Product Overview

This Jig Saw Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a site-ready safety document designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls when operating powered jig saws on Australian worksites. It is a comprehensive, task-specific SWMS that supports WHS compliance and safe use of jig saw machines across multiple cutting and finishing applications.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe setup, inspection, and running of jig saw machines prior to commencement of cutting tasks
• Selection of appropriate blades for different materials (timber, plastics, light metals, laminates) and cutting requirements
• Use of guards, blade covers, and other engineering controls to minimise contact with moving parts
• Management of electrical risks including power leads, plug connections, RCDs, and wet area exclusions
• Securing and supporting workpieces to prevent movement, kickback, or binding during cutting
• Control of dust, chips, and debris using extraction, on-tool dust collection, and good housekeeping practices
• Use of correct body positioning, grip, and feed pressure to maintain control of the jig saw and prevent loss of balance
• Noise management and selection of suitable hearing protection where exposure limits may be exceeded
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, gloves (where appropriate), and protective footwear
• Manual handling of materials and jig saws, including safe lifting, carrying, and bench-height setup
• Safe cutting near services such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and hidden fixtures in walls, floors, and ceilings
• Management of fire risks when cutting near flammable materials or using the jig saw in confined or poorly ventilated areas
• Isolation, tagging, and removal from service of damaged or defective jig saws and accessories
• Emergency procedures for injuries, electric shock, eye injuries, and exposure to dust or flying particles

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for carpenters, shopfitters, maintenance personnel, construction trades, and site supervisors overseeing the use of jig saws on residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace – Guidance on safe use, guarding, and maintenance of powered tools and machinery
• Code of Practice: Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work – Requirements for noise risk assessment and hearing protection
• Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks – Framework for hazard identification, risk assessment, and control implementation
• Code of Practice: Construction work – WHS obligations for construction activities involving powered hand tools
• AS/NZS 3760: In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment – Guidance for testing and tagging of portable electrical jig saws
• AS/NZS 60745 (Hand-held motor-operated electric tools – Safety) – Safety requirements for powered hand tools such as jig saws
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017