
- near gas/electrical installations or services
- over or around liquids if there is a risk someone may drown
- risk of persons falling more than 2 metres (that is: erection of large marquees and stages)
- use of temporary support - scaffolding.
Fire management and prevention
The management of fire is an important element to manage for any event.
Working with children at events
In 2006 the Victorian Government introduced a new checking system to help protect children under 18 years of age from physical or sexual harm.
Helicopters and events
Planning an event where helicopters are either required or desired can be challenging.
Extreme weather and events
Your risk management plan needs to address 'weather' and what procedures are in place on the event day in the event of extreme weather.
Events near or on the water
If you are planning to stage your event near or on a waterway, beach or swimming pool, then there are several risk factors that you need to consider.
Gas safety for events
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is the fuel used by many catering vendors for heating and cooling purposes.
Handling and storage of fuel at events
You must comply with the Dangerous Goods Act 1985 and other relevant Australian Standards for handling and storing fuel at your event.
Power management at events
You need to manage power for you event site - to ensure you have an adequate supply and that all uses of power are appropriately managed.
Fireworks, pyrotechnics and Worksafe at events
If you propose using fireworks or any form of pyrotechnics at your event, there are a number of steps you need to be aware of including detailing the management of these activities in your risk management plan.
Developing your event Risk Assessment
A risk management plan is a document that identifies and specifies an approach required to manage risks associated with your event.
Insurance requirements for events
Event organisers must provide insurance and complete a Form of Indemnity, in addition to developing a risk assessment and risk management plan.
Public protection for event sites
It is your responsibility as event organiser to provide a site that is safe for the public, event staff, volunteers and contractors at all stages of the event.
Constructions, structures and the Victorian Regulations
Some event sites may be deemed ‘construction sites’ which means you must meet Victorian Construction Regulations and the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulations 2007.
Safely managing smaller structures at events
All structures no matter how big or how small, need to be safely secured. An umbrella can, if not become airborne in windy conditions if it is not properly secured.
Stages and platforms
Stages and platforms are relatively common at events. It is important to understand your obligations as the event organiser for the construction of your stage and/or platform.
Inflatable land-based devices at events
Jumping castles or inflatable land-borne devices are a popular addition to parties, school fetes, sporting activities, community festivals and events.