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Turf Laying Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)

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This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) outlines the procedures and safety requirements for turf laying projects. It is designed to assist workers and Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) in complying with the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and Regulations in Australia. This document covers the entire process, from site preparation and material handling to the final installation and cleanup, ensuring all high-risk construction work is managed effectively.

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Overview

What this SWMS covers

Turf laying transforms landscapes by establishing lush, green lawns for residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The process begins with a thorough site assessment to identify potential issues like poor drainage or soil quality. The area is then cleared of all existing vegetation, rocks, and debris. Grading the site is crucial to create a smooth, level surface that prevents water pooling. Following this, a layer of quality topsoil and appropriate fertilisers are spread to provide a nutrient-rich base for the new turf. The turf, typically delivered in rolls, is then laid out in a staggered pattern to ensure seamless joins. This is a physically intensive task requiring careful handling of heavy, awkward rolls. Once laid, the turf is often rolled with a lawn roller to ensure good contact with the soil beneath. The final, critical step is immediate and consistent watering to encourage root establishment and ensure the long-term health of the lawn. This SWMS addresses the safety protocols required for each of these stages.

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Why this SWMS matters

The physical nature of turf laying presents significant risks that must be managed to comply with Australian WHS laws. Musculoskeletal injuries from improper lifting and carrying of turf rolls are a primary concern. A single roll of turf can weigh between 15-25kg, and workers may handle hundreds in a day, leading to cumulative strain on the back, shoulders, and knees. The use of machinery, such as compactors, rotary hoes, or turf cutters, introduces hazards like noise, vibration, and potential impact injuries. Furthermore, the outdoor environment exposes workers to UV radiation, heat stress, and biological hazards like bites and stings. This SWMS is vital for ensuring that these risks are systematically addressed. It provides clear, actionable steps to control hazards, fulfilling the PCBU's duty of care and protecting workers from preventable harm. A well-implemented SWMS not only ensures legal compliance but also enhances project efficiency by reducing downtime due to injuries.

Reinforce licensing, insurance, and regulator expectations for Turf Laying crews before they mobilise.

Hazard identification

Surface the critical risks tied to this work scope and communicate them to every worker.

Risk register

Manual Handling Injuries

high

Lifting, carrying, and laying heavy turf rolls can cause musculoskeletal injuries, including back strain, sprains, and hernias. Repetitive bending and kneeling adds to the risk.

Consequence: Serious and long-term back injuries, chronic pain, and inability to work.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

medium

Uneven ground, loose soil, discarded turf scraps, and tools left on the ground create a significant trip hazard. Wet conditions can make surfaces slippery.

Consequence: Fractures, sprains, and head injuries.

Cuts and Abrasions

medium

Using sharp tools like turf cutters or knives to trim turf rolls can lead to deep cuts if not handled correctly. Contact with rough soil and turf can cause abrasions.

Consequence: Lacerations requiring stitches, potential for infection.

Exposure to UV Radiation and Heat Stress

high

Working outdoors for extended periods, especially in the Australian sun, leads to a high risk of sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.

Consequence: Severe sunburn, heat stroke which can be fatal, and increased long-term risk of skin cancer.

Control measures

Deploy layered controls aligned to the hierarchy of hazard management.

Implementation guide

Use of Mechanical Aids

Engineering

Reduce manual handling risks by using machinery to move materials wherever possible.

Implementation

1. Use forklifts or mini-loaders with turf attachments to move pallets of turf close to the work area. 2. Employ motorised wheelbarrows for transporting individual rolls across the site. 3. Ensure all machinery operators are trained and licensed. 4. Conduct pre-start checks on all equipment.

Proper Manual Handling Techniques

Administrative

Train workers in safe lifting practices to minimise strain.

Implementation

1. Provide training on kinetic lifting techniques (bend the knees, keep the back straight). 2. Encourage team lifts for heavier rolls. 3. Rotate tasks between workers to avoid repetitive strain. 4. Ensure workers take regular rest breaks.

Site Housekeeping

Administrative

Maintain a clean and organised work area to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Implementation

1. Designate a specific area for tool and equipment storage. 2. Remove turf off-cuts and plastic wrapping from the work area immediately. 3. Keep walkways clear of obstructions. 4. Cordon off uneven or excavated areas with high-visibility tape.

Sun and Heat Safety Policy

Administrative

Implement a policy to protect workers from environmental hazards.

Implementation

1. Schedule physically demanding work for cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon). 2. Provide shaded rest areas. 3. Ensure a constant supply of cool drinking water is available. 4. Mandate the use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+).

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Personal protective equipment

Steel-Capped Safety Boots

Requirement: AS/NZS 2210.3

When: At all times on site to protect against falling objects and provide ankle support.

Gloves

Requirement: AS/NZS 2161

When: When handling turf, soil, and fertilisers to protect against cuts, abrasions, and chemical contact.

Wide-Brimmed Hat

Requirement: N/A

When: At all times when working outdoors to protect against UV radiation.

UV-Rated Safety Glasses

Requirement: AS/NZS 1337.1

When: When operating machinery or in dusty conditions to protect eyes from debris and sun glare.

High-Visibility Clothing

Requirement: AS/NZS 4602.1

When: When working near moving vehicles or machinery.

Inspections & checks

Before work starts

  • ✓Assess the site for hazards (e.g., slopes, overhead powerlines, underground services).
  • ✓Check weather forecast and postpone work in extreme heat or rain.
  • ✓Inspect all tools and equipment to ensure they are in good working order.
  • ✓Confirm all workers have the required PPE and it is in good condition.

During work

  • ✓Monitor work area for accumulating debris and maintain good housekeeping.
  • ✓Ensure workers are taking regular breaks and staying hydrated.
  • ✓Supervise the use of machinery to ensure safe operation.
  • ✓Check for signs of fatigue or heat stress among workers.

After work

  • ✓Clean the site of all off-cuts, plastic, and other waste materials.
  • ✓Securely store all tools and equipment.
  • ✓Inspect the newly laid turf to ensure there are no trip hazards at the seams.
  • ✓Report any incidents or near misses that occurred during the job.

Step-by-step work procedure

Give supervisors and crews a clear, auditable sequence for the task.

Field ready
1

Site Preparation and Clearing

Begin by clearing the entire area of existing grass, weeds, rocks, and debris. Use a non-selective herbicide if necessary, following manufacturer's instructions and allowing adequate time for it to work. Rake the area thoroughly to remove all dead organic matter. This step is crucial for ensuring the new turf has direct contact with the soil.

Safety considerations

Beware of hidden objects in long grass. Use appropriate PPE when handling herbicides. Check for underground services before any digging.

2

Grading and Soil Spreading

Grade the soil to create a gentle slope away from buildings for proper drainage. Fill in any low spots and remove high spots to create a level surface. Spread a layer of quality topsoil (50-100mm) evenly across the area. Use a rake or levelling bar to achieve a smooth, final grade.

Safety considerations

Manual spreading of soil is physically demanding; use wheelbarrows and take breaks. Be aware of dust generation; wear a mask if necessary.

3

Handling and Laying Turf Rolls

Start laying the turf along a straight edge, such as a driveway or path. Unroll each piece, ensuring it is laid flat and makes good contact with the soil. Lay the next roll tightly against the first, avoiding any gaps or overlaps. Stagger the joints in a brick-like pattern to create a seamless appearance.

Safety considerations

Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injury. A single roll can be heavy and awkward. Consider team lifts. Watch for finger pinch points when unrolling.

4

Cutting and Shaping

Use a sharp turf cutter or heavy-duty knife to trim turf rolls to fit around curves, garden beds, and sprinkler heads. Ensure cuts are clean and the trimmed pieces fit snugly against the edges.

Safety considerations

Always cut away from your body. Wear cut-resistant gloves. Keep blades sharp for easier and safer cutting.

5

Rolling and Watering

Once all the turf is laid, use a lawn roller to press the turf down firmly against the soil. This removes air pockets and ensures good root-to-soil contact. Immediately after rolling, water the entire lawn thoroughly until the soil beneath is saturated. This is the most critical watering the lawn will receive.

Safety considerations

Be careful when filling and moving the lawn roller as it can be very heavy. Ensure even watering to prevent dry patches.

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time of year to lay turf in Australia?

The best time to lay turf is during the warmer months, typically from early spring to mid-autumn. The warmer soil temperatures encourage faster root establishment. However, turf can be laid year-round in most parts of Australia, but establishment will be slower in winter.

How heavy is a roll of turf?

A standard roll of turf can weigh between 15kg and 25kg, depending on the turf variety and moisture content. This weight is a significant factor in manual handling risks, and using mechanical aids or team lifting is highly recommended for large projects.

Do I need to use a lawn roller after laying turf?

Yes, using a lawn roller is a highly recommended step. It presses the turf firmly against the soil, removing air pockets and ensuring the roots can quickly establish themselves in the new soil base. This leads to a healthier, more uniform lawn.

How soon after laying turf should I water it?

You should water the new turf immediately after it is laid. The first watering should be deep and thorough, ensuring the soil underneath is completely saturated. This is the most critical step for the survival and establishment of your new lawn.

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Overview of Turf Laying

Turf laying is a common landscaping activity that involves preparing a soil base and installing rolls or slabs of pre-grown grass to create a lawn. This process is fundamental in residential gardens, commercial properties, parks, and sporting fields. A typical project involves several key stages: assessing the site, clearing and grading the area, spreading topsoil and fertilisers, laying the turf rolls, and ensuring the new lawn is properly watered and established. The work can range from small residential jobs taking a few hours to large-scale commercial projects spanning several days. It is physically demanding work that requires careful planning to manage risks associated with manual handling, machinery operation, and environmental factors. This SWMS provides a structured framework to identify and control these risks, ensuring the safety of all personnel involved.

Why This SWMS Matters

Under Australian WHS legislation, PCBUs have a primary duty of care to ensure the health and safety of their workers. Turf laying, while seemingly straightforward, involves numerous hazards that can lead to serious injury if not properly controlled. Manual handling of heavy turf rolls can cause musculoskeletal disorders, machinery like compactors and cutters pose impact and noise risks, and outdoor work brings exposure to UV radiation and heat stress. A SWMS is not just a compliance document; it is a critical risk management tool. It demonstrates that a PCBU has systematically identified potential hazards, assessed the risks, and implemented effective control measures. Failure to do so can result in significant penalties, project delays, and, most importantly, preventable injuries. This SWMS helps create a safer work environment, promotes a culture of safety awareness, and ensures that all legal obligations are met.

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Turf Laying SWMS Sample

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Risk Rating

BeforeHigh
After ControlsLow

Key Controls

  • • Pre-start briefing covering hazards
  • • PPE: hard hats, eye protection, gloves
  • • Emergency plan communicated to crew

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