Help ensure compliance & protect your team with this industry-leading SWMS. This Welding & Cutting Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides a structured approach to identifying and controlling risks associated with welding, thermal cutting, and heating tasks. It outlines hazard controls, risk mitigation strategies, and best practices to help businesses adhere to Australian workplace safety standards while ensuring worker safety.
 
Hazards & Control Measures Covered:
1️⃣ Planning & Risk Assessment:
Site Induction & Hazard Awareness: Ensures all personnel complete site-specific induction and are aware of workplace hazards.
Hot Work Permit Requirements: Requires a hot work permit before commencing welding or cutting tasks.
Work Area Setup: Ensures the workspace is free from flammable materials, grease, or oil before work begins.
2️⃣ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Mandatory PPE Use: Includes safety boots, gloves, high-visibility clothing, welding masks, face shields, respirators, and hearing protection.
PPE Inspections: All PPE must be checked before use and meet Australian Standards.
3️⃣ Hot Work & Fire Safety Controls:
Fire & Explosion Risks: Work area must be isolated, and ventilation provided when welding in confined spaces.
Fire Suppression Equipment: Fire extinguishers must be available at all times near the work area.
Hot Work in Confined Spaces: Requires compliance with confined space procedures and additional ventilation measures.
4️⃣ Electrical & Equipment Safety:
Pre-Use Equipment Inspections: All welding and cutting equipment must be checked for damage before use.
Electrical Hazard Management: Welding leads and power cables must be secured to prevent trip hazards and moisture exposure.
Isolation of Power Supply: Power to welding equipment must be turned off and isolated when not in use.
5️⃣ Gas & Chemical Exposure Controls:
Storage & Handling of Gas Cylinders: Cylinders must be stored upright, secured, and protected from heat sources.
Flashback Arrestors on Oxy-Acetylene Equipment: Must be fitted to prevent flashback incidents.
Ventilation for Welding Fumes: Adequate airflow must be maintained, and respirators used when welding materials that emit toxic fumes.
6️⃣ Manual Handling & Worksite Safety:
Lifting & Carrying Heavy Equipment: Workers must use correct manual handling techniques to prevent strain injuries.
Housekeeping & Trip Hazard Management: Hoses, leads, and tools must be kept tidy to prevent slips and trips.
Exclusion Zones & Barricades: Work areas must be secured to prevent unauthorised access and protect other workers from welding arcs.
7️⃣ Emergency Preparedness & Response:
Fire & First Aid Procedures: Workers must be aware of fire safety protocols and first aid locations.
Emergency Shutdown of Welding Equipment: Power and gas supplies must be turned off when work is completed.
Incident & Injury Reporting: All accidents, near-misses, or injuries must be reported immediately to a supervisor.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Regulatory Compliance: Helps you align with Australian workplace safety laws and welding & cutting safety regulations.
Hazard Identification & Risk Control: Comprehensive risk management strategies to mitigate welding-related dangers.
Emergency Preparedness: Clear response plans for fire, gas leaks, and hot work incidents.
Fully Customisable Content: Easily editable to suit specific job sites and work environments.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Welding & Cutting SWMS is essential for:
Boilermakers & Fabricators
Industrial & Construction Welders
Metalworkers & Manufacturing Crews
Any Trade Conducting Welding or Thermal Cutting Operations
 
Additional Resources:
Included with the purchase is a free copy of our Legislation & Codes of Practice Reference List.
 
Ensure your workforce is equipped with the right procedures for welding and cutting safely. Download the Welding & Cutting SWMS today and help maintain a safe and compliant workplace.