Ensure safe and effective power tool operation with this Power Tools SWMS. This document outlines a structured approach to identifying and controlling hazards associated with using power tools. 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 Awareness & Hazard Identification
Unaware of Hazards – All workers must receive training on site-specific hazards before starting work. Risk assessments must be conducted, and the SWMS must be reviewed before commencing work.
Visual Inspection & Hazard Reporting – Workers must perform visual inspections and report any hazards that arise during the work process.
Licensing & Competency Requirements – Workers must hold the appropriate licenses and qualifications before operating power tools.
2️⃣ Preparation of Work Area
Inadequate Lighting – Sufficient lighting must be provided to ensure visibility during work.
Hot Work Risks – A Hot Work Permit must be obtained if cutting or grinding activities are required. Hot work is prohibited on fire ban days without a permit.
Housekeeping & Trip Hazards – Work areas must be kept clean and free from obstructions, and all tools and equipment must be stored properly to prevent trip hazards.
3️⃣ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Injury & Illness Risks – All workers must wear appropriate PPE, including steel-capped boots, gloves, eye protection, face shields, and hearing protection.
PPE Training & Inspection – Workers must be trained in the correct use, maintenance, and storage of PPE. PPE must be inspected before use to ensure it is in good condition.
4️⃣ Manual Handling & Ergonomic Risks
Strains, Sprains & Soft Tissue Injuries – Workers must use correct manual handling techniques, including bending the knees when lifting and avoiding twisting while carrying loads.
Heavy or Awkward Items – Assistance or lifting equipment must be used when handling heavy or awkward items.
Task Rotation – Workers must rotate tasks to prevent repetitive strain injuries.
5️⃣ Pre-Operation Inspection of Power Tools
Failure to Inspect Equipment – Operators must visually inspect power tools before use, including checking electrical leads and guards.
Tool Maintenance & Repairs – Tools must be maintained according to manufacturer specifications, and any faults must be reported immediately. Faulty tools must not be used until repaired.
Electrical Safety Checks – All power tools must have a current test and tag status before use.
6️⃣ Use of Power Tools – General Hazards
Entanglement Risks – Long hair, loose clothing, rags, and jewellery must be secured to prevent entanglement in moving parts.
Flying Objects & Debris – Workpieces must be securely clamped, and appropriate PPE, such as face shields, must be worn.
Crush & Impact Injuries – Operators must ensure hands and body parts are kept clear of moving parts during operation.
7️⃣ Vibrations & Noise Exposure
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) – Workers must wear anti-vibration gloves and rotate tasks to prevent prolonged exposure.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss – Noisy tools should be avoided where possible. If unavoidable, quieter tools must be selected, and hearing protection must be worn.
Isolation of Noisy Operations – Where possible, power tool operations should be conducted in isolated areas to reduce noise exposure to other workers.
8️⃣ Electrical Hazards & Safety Precautions
Electrocution Risks – Electrical leads and power pack chargers must be checked before use and must have a current test and tag.
Use of Residual Current Devices (RCDs) – Power tools must be plugged into an RCD unit unless the site has a fixed RCD installed.
Wet Conditions & Power Tools – Power tools must not be operated in wet conditions, and leads must be kept dry at all times.
9️⃣ Completion of Work & End of Workday Procedures
Storage of Tools & Equipment – Tools must be stored securely when not in use to prevent unauthorised access.
Manual Handling Risks – Heavy equipment and materials must be removed using proper lifting techniques.
Site Cleanliness & Housekeeping – The work area must be cleaned and cleared of debris at the end of each shift.
🔟 Emergency Preparedness & Incident Response
First Aid & Fire Safety Measures – Workers must be aware of the location and use of first aid kits and fire-fighting equipment. 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.
Activation of Site Emergency Procedures – In case of a major incident, emergency protocols must be followed, including contacting emergency services and securing the site.
 
Key Features of the SWMS:
Supports Compliance – Helps businesses align with Australian workplace safety standards for power tool operations.
Structured Risk Management – Identifies hazards, implements control measures, and provides step-by-step safety guidelines.
Emergency Readiness – Establishes clear procedures for incident response, noise exposure, and electrical hazards.
Fully Customisable – Can be tailored to specific power tool applications, workplace environments, and job site requirements.
 
Who is This SWMS Suitable For?
This Power Tools SWMS is essential for:
Construction & Engineering Teams
Maintenance & Facility Management Workers
Manufacturing & Workshop Operators
Electricians & Fitters
 
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 power tool operations. Download the Power Tools SWMS today and implement best-practice risk management for your team.