Product Overview

This Chain Saw SWMS is a site-ready Safe Work Method Statement designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement effective controls for the safe use of chainsaws in Australian workplaces. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of chainsaw operation and maintenance to support strong WHS compliance and reduce the likelihood of incidents and injuries.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Handling and operation of electrical chainsaws, including pre-start checks, cord management, and isolation procedures
• Safe use of hydraulic chainsaws, including pressure control, hose inspection, and energy release management
• Kickback handling and prevention, including correct stance, grip, cutting techniques, and use of safety features
• Manipulating chainsaws in various positions and environments to maintain control, stability, and safe body posture
• Replacing chainsaw chains, bars, and related components, including lock-out, de-energising, and correct tensioning
• Use of chainsaws for habitat construction and environmental works, including control of flying debris and protection of nearby fauna
• Selection, inspection, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, eye and face protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps
• Establishing exclusion zones, spotters, and communication protocols when operating chainsaws near other workers or the public
• Managing noise, vibration, and fatigue risks associated with prolonged chainsaw use
• Fuel handling, storage, and refuelling procedures for petrol-powered chainsaws, including fire and spill prevention
• Safe cutting techniques for felling, limbing, pruning, and cross-cutting to prevent entrapment, falls, and uncontrolled movement of timber
• Emergency response procedures, including first aid for lacerations, eye injuries, and dealing with entanglement or trapped operators

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for arborists, landscapers, construction and civil contractors, habitat and environmental crews, maintenance teams, and site supervisors responsible for chainsaw operations.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on controlling risks associated with plant such as chainsaws
• Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work Code of Practice: Requirements for managing noise exposure from chainsaw use
• Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice: Controls for chainsaw work performed at height or on uneven ground
• How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying, assessing, and controlling chainsaw-related risks
• First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice: Ensuring appropriate first aid arrangements for chainsaw operations
• AS/NZS 2161: Occupational protective gloves for hand protection when operating and maintaining chainsaws
• AS/NZS 2210: Safety footwear requirements for workers using chainsaws
• AS/NZS 1337: Eye and face protection for operators exposed to flying debris
• AS/NZS 1270: Hearing protectors for workers exposed to high noise levels from chainsaws
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017