Product Overview

This Power Tools Electric Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is designed to identify hazards and implement effective controls when using electric-powered tools on Australian worksites, helping you maintain strong WHS compliance. It is a comprehensive document covering multiple aspects of electric power tool safety, from selection and pre-start checks through to operation, maintenance, and storage.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Selection of appropriate electric power tools for the task, including rated capacity and suitability for the work environment
• Pre-start inspection of power tools, cords, plugs, guards, switches, and safety features before use
• Safe use of corded drills, impact drivers, grinders, sanders, and similar handheld tools
• Operation of electric saws (e.g. circular saws, jigsaws, reciprocating saws) with correct guarding and cutting techniques
• Management of trailing leads, extension cords, and power boards to prevent trips, entanglement, and damage
• Use of Residual Current Devices (RCDs) and testing procedures to minimise electric shock risk
• Controls for working with power tools in wet, damp, or outdoor environments
• Safe work practices to manage noise, vibration, flying debris, and dust generated by electric tools
• Use, maintenance, and replacement of cutting and abrasive accessories such as discs, blades, and bits
• Lock-out, tagging, and isolation procedures for faulty or unsafe power tools and equipment
• Housekeeping controls for work areas where electric tools are used, including cable routing and waste removal
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements such as eye, hearing, respiratory, and hand protection
• Safe storage, transport, and security of electric power tools on vehicles, in workshops, and on construction sites

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for carpenters, electricians, plumbers, maintenance personnel, construction workers, workshop operators, and site supervisors who manage or use electric power tools on Australian worksites.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace – guidance on safe use of powered plant including hand-held tools
• Model Code of Practice: Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work – controls for noise generated by electric power tools
• Model Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks – risk management framework applied to electric tool use
• AS/NZS 3760: In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment – guidance for testing and tagging portable electrical equipment and RCDs
• AS/NZS 3012: Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites – requirements for electrical safety on construction sites
• AS/NZS 60745 (series): Hand-held motor-operated electric tools – Safety – safety requirements for hand-held electric tools
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017