In Australia, we see a lot of unnecessary Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) when a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) or a Safe Work Procedure (SWP) would be fine. SWMS are only required for High Risk Construction work (HRCW). If the activity is not High-Risk Construction Work (HRCW), you may only need a JSA or SWP.
The attached decision tree is a guide to help you decide whether you need a SWMS, a JSA or a SWP. Remember, whatever the document is called, the whole point of developing a SWMS, JSA or SWP is to make sure that the people tasked with the activity people are not injured or killed while performing the activity. This is all about keeping people safe.
Don’t forget, you must get advice from a subject matter expert.