Safe Work Method Statement for Roadside Trading and Mobile Vending Operations

Roadside Trading

Traffic Safety Compliant - 500+ Vending Operations Protected

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2,000+

Companies

$3.6K

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Avoid WHS penalties up to $3.6M—issue compliant SWMS to every crew before work starts.

Roadside trading encompasses mobile food vending, refreshment services, and commercial activities conducted near construction sites and roadways, requiring specialized safety protocols for traffic hazards, food safety compliance, and public protection. Workers operating mobile vending units face risks from passing traffic, pedestrian interactions, food handling requirements, and working in variable environmental conditions. Construction sites often require catering services for workers, creating the need for safe mobile food operations near active work zones. The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 requires comprehensive risk assessment for roadside trading activities, with specific attention to traffic management, food safety standards, and public safety. Roadside trading must comply with local government regulations, traffic authority requirements, and food safety standards while maintaining safe separation from construction activities. Operations involve vehicle positioning, traffic control measures, food preparation and service protocols, and emergency response procedures. Effective SWMS procedures ensure systematic hazard identification, implementation of traffic control barriers and signage, administrative controls including licensing and supervision, and appropriate PPE to protect workers and the public while enabling essential catering services for construction sites.

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Overview

What this SWMS covers

Roadside trading involves mobile commercial activities including food vending, refreshment services, and retail operations conducted near construction sites and roadways. The work encompasses vehicle positioning for safe operations, traffic management implementation, food preparation and service protocols, waste disposal procedures, and coordination with construction activities. Construction sites require catering services for workforces, necessitating mobile kitchens, food trucks, and refreshment vehicles positioned near work zones while maintaining safe separation from traffic and construction hazards. Operations must comply with local government regulations, traffic authority requirements, Food Standards Code, and WHS legislation. Site selection evaluates traffic flow patterns, pedestrian access routes, construction activity proximity, emergency vehicle access, and weather protection. Operations involve setup of safety barriers, traffic signage, food preparation areas, service protocols, and public interaction management. Equipment includes mobile vending vehicles, safety barriers, traffic cones, food preparation tools, refrigeration units, and emergency signaling devices. Safety protocols address traffic hazards, food safety compliance, manual handling, electrical safety, and environmental conditions. Documentation maintains records of site locations, operating hours, food safety compliance, traffic incident reports, and regulatory approvals for compliance verification and continuous improvement.

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Fully editable, audit-ready, and aligned to Australian WHS standards.

Why this SWMS matters

Reinforce licensing, insurance, and regulator expectations for Roadside Trading Safe Work Method Statement crews before they mobilise.

Hazard identification

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

Risk register

Traffic collisions and vehicle strikes

high

Vending vehicles or workers struck by passing traffic due to poor visibility, inadequate site positioning, or insufficient traffic control measures.

Consequence: Fatal or severe injuries, vehicle damage, disruption to traffic flow, or emergency response complications.

Pedestrian and public interaction hazards

medium

Interactions with construction workers, pedestrians, or the public creating risks of slips, trips, contamination, or aggressive behavior.

Consequence: Injuries from falls, food contamination, assault, or public health incidents.

Food safety and contamination risks

medium

Improper temperature control, cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods, or inadequate hygiene practices leading to foodborne illness.

Consequence: Food poisoning outbreaks, legal liability, business closure, or health department interventions.

Manual handling and ergonomic injuries

medium

Lifting heavy food containers, equipment, or supplies without proper techniques or mechanical assistance in awkward positions.

Consequence: Back injuries, muscle strains, hernias, or long-term musculoskeletal disorders.

Electrical hazards from generators and equipment

medium

Faulty electrical systems, improper grounding, damaged cords, or contact with power sources in wet conditions.

Consequence: Electric shock, burns, fire hazards, or equipment malfunction.

Slips, trips, and falls from site conditions

medium

Uneven surfaces, spilled liquids, debris, or weather-related hazards creating slip and fall risks around vending areas.

Consequence: Fractures, head injuries, sprains, or compound injuries from falls.

Weather and environmental exposure

low

Extreme temperatures, rain, wind, or sun exposure affecting worker safety, food safety, and equipment operation.

Consequence: Heat exhaustion, food spoilage, reduced visibility, or equipment damage.

Waste management and environmental hazards

low

Improper disposal of food waste, packaging, or cleaning chemicals creating environmental contamination or pest attraction.

Consequence: Environmental pollution, pest infestations, or regulatory non-compliance penalties.

Control measures

Deploy layered controls aligned to the hierarchy of hazard management.

Implementation guide

Site selection and traffic assessment

Administrative

Comprehensive evaluation of vending locations for traffic hazards, visibility, access, and proximity to construction activities.

Implementation

1. Assess traffic volume, speed, and patterns at potential sites 2. Evaluate visibility from approaching vehicles 3. Check proximity to construction hazards and equipment 4. Verify emergency vehicle access routes 5. Consult with local traffic authorities 6. Obtain necessary permits and approvals 7. Document site assessment and approval process 8. Monitor traffic conditions during operation

Traffic control and safety barriers

Engineering

Installation of physical barriers, signage, and traffic control measures to protect vending operations from traffic hazards.

Implementation

1. Install traffic barriers and safety fencing 2. Place high-visibility signage and warning devices 3. Use traffic cones and delineators 4. Implement vehicle speed reduction measures 5. Create designated pedestrian access routes 6. Install illuminated signs for night operations 7. Maintain clear emergency access routes 8. Monitor barrier effectiveness throughout operation

Food safety and hygiene compliance

Administrative

Implementation of Food Standards Code requirements for safe food handling, storage, and service in mobile operations.

Implementation

1. Maintain proper food storage temperatures 2. Implement hand washing and hygiene protocols 3. Use food-safe containers and utensils 4. Prevent cross-contamination between food types 5. Monitor food temperatures during service 6. Implement pest control measures 7. Train staff in food safety procedures 8. Maintain food safety documentation

Vehicle and equipment safety

Engineering

Safe positioning and operation of vending vehicles and equipment to prevent traffic hazards and operational incidents.

Implementation

1. Position vehicles with adequate clearance from traffic 2. Install vehicle stabilizing devices 3. Secure equipment during non-operation 4. Maintain proper vehicle lighting and reflectors 5. Install backup alarms for vehicle movement 6. Regular vehicle safety inspections 7. Emergency shutdown procedures 8. Proper vehicle maintenance and servicing

Public interaction and crowd management

Administrative

Procedures for managing public interactions, crowd control, and maintaining safe separation between customers and traffic.

Implementation

1. Establish customer queuing areas away from traffic 2. Implement crowd control barriers and signage 3. Train staff in customer service safety 4. Monitor for intoxicated or aggressive customers 5. Maintain clear separation from construction areas 6. Implement emergency crowd dispersal procedures 7. Coordinate with construction site security 8. Document public interaction incidents

Weather protection and environmental controls

Engineering

Protection from weather conditions and implementation of environmental controls for safe operations.

Implementation

1. Install weather protection for service areas 2. Monitor weather conditions and forecasts 3. Prepare contingency plans for adverse weather 4. Protect food from environmental contamination 5. Maintain proper drainage around vending areas 6. Use weather-resistant signage and barriers 7. Implement heat/cold stress prevention measures 8. Document weather-related operational changes

Waste management and environmental compliance

Administrative

Proper handling and disposal of food waste, packaging, and cleaning materials to prevent environmental contamination.

Implementation

1. Implement waste segregation procedures 2. Use approved waste disposal methods 3. Prevent litter and waste accumulation 4. Control cleaning chemical disposal 5. Implement spill containment measures 6. Coordinate with local waste management 7. Maintain waste storage in pest-proof containers 8. Document waste disposal compliance

Personal protective equipment

PPE

Appropriate PPE for workers operating in traffic environments and handling food service operations.

Implementation

1. High-visibility vests for traffic areas 2. Safety footwear with slip-resistant soles 3. Cut-resistant gloves for food handling 4. Eye protection for debris hazards 5. Hearing protection near traffic 6. Sun protection for outdoor work 7. Food-safe aprons and head coverings 8. First aid kit readily accessible

Download complete control procedures

Personal protective equipment

High-visibility vest

Requirement: AS/NZS 4602 Class D or higher

When: All operations near traffic areas and during customer service

Safety footwear

Requirement: Steel toe cap, slip-resistant soles AS 2210.3

When: Working around vehicles, equipment, and wet surfaces

Cut-resistant gloves

Requirement: Food-safe, cut-resistant material

When: Food preparation and handling sharp implements

Safety glasses

Requirement: AS/NZS 1336 - Medium impact resistance

When: Working with food processing or near traffic debris

Hard hat

Requirement: AS/NZS 1801 Type 1 or 2

When: Working under potential construction hazards or near equipment

Hearing protection

Requirement: Disposable earplugs or earmuffs

When: Working near traffic or construction machinery

Food-safe apron

Requirement: Easy-clean, stain-resistant material

When: Food preparation and service operations

Inspections & checks

Before work starts

✓Assess site traffic conditions and visibility
✓Check vehicle positioning and stability
✓Verify traffic control barriers and signage
✓Inspect food storage temperatures and conditions
✓Check electrical equipment and cords
✓Verify waste disposal arrangements
✓Confirm emergency equipment availability
✓Review weather conditions and forecasts

During work

✓Monitor traffic flow and hazards continuously
✓Check food temperatures and hygiene conditions
✓Inspect barriers and signage for damage
✓Monitor customer behavior and crowd control
✓Verify waste management procedures
✓Check equipment functionality and safety
✓Observe worker PPE usage
✓Monitor weather and environmental conditions

After work

✓Document traffic incidents or near misses
✓Check food waste and disposal compliance
✓Inspect site for cleanliness and debris
✓Verify equipment storage and security
✓Document customer service incidents
✓Review operational safety performance
✓Update hazard assessments as needed
✓Complete post-operation safety debrief

Step-by-step work procedure

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

Field ready

Site Selection and Assessment

Evaluate and select appropriate vending location based on traffic, safety, and operational requirements.

Safety considerations

Never operate in locations with inadequate visibility or unsafe traffic conditions.

Traffic Control Setup

Install barriers, signage, and traffic control measures to protect the vending area.

Safety considerations

Traffic control must be clearly visible and effective before allowing customer access.

Vehicle and Equipment Positioning

Position vending vehicle and equipment safely away from traffic hazards.

Safety considerations

Ensure adequate clearance from traffic and stable vehicle positioning.

Food Safety Preparation

Set up food preparation and service areas following hygiene and safety protocols.

Safety considerations

Maintain strict separation between food preparation and customer areas.

Operations and Customer Service

Conduct vending operations while maintaining safety protocols and customer management.

Safety considerations

Monitor traffic conditions and customer behavior continuously.

Closure and Cleanup

Safely close operations, clean equipment, and secure the site.

Safety considerations

Complete cleanup and barrier removal only when traffic conditions are safe.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the key requirements for roadside trading near construction sites?

Roadside trading requires local government approval, traffic authority permits, food safety licensing, and compliance with WHS regulations. Operations must maintain safe separation from traffic, implement proper barriers, and coordinate with construction site management.

How should traffic hazards be controlled for mobile vending operations?

Traffic control requires physical barriers, high-visibility signage, adequate site lighting, and proper vehicle positioning. Operations should avoid peak traffic times, use flag persons if needed, and ensure emergency vehicle access remains clear.

What food safety standards apply to roadside trading?

Food safety must comply with Food Standards Code including temperature control (5°C cold, 60°C hot), hygiene protocols, cross-contamination prevention, and waste management. Mobile vendors need appropriate licensing and regular health inspections.

How should waste be managed in roadside trading operations?

Waste must be segregated, stored in pest-proof containers, and disposed of through approved methods. Food waste should be collected regularly, and cleaning chemicals disposed of according to environmental regulations.

What emergency procedures are needed for roadside trading?

Emergency procedures include evacuation routes, first aid response, traffic incident management, and communication with emergency services. Operations should have clear procedures for medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, and adverse weather conditions.

How should public interactions be managed safely?

Public interactions require designated queuing areas, crowd control barriers, and staff training in customer service safety. Operations should monitor for intoxicated customers, maintain safe distances from traffic, and have procedures for handling aggressive behavior.

Overview

Roadside trading involves mobile commercial operations including food vending, refreshment services, and retail activities conducted near construction sites and roadways. The work encompasses vehicle positioning for safe operations, traffic management, food preparation and service, waste management, and coordination with construction activities. Construction sites require catering services for large workforces, creating the need for mobile kitchens, food trucks, and refreshment vehicles positioned near work zones. Operations must comply with local government regulations, traffic authority requirements, food safety standards, and WHS legislation. Site selection considers traffic flow, pedestrian access, construction activity proximity, and emergency vehicle access. Operations involve setup of safety barriers, traffic signage, food preparation areas, and service protocols while maintaining awareness of construction hazards. Equipment includes mobile vending vehicles, safety barriers, traffic cones, food preparation tools, and emergency equipment. Safety protocols address traffic hazards, food safety compliance, manual handling, and environmental conditions. Documentation maintains records of site locations, operating hours, food safety compliance, and incident reports for regulatory compliance and continuous improvement.

Why This SWMS Matters

Roadside trading combines traffic hazards, food safety responsibilities, and public interaction risks that can cause serious accidents or health issues if not properly controlled. Construction sites near roadways create high-risk environments where mobile vending operations can lead to traffic collisions, food contamination, or public safety incidents. The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 requires PCBUs to identify hazards and implement control measures for roadside trading activities, particularly when operating near high-traffic areas and construction zones. Food safety regulations under Food Standards Code add complexity, requiring temperature control, hygiene protocols, and contamination prevention. Without comprehensive SWMS procedures, workers risk traffic accidents from poor vehicle positioning, foodborne illness outbreaks from improper handling, or injuries from manual handling and equipment operation. Legal requirements include traffic management compliance, local government approvals, food safety licensing, and coordination with construction site management. This SWMS ensures systematic hazard identification, implementation of traffic control barriers and proper site selection, administrative controls including licensing and supervision, and appropriate PPE to protect workers and the public while enabling essential catering services for construction operations.

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