Ensure safe and efficient painting operations with this Painting (General) SWMS. This document outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with general painting tasks, including material handling, working at heights, and chemical exposure. It provides essential risk controls, hazard management strategies, and best practices to support compliance with Australian workplace safety standards while maintaining a secure work environment.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Pre-Operation Safety Checks
Poor Preparation & Lack of Competence – All workers must review the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) before using any chemicals or materials.
Equipment Inspection & Maintenance – All painting equipment, including brushes, rollers, ladders, and electrical tools, must be in good working condition. Leads must be tested and tagged, and all certified equipment must have current certification.
First Aid & Emergency Readiness – A first aid kit must be available on-site and up to date. Workers must have access to clean water for hand washing and decontamination.
2️⃣ Manual Handling & Ergonomic Risks
Lifting & Carrying Heavy Loads – Workers must use proper lifting techniques, and mechanical aids must be used for loads over 16kg. Heavy or awkward objects must be lifted with assistance.
Reaching & Straining – Small step ladders must be used to avoid overreaching. Tasks must be rotated to prevent repetitive strain injuries.
Work Area Organisation – Clear pathways must be maintained, and all materials must be positioned to minimise unnecessary movement.
3️⃣ Chemical Exposure & Hazardous Substances
Inhalation & Skin Contact Risks – Workers must wear gloves, respirators, and safety masks when handling chemicals such as paints, thinners, and fillers.
Chemical Labeling & Storage – All chemical containers must be clearly labelled, sealed when not in use, and stored in appropriate areas.
Ventilation & Fume Management – Work must be conducted in well-ventilated areas.
4️⃣ Working at Heights & Scaffold Safety
Risk of Falls & Scaffold Collapse – All scaffolds must conform to AS/NZS 4576 and AS/NZS 1576 safety guidelines. Mobile scaffolds must be secured and not moved while occupied.
Fall Protection Measures – Where there is a risk of falling more than 2 metres, compliant fall arrest systems must be used.
Falling Objects & Exclusion Zones – Tools and materials must be secured, and exclusion zones must be set up below scaffolding to prevent injuries from falling objects.
5️⃣ Paint Application & Surface Preparation
Dust & Fume Exposure During Sanding – Workers must wear a dust mask and eye protection when sanding surfaces. Work areas must be ventilated as much as possible.
Incorrect Paint Preparation – Only properly labelled and mixed paints must be used. Workers must be trained in the correct methods of mixing and applying paint.
Overspray & Environmental Protection – Drop sheets and plastic coverings must be used to protect surrounding areas, including customer belongings and nearby vegetation.
6️⃣ Use of Power Tools & Spray Equipment
Crush Injuries & Moving Parts – Operators must ensure their hands and body are kept clear of moving parts. Appropriate machine guards must be in place and maintained.
Noise Exposure – Noisy equipment must be used in isolation where possible, and hearing protection must be worn. Workers must rotate tasks to minimise prolonged exposure.
Safe Operation of Spray Guns – Spray guns must be used with proper pressure settings, and nozzles must be cleaned regularly to prevent clogging. Operators must wear protective masks and gloves.
7️⃣ Generator Use & Electrical Safety
Electrocution Risks – All generators must be set up in well-ventilated areas and must not be placed in accessways. The generator’s RCD (Residual Current Device) must be tested and tagged.
Fire & Refuelling Safety – Generators must be shut down and allowed to cool before refuelling. Fuel must be stored according to SDS guidelines, and fire extinguishers must be available nearby.
Trip Hazards & Lead Management – Electrical leads must be kept off walkways and stored properly when not in use.
8️⃣ Site Cleanup & Waste Disposal
Housekeeping & Environmental Protection – All waste materials, including paint, rags, and chemicals, must be disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations.
Manual Handling During Pack-Up – Workers must follow proper lifting techniques when storing equipment. Heavy items must be transported using wheelbarrows or hand trolleys.
Chemical Spill & Containment – Spills must be cleaned immediately, and contaminated materials must be disposed of safely. SDS guidelines must be followed for handling hazardous substances.
9️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Measures – Workers must be aware of the location and use of first aid kits and fire extinguishers. Emergency contact details must be readily available.
Incident Reporting & Work Cessation – All injuries, near misses, and unexpected hazards must be reported immediately. Work must stop until risks are reassessed and controlled.
Emergency Contact Procedures – In case of a major accident, emergency procedures must be followed, including contacting emergency services (000) and activating site emergency plans.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Supports Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety standards for general painting operations.
Structured Risk Management – Identifies hazards, implements control measures, and provides step-by-step safety guidelines.
Emergency Readiness – Establishes clear procedures for incident response, hazardous material handling, and working at heights.
Fully Customisable – Can be tailored to specific painting projects and worksite requirements.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Painting (General) SWMS is essential for:
Commercial & Residential Painters
Building & Maintenance Contractors
Industrial & Protective Coating Specialists
Facility & Property Maintenance Teams
 
Additional Resources:
Included with your purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List to support your WHS documentation.
 
Ensure safe and compliant painting operations. Download the Painting (General) SWMS today and implement best-practice risk management for your site.