Product Overview

This Band Saw Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the step-by-step safety controls and procedures required to operate band saws safely on Australian worksites, helping you achieve strong WHS compliance and reduce the risk of injury. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of Band Saw SWMS use, including horizontal band saw operations, set-up, cutting practices, and maintenance activities.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe set-up, positioning, and isolation of band saws prior to use
• Operation of horizontal band saws for cutting metal, timber, and other materials
• Selection of appropriate blades for different materials, thicknesses, and cutting tasks
• Adjustment and alignment of blade guides, tension, and tracking to minimise kickback and blade failure
• Use of guarding, workpiece clamps, vices, and jigs to secure materials during cutting
• Safe feeding techniques and body positioning to keep hands clear of the cutting zone
• Control of noise, vibration, and dust/fume exposure when cutting various materials
• Lock-out/tag-out procedures for cleaning, blade changes, and maintenance activities
• Inspection, replacement, and disposal of damaged or worn band saw blades
• Management of offcuts, swarf, and housekeeping around the saw to prevent slips and trips
• Electrical safety checks, including cords, plugs, isolation switches, and emergency stop testing
• Manual handling of stock, large sections, and finished pieces to reduce strain and crush injuries
• Emergency response procedures for entanglement, lacerations, and other band saw-related incidents

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for metal fabricators, boilermakers, carpenters, manufacturing workshops, maintenance teams, and site supervisors overseeing band saw operations on construction and industrial sites.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on controlling risks associated with machinery such as band saws.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Applicable where coolants, lubricants, or cleaning agents are used with band saws.
• Safe Work Australia – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying, assessing, and controlling risks related to band saw use.
• Safe Work Australia – First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice: Requirements for first aid arrangements for lacerations and other potential injuries.
• AS/NZS 4024 Safety of Machinery (series): Guidance on safeguarding, emergency stops, and safe design of machinery such as band saws.
• AS/NZS 3000 Electrical Installations (Wiring Rules): Requirements for safe electrical installation and connection of band saw equipment.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017