Important: This SWMS template is provided as a starting point only. It must be reviewed and customised to reflect the specific conditions, hazards, and controls for your workplace and task. The PCBU remains responsible for ensuring the SWMS is suitable for the specific work. This template does not constitute legal advice. Refer to your state or territory WHS regulator for compliance requirements.

Welding & Hot Work

Angle Grinding — Safe Work Method Statement

Safe Work Method Statement for angle grinding operations including cutting, grinding, and surface preparation using handheld and bench-mounted angle grinders, in compliance with Australian WHS legislation and AS/NZS 4024.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Full face shield (minimum AS/NZS 1337)Safety glasses worn underneath face shieldClass 5 cut-resistant glovesP2 disposable respiratorHearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs, minimum SLC80 20)Steel-capped safety bootsLong sleeve high-visibility or work shirt

High Risk Construction Work Types

•Work in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere

Risk Assessment

1.Disc and grinder inspection before use

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Disc disintegration causing projectile injuries	Catastrophic	Inspect all grinding and cutting discs before fitting for cracks, chips, delamination, or damage. Check the maximum RPM rating printed on the disc is equal to or greater than the grinder's no-load speed. Verify the disc has a current manufacture date (most discs expire 3 years from manufacture). Perform a ring test on vitrified wheels. Never use a disc that has been dropped or struck. Fit the correct flange and backing pad for the disc type. Conduct a 60-second test run at full speed in a protected area before commencing work.	Moderate	Operator
Electric shock or tool failure from damaged grinder	High	Inspect the grinder's body, power cord, plug, and guard before each use. Remove from service any grinder with damaged insulation, cracked housing, defective guard, or inoperable trigger safety switch. Ensure the grinder is connected via an RCD-protected circuit. Confirm the guard is correctly positioned to deflect sparks and fragments away from the operator. Never operate a grinder with the guard removed. Record and tag equipment that is removed from service.	Low	Operator

2.Setting up the workpiece and work area

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Fire from grinding sparks igniting combustible materials	High	Clear all combustible materials (timber, cardboard, plastics, flammable liquids) within a 3-metre radius before grinding. Shield immovable combustibles with fire-resistant welding blankets. Identify any cable trays, plastic conduit, or pipe insulation that could be ignited. Position the workpiece so sparks are directed away from personnel and combustibles. Issue a hot work permit if grinding in an area with fire risk. Have a fire extinguisher accessible within 5 metres.	Moderate	Operator / Site Supervisor
Workpiece movement causing loss of control of grinder	High	Secure the workpiece using clamps, a vice, or by other positive mechanical means before grinding. Do not rely on another person to hold the workpiece during grinding. Ensure the work surface is stable and the workpiece cannot shift, rock, or fall during the operation. Set up cutting operations so cut-off pieces fall safely and do not trap or pinch the disc. Use appropriate work supports for long or heavy material.	Low	Operator

3.Grinding and cutting operations

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Laceration or amputation from disc contact	Catastrophic	Maintain a two-handed firm grip on the grinder at all times using both the primary handle and the side handle. Never remove the side handle. Keep the grinder guard positioned between the disc and the operator's body at all times. Never use a cutting disc for grinding or vice versa. Do not use excessive force — allow the disc to do the work. Engage the disc spindle lock only when the disc has completely stopped rotating. Position bystanders outside the spark exclusion zone (minimum 3 metres).	Moderate	Operator
Hearing damage from sustained grinder noise	High	Angle grinders typically produce 95–105 dB(A). Hearing protection rated minimum SLC80 20 (earplugs or earmuffs) must be worn by the operator and all workers within 5 metres. Limit continuous grinding sessions to 30-minute intervals with 10-minute breaks away from the noise source. Where practicable, schedule high-noise grinding during times when fewer workers are nearby. Erect noise barriers for prolonged grinding operations.	Low	Operator / Site Supervisor
Silica dust inhalation during concrete or masonry grinding	High	When grinding concrete, masonry, or stone, use a diamond cup wheel with an integrated vacuum shroud connected to a HEPA-filtered dust extraction unit. As a minimum, wear a P2 respirator; if dry grinding without extraction is unavoidable, use a supplied-air respirator. Wet grinding with continuous water suppression is preferred where the tool and workpiece permit. Prohibit dry sweeping of grinding residue — use wet mopping or vacuum with HEPA filter. Establish a restricted entry zone to prevent unauthorised exposure.	Moderate	Operator / Safety Officer

4.Post-operation cleanup and disc removal

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Burns from contact with hot workpiece or disc	Moderate	Allow the grinder disc and workpiece to cool before touching. Grinding discs can reach several hundred degrees Celsius during operation. Use thermal-indicating stickers or chalk on workpieces to confirm safe handling temperature. Do not place a hot grinder on or near flammable surfaces. Dispose of used or damaged grinding discs in a designated sharps/metal waste bin, not in general waste. Wear cut-resistant gloves when removing and handling used discs.	Low	Operator

Relevant Codes of Practice

Worker Acknowledgement

By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to comply with this Safe Work Method Statement.

Name: ___________________Date: ___________________