Product Overview

This Knives and Cutters Industrial Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides a structured approach to identifying hazards and implementing controls when using industrial knives, box cutters and similar cutting tools, with the primary goal of maintaining a safe workplace and achieving WHS compliance. It is a comprehensive document covering multiple aspects of industrial knife and cutter safety, from selection and inspection through to safe operation, storage and emergency response.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe use of sharp knives for cutting, trimming and scoring materials in industrial and warehouse environments
• Utilisation of box cutters and retractable knives for opening cartons, packaging and shrink wrap
• Selection of appropriate knife or cutter type, blade length and handle design for the task
• Inspection of knives, cutters and blades prior to use, including checking blade condition and locking mechanisms
• Safe cutting techniques to minimise the risk of lacerations, puncture wounds and slips (cutting direction, body positioning and securing workpieces)
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as cut-resistant gloves, protective clothing and safety eyewear
• Control of manual handling risks associated with repetitive cutting tasks and awkward postures
• Housekeeping and management of offcuts, packaging waste and discarded blades to prevent trip and cut hazards
• Safe storage, transport and issue of knives and cutters, including lockable storage and sign-out procedures
• Blade changing, sharpening and disposal of used blades using approved containers and methods
• Supervision, training and competency requirements for workers using knives and cutters
• Emergency response procedures for cuts and lacerations, including first aid and incident reporting

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for warehousing and logistics operations, manufacturing and processing facilities, retail and distribution centres, construction and fit-out crews, and site supervisors responsible for workers using industrial knives and box cutters.

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
• How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Guidance on identifying hazards, assessing risks and implementing controls for knife and cutter use
• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for safe work areas, lighting, storage and amenities where cutting tasks are performed
• Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice: Risk management principles for repetitive cutting, forceful exertions and awkward postures
• First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on first aid provisions and response for lacerations and related injuries
• Safe Use of Machinery and Equipment (Plant) guidance material: General principles for safe use, inspection and maintenance of hand tools and cutting equipment