Forestry Harvesting Operations SWMS
SWMS template for forestry harvesting operations. Covers Tree-felling plan, drop zones, harvester/forwarder ops.. 8-state AU coverage, CIH-reviewed editable DOCX delivered within 24 hours of payment.
SWMS variants reference your state’s WHS legislation. Instant download after payment.
Forestry harvesting covers tree-felling, drop zone control, and harvester/forwarder operations in production forests. This work is High Risk Construction Work under WHS Regulation 2011 requiring a documented SWMS before commencement, addressing felling plans, mobile plant exclusion zones, and chainsaw operator competency across all Australian jurisdictions.
Hazards identified
3 hazards covered, sorted by priority.
Fatal crush or chainsaw laceration injury
Run-over fatality or serious crush injury
Plant overturn fatality or musculoskeletal injury
Control measures
Hierarchy-of-controls order: elimination → substitution → isolation → engineering → administrative → PPE.
- 1Establish two-tree-length drop zone exclusion; verify felling plan and escape route before each cut.
- 2Maintain plant separation distances; spotter and UHF radio communication mandatory between harvester and ground crew.
- 3Pre-start terrain assessment; restrict harvester operation on slopes exceeding manufacturer's stability rating.
Applicable Codes of Practice
Chainsaw operator competency and felling technique standard
Harvesting safety, drop zones, and plant operation requirements
High-Risk Construction Work triggered
Not applicable — forestry triggers mobile plant and powered tool HRCW provisions instead.
Harvester and forwarder operations require SWMS under WHS Regulation r291 mobile plant provisions.
Operating without SWMS breaches WHS Reg r299; penalties exceed $6,000 individual.
What you receive
- ✓Editable DOCX SWMS template customisable to your harvesting site and crew
- ✓State-specific WHS legislation schedule covering all 8 Australian jurisdictions
- ✓Hazard register with risk matrix for forestry operations
- ✓Worker sign-on register for SWMS consultation evidence
Related legislation
- WHS Regulation 2011 r291 — High Risk Construction Work SWMS
- WHS Act 2011 s19 — Primary duty of care
- WHS Regulation 2011 Part 3.2 — Powered mobile plant