Product Overview

This Ventilation Safety SWMS is a site-ready Safe Work Method Statement designed to identify hazards and implement effective controls for the installation, operation, and maintenance of ventilation systems in Australian workplaces. It is a comprehensive document covering multiple aspects of ventilation safety, helping your business demonstrate robust WHS compliance and risk management for air quality and extraction activities.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Pre-start inspection and functional checks of extraction fans prior to use
• Safe setup, positioning, and securing of extractor fans to prevent movement, vibration, or tip-over
• Correct fitting and sealing of roof and wall ventilators to maintain weatherproofing and structural integrity
• Planning and implementing indoor air quality measures to minimise dust, fumes, and airborne contaminants
• Installation of ventilation louvres, including fixing methods, working at height considerations, and manual handling controls
• Safe installation of extractor fans, ductwork, and associated electrical components in accordance with manufacturer instructions
• Routine maintenance, servicing, and cleaning of ventilation systems to ensure ongoing performance and safety
• Operation and monitoring of mechanical ventilation systems in workshops, warehouses, and enclosed spaces
• Safe use and operation of booster fans to improve airflow without creating noise, vibration, or electrical hazards
• Implementation of proper ventilation procedures for confined or poorly ventilated areas to reduce exposure risks
• Sawdust extraction system maintenance, including filter cleaning, dust collection, and fire/explosion risk controls
• Setting up portable and fixed ventilation fans to optimise air flow while managing trip, electrical, and guarding hazards
• Cleaning and maintenance of smoke and fume extraction systems, including filters, ducts, and hoods
• Safe use of exhaust extraction units for welding fumes, vehicle exhaust, and other hazardous airborne contaminants
• Lock-out/tag-out and isolation procedures for ventilation equipment during maintenance and repair activities

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for HVAC and mechanical services contractors, workshop and manufacturing operators, woodworking and metal fabrication businesses, facility managers, and site supervisors responsible for ventilation, extraction, and indoor air quality systems.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Guidance on ventilation, air quality, and work environment conditions
• How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying, assessing, and controlling risks associated with ventilation systems
• Managing the Risks of Airborne Contaminants at Workplaces Code of Practice: Requirements for controlling dust, fumes, vapours, and other airborne hazards
• Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Controls where ventilation is used to manage hazardous chemical exposure
• AS 1668.1 The use of ventilation and airconditioning in buildings – Fire and smoke control in buildings: Requirements for smoke and heat control systems integrated with ventilation
• AS 1668.2 The use of ventilation and airconditioning in buildings – Mechanical ventilation in buildings: Design and performance criteria for mechanical ventilation systems
• AS/NZS 3000 Electrical Installations (Wiring Rules): Electrical safety requirements relevant to powered fans and extraction units
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017