Product Overview

This Non-Destructive Testing Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls for NDT activities across Australian worksites. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of Non-Destructive Testing to support robust WHS compliance and safe inspection practices.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Planning and preparation of non-destructive testing works, including site-specific risk assessments and permits
• Safe performance of general Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) activities using approved procedures and calibrated equipment
• Corrosion testing on structural steel, pipelines, tanks, and plant to identify wall loss and pitting without damaging assets
• Material testing with strong magnetic fields, including Magnetic Particle Testing (MT/MPI) and associated exposure controls
• Management of risks from strong magnetic fields to protect workers with medical implants, electronic devices, and sensitive equipment
• Performing radiography testing and inspections, including X-ray and gamma-ray methods with strict radiation safety controls
• Establishing and maintaining exclusion zones for radiography work to prevent unauthorised access and over-exposure
• Handling, storage, and transport of radioactive sources and radiography equipment in line with regulatory requirements
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), monitoring devices, and dosimetry for NDT and radiography personnel
• Safe use of ladders, platforms, and access equipment when conducting NDT on elevated or difficult-to-reach structures
• Control of environmental factors such as heat, cold, wind, and poor lighting that may affect NDT accuracy and worker safety
• Housekeeping, traffic management, and cordoning-off of work areas to protect other workers and the public during testing
• Emergency response procedures for radiation incidents, equipment failure, exposure concerns, and medical emergencies

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for NDT technicians, radiography and inspection contractors, engineering and maintenance teams, and site supervisors overseeing Non-Destructive Testing activities on Australian worksites.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on identifying, assessing, and controlling risks from hazardous substances used in NDT processes.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work Code of Practice: Controls for noise generated by NDT equipment and associated plant.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for safe access, lighting, amenities, and environmental conditions during testing.
• Safe Work Australia – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for hazard identification, risk assessment, and implementation of control measures.
• Safe Work Australia – Radiation Protection guidance material: Principles for managing ionising radiation risks in industrial radiography and NDT.
• AS/NZS ISO 31000 Risk Management – Guidelines: Best-practice approach to risk management applied to NDT operations.
• AS/NZS 2243 Safety in Laboratories (where applicable): Guidance for NDT and material testing conducted in laboratory environments.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017