Product Overview

This Table Saw SWMS is a site-ready Safe Work Method Statement designed to identify hazards and implement controls for the safe use of table saws on Australian worksites, supporting strong WHS compliance. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of table saw operation and maintenance, from setup and cutting techniques through to housekeeping and emergency response.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe selection, inspection and setup of table saws prior to use
• Use of table saws for ripping, cross-cutting and bevel cutting of timber and sheet products
• Guarding arrangements, riving knives, anti-kickback devices and push sticks to minimise contact with the blade
• Management of kickback risks, binding of material and uncontrolled movement of workpieces
• Correct positioning of operators, body stance and hand placement during cutting operations
• Electrical safety controls including power supply, leads, isolation and lock-out/tag-out procedures
• Control of dust, chips and offcuts, including use of extraction systems and housekeeping practices
• Noise and vibration risk management, including selection and use of appropriate hearing protection
• Selection, use and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as eye, face and hand protection
• Safe handling, lifting and support of large or awkward sheets and long lengths of timber
• Maintenance, blade changes, cleaning and adjustment of table saws in accordance with manufacturer instructions
• Emergency procedures for blade contact, entanglement, electric shock, fire and other incidents

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for carpenters, joiners, cabinet makers, shopfitters, construction contractors, maintenance teams and site supervisors who manage or operate table saws on Australian worksites.

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 table saws and other fixed plant
• Code of Practice: Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work – controls for noise exposure from powered saws
• Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks – risk management framework applied to table saw tasks
• Code of Practice: Managing the risk of falls at workplaces – relevant where table saw work involves elevated platforms or uneven surfaces
• AS/NZS 4024 Safety of machinery (relevant parts) – principles for guarding, emergency stops and safe operation of machinery
• AS/NZS 3760 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment – guidance for testing and tagging of portable electrical tools and leads
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017