Unsafe work methods toolbox talk
Read it out at the pre-start or a toolbox meeting, talk through the questions, and have everyone sign on. It's built from our unsafe work methods page and the 192 SafetyDocs templates that cover it.
- Site
- Date
- Presented by
What it is
Work methods unsuited to the task or conditions, such as ones that introduce ignition sources, release contaminants or ignore permit conditions.
Controls to check, most effective first
- Develop work methods with the workers doing the task, and document them in a SWMS or procedure that suits the site.
- Review the method before starting whenever conditions, equipment or the scope of work change.
- Follow all permit conditions, such as for hot work and confined space entry, and stop work if they cannot be met.
- Supervise the work to check the method is being followed, and correct shortcuts straight away.
- Encourage workers to stop and speak up when a method looks unsafe, and review it before work resumes.
Questions for the crew
- Where could unsafe work methods come up on this job today?
- The most effective control is: “Develop work methods with the workers doing the task, and document them in a SWMS or procedure that suits the site”. Can we do that here? If not, why not?
- Which controls for unsafe work methods are missing or not working on this site?
- When would you stop work because of unsafe work methods, and who would you tell?
- How do we report a hazard, a near miss or an incident on this job?
Sign-on record
Everyone who attended signs below. Keep it with your toolbox talk records.
| Name | Company | Signature |
|---|---|---|
A starting point for a talk, not a SWMS or a risk assessment. Add what's particular to your site and crew.