Product Overview

This Core Drill Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a fully editable, project-ready document designed to identify hazards and implement controls for core drilling operations, helping you maintain strong WHS compliance on site. It provides comprehensive coverage of all key aspects of Core Drill SWMS activities, from rig mounting and operation through to housekeeping and emergency response.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe selection, inspection and setup of core drilling equipment, including power sources and accessories
• Core rig mounting operation, including secure fixing to slabs, walls, and other structural surfaces
• Verification of structural integrity and services location prior to drilling (including checks for electrical, gas, water and post-tension cables)
• Positioning and stabilising the drill stand to prevent movement, vibration and potential collapse during operation
• Use of correct drill bits, speeds and feed pressure to minimise kick-back, jamming and equipment damage
• Management of dust, slurry and debris using wet methods, extraction systems and appropriate containment
• Electrical safety controls for corded and cordless drills, including RCD protection, cable management and lock-out/tag-out
• Manual handling techniques for moving, lifting and positioning heavy core drilling equipment and accessories
• Noise and vibration exposure management, including hearing protection and task rotation
• Use, maintenance and storage of personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye, face, respiratory, hand and foot protection
• Housekeeping controls to maintain clear access, prevent slips, trips and falls, and manage wet work areas
• Emergency response procedures for equipment failure, electric shock, entanglement, and worker injury

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for concrete cutters, drilling contractors, construction trades, maintenance teams, and site supervisors responsible for overseeing core drilling works on Australian worksites.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017
• Managing the Risk of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on the safe use, inspection and maintenance of drilling plant and equipment
• Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work Code of Practice: Requirements for controlling noise exposure from core drilling operations
• Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice: Controls for working on elevated slabs, platforms or edges during drilling activities
• Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice: Risk management for lifting, carrying and positioning heavy drilling equipment
• AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites: Requirements for temporary electrical installations and RCD protection for powered drills
• AS/NZS 1715 Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment: Guidance for managing dust and slurry inhalation risks during drilling