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

MIG Welding — Safe Work Method Statement

Safe Work Method Statement for MIG (Metal Inert Gas / GMAW) welding operations on construction sites and in workshops. Applicable to welding of mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium using gas-shielded wire feed process.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet (min. shade 10)Welding Gloves (leather)Welding Jacket or Leather ApronSafety Boots (Steel Capped)Respiratory Protection (welding fume rated, P2 minimum)Safety Glasses (under helmet)Hearing Protection

High Risk Construction Work Types

•Area in which there is any movement of powered mobile plant

Risk Assessment

1.Work area preparation and fire prevention

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Fire or explosion from ignition of flammable materials	Catastrophic	Hot work permit obtained. Remove or shield all flammable materials within 10 m of welding area. Fire extinguisher and fire blankets within reach. Fire watch maintained for 30 minutes after welding ceases. Inspect for smouldering materials.	Low	Welder / Site Supervisor
Welding sparks igniting combustibles in adjacent areas	High	Welding screens/curtains erected to contain spatter. Wet down timber floors and combustible surfaces. Cover floor penetrations with fire-rated material.	Low	Welder

2.Equipment inspection and set-up

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Electric shock from damaged welding equipment	Catastrophic	Inspect welder, leads and torch before use. Check for damaged insulation, cracked connectors. Use RCD-protected power supply. Do not use damaged equipment — tag out and report. Earth clamp secured to workpiece.	Low	Welder
Shielding gas cylinder falling and causing injury or valve damage	High	Cylinders secured in approved stand or chained to fixed structure. Valve cap on when not in use. Trolley used when moving cylinders. No cylinders near sources of heat.	Low	Welder

3.Welding operations

Hazard / Risk	Initial Risk	Control Measures	Residual Risk	Responsibility
Eye injury from UV radiation (arc eye) to bystanders	High	Welding screens erected around work area. Warning signs posted. Bystanders to not look at arc. All workers within 10 m to wear appropriate eye protection.	Low	Welder / Site Supervisor
Respiratory exposure to welding fume	High	Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) to capture fume at source where possible. Ensure adequate general ventilation. Welding fume respirator worn at all times. No welding in confined spaces without continuous forced air ventilation.	Low	Welder
Burns from hot metal or spatter	Moderate	Full leather PPE worn. Allow workpiece to cool before handling — use temperature stick or infrared thermometer. Mark hot metal with "HOT" chalk. Do not hold workpiece with bare hands.	Low	Welder

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: ___________________