Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the high-level procedures, risk controls, and safety requirements for the use of impact wrenches and high torque fastening tools on Australian worksites. It is a comprehensive document that addresses multiple aspects of impact wrench safety, high torque fastening operations, and associated drilling and percussion tasks to support strong WHS compliance.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe setup, inspection, and operation of impact wrenches and high torque fastening tools
• Fixing brackets using a hammer drill, including drilling into masonry, concrete, and structural steel
• Selection, fitting, and secure use of sockets, bits, anchors, and fasteners for high torque applications
• Using percussion tools (including hammer drills and rotary hammers) for fastening and installation tasks
• Managing kickback, vibration, and torque reaction when tightening or loosening high-tension fasteners
• Control of dust, noise, and flying debris generated by drilling and percussive fastening operations
• Use of portable electrical and battery-powered impact tools, including pre-use checks and tagging requirements
• Manual handling and ergonomic positioning to reduce strain when operating heavy or high-torque tools
• Working at height with impact wrenches and hammer drills, including tethering of tools and dropped-object prevention
• Isolation of services and verification of no live utilities prior to drilling into walls, slabs, or structural members
• Safe use of extension leads, RCDs, and power sources for corded impact and percussion tools
• Emergency procedures for tool failures, entanglement, and personal injury during fastening and drilling work

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for construction trades, steel erectors, mechanical installers, electricians, maintenance personnel, and site supervisors who plan, manage, or perform works involving impact wrenches, hammer drills, and other high torque fastening tools.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Plant in the Workplace – Guidance on safe use, inspection, and maintenance of impact wrenches, hammer drills, and other powered tools
• Code of Practice: Construction Work – Requirements for planning, supervision, and safe systems of work for construction-related fastening and drilling tasks
• Code of Practice: Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work – Controls for high noise levels generated by impact and percussion tools
• Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks – Risk management of musculoskeletal disorders from handling and operating high torque tools
• AS/NZS 3760 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment – Requirements for testing and tagging of corded impact wrenches and hammer drills
• AS/NZS 60745 Hand-held motor-operated electric tools – Safety – Safety requirements for the design and use of portable powered tools
• AS/NZS 3000 Electrical installations (Wiring Rules) – Electrical safety for supply to portable tools on site
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017