Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement

Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS Template) delivered in Microsoft Word format for easy editing.

Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement

Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)

Whether you need to get on site to start work, looking to create a safe work environment or pitching for that next big contract or government tender - the Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement is easy to customise, easy to use and integrate into your current Safety Management System. If you don't have a Safety Management System, we need to talk, seriously, you don't need to be carrying that level of risk exposure in your business - we can help.

Look, we understand that business should be rewarding and not consumed by tedious red tape. The Safe Work Method Statement Template we create is in an easy to understand format, while at the same time being some of the highest quality documents in the industry. Our SWMS documents get you onsite, save you loads of time and are very user-friendly. This way, you can get on with doing what you do best.

The Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) covers the following Job Steps, including potential hazards, control measures and risk ratings:

  1. Planning and preparation
  2. Training and capabilities
  3. Assess onsite conditions
  4. Set up work area
  5. Temporary Traffic Control (TMP)
  6. Delivery of materials and equipment
  7. Pre-start checks
  8. Setting up machine
  9. Operation
  10. Clean up
  11. Automatic and CNC lathes
  12. On completion

The Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement, includes;


Risk Assessment Matrix | Hierarchy of Controls | PPE | Emergency Response

Your Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement is ready to be used in three easy steps:

  1. Add your company logo and details to the SWMS Template.
  2. Identify site specific risks.
  3. Address any site specific risks and add them to your SWMS Template.

Your SWMS is now read to use, and may also be used as training materials for work related activities such as Workplace Inductions or WHS-OHS Toolbox Meeting Talks.

Bluesafe Quick Tips:

  1. Do not make adjustments while the machine is operating.
  2. Make sure the lathe is located in an area that has little to no traffic.
  3. Barriers should not stop employees moving work pieces on or around the lathe.

Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement

  • Detailed and pre-filled Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement.
  • Instant Delivery.
  • Fully editable Safe Work Method Statement Template.
  • Easy to customise - instructions included.
  • Referenced to Australian and NZ Standards (AS/NZS) and Legislation. 
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View a Safe Work Method Statement Example

See an example of a Safe Work Method Statement Template below. All our SWMS Template documents are comprehensive in nature, easy to use, and are a huge time saver. Our Safe Work Method Statement Templates are quick and easy to customise to your specific business or operation and are perfectly suited for every day use, for larger contracts and tenders right through to qualifying for contractor management platforms such as CM3.

What is a Safe Work Method Statement?

A SWMS is a document that outlines the high-risk construction work activities that will be performed at a workplace, the hazards that will be present as a result of these activities, and the controls that will be implemented to mitigate the risks.

A single SWMS can be utilised for numerous high-risk construction work activities, such as employing powered mobile plant, working at heights of more than 2 metres, and working near to a road that is used by traffic other than pedestrians.

A SWMS is an administrative control that is used to support higher-order controls, such as engineering controls, that are designed to remove or reduce hazards to health and safety.

A SWMS differs from other documentation such as a Job Safety Analysis or a Safe Operating Procedure in that it focuses on specific jobs or processes. A SWMS isn't meant to be a procedure; rather, it's a tool for supervisors and workers to check and monitor the workplace control measures. For high-risk work activities, a PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking)  must prepare a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) or check that one has been prepared before starting work. It is important to note that before any work process has started, a SWMS must be prepared.

A PCBU, on the other hand, also must manage health and safety hazards by eliminating or reducing them as much as possible. Before beginning any work on a project, the principal contractor must also obtain a copy of the SWMS.

What information does a Safe Work Method Statement need to contain?

A Safe Work Method Statement should identify high-risk work and any specify hazards related to high-risk construction work as well as any health and safety risks. The SWMS should describe the risk-control measures to be implemented, monitored, and reviewed and also should describe how the risk-control measures will be effective at reducing or eliminating the risk, and how they will be implemented, monitored, and reviewed.

A Safe Work Method Statement should be concise and focus on outlining the specific risks identified for the high-risk work to be performed, as well as the control measures to be implemented to ensure that the work is completed safely.

A long and overly complex Safe Work Method Statement which could be difficult to comprehend, implement and monitor or review may be confusing for workers to mentally digest and therefore is not ideal in helping to reduce or eliminate risks in the workplace. It is imperative that workers, and especially those who do not speak English, are able to understand the Safe Work Method Statement. Consider having pictures or diagrams added to the SWMS as a more effective way of presenting information contained within the SWMS.

The SWMS should also contain other regulatory requirements to protect health and safety of all personnel, such as controlling noise exposure and manual job risks. Also, keep in mind that evidence of a completed risk assessment may be required by the regulator or for auditing reasons if the Safe Work Method Statement is based on a workplace-specific risk assessment.

Who's Responsible for creating the Safe Work Method Statement?

In collaboration with workers who will be directly engaged in the activity, the person responsible for carrying out the work is usually best equipped to prepare the SWMS document. In most cases, this means that a Safe Work Method Statement is created by the builder for his or her employees, or by the subcontractor for their employees.

To establish who is in the best position to prepare the Safe Work Method Statement, the principle contractor, builder, and/or subcontractors should decide who will take responsibility for the SWMS.

It's also a requirement that all managers, contractors, supervisors, and workers be involved in the creation of a Safe Work Method Statement. Workers must be consulted so that they understand the SWMS in depth and what they must do to establish and maintain risks and implement control measures to manage the risk. Sharing information and utilising workers' knowledge and experience may also aid in ensuring that the task is completed in accordance with the SWMS.

If your workplace has a Health and Safety Representative, they should also be contacted while creating a Safe Work Method Statement.

What does the principal contractor's responsibility entail?

Before beginning work, a principal contractor must take all reasonable steps to obtain a SWMS from any contractor performing high-risk work. If no SWMS exists, the principal contractor must arrange for one to be created, for example by the contractor or subcontractor.

A general contractor should establish plans to ensure that high-risk work is carried out safely and in compliance with the Safe Work Method Statement. This can be done by keeping an eye on how the SWMS is being implemented on the ground.

The principal contractors' WHS management plan must also include detailed arrangements for collecting, assessing, monitoring, and reviewing the SWMS, according to the WHS Regulations.

How to Write a Safe Work Method Statement 

If you're looking to write your own Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement, the first step is to create the document as a Safe Work Method Statement Template. This way, you can use the same SWMS Template and then adjust the document for each different lathe metal cutting project as needed, making sure that your Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS Template addresses any site specific risks.

The fastest and most cost effective solution would be to purchase a Bluesafe Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS Template. However, if you decide to take the route of writing your own lathe metal cutting SWMS.

There are some fundamental requirements and information which you may want to consider adding to your Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS such as:

  • Details of the person(s) responsible for making sure implementation, monitoring and compliance of the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS as well as any reviews and modifications.
  • Any information detailing safety meetings or toolbox talks in relation to lathe metal cutting work, scheduled in accordance with legislative requirements to first identify any site hazards where the lathe metal cutting work is being conducted, secondly, communicate the risks and hazards and then take steps to eliminate or control each hazard in relation to the lathe metal cutting work being done.
  • Any changes added to the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS after an incident or a near miss.

Note: The Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS must be kept and be available for inspection at least until the lathe metal cutting work is completed. Where the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS is revised, all versions of the SWMS Template should be kept. If a notifiable incident occurs in relation to the Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement, the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS must be kept for a minimum of two years from the date of the incident.

Your Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement Template should list any high risk construction work, such as: 

  • Does the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS involve a risk of a person falling more than 2 meters?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out on or near pressurised gas mains or piping?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out on a telecommunication tower?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out on or near chemical, fuel or refrigerant lines?
  • Does the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS involve demolition of an element of a structure that is load-bearing?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out on or near energised electrical installations or services?
  • Does the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS involve demolition of an element related to the physical integrity of a structure?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere?
  • Does the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS involve, or is likely to involve, disturbing asbestos?
  • Does the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS involve tilt-up or precast concrete?
  • Does the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS involve structural alteration or repair that requires temporary support to prevent collapse?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out on, in or adjacent to a road, railway, shipping lane or other traffic corridor?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out in or near a confined space?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out in an area of a workplace where there is any movement of powered mobile plant?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out in/near a shaft or trench deeper than 1.5m or tunnel involving use of explosives?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out in areas with artificial extremes of temperature?
  • Is the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS carried out in or near water or other liquid that involves a risk of drowning?
  • Does the lathe metal cutting work outlined in the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS involve diving work?

Your Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement should also identify any high-risk machinery or equipment in operation near the worksite, such as: 

Your Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS should also list any Personal Protective Equipment such as: 

  • Foot Protection - Boots or closed in shoes
  • Hand Protection - Gloves
  • Head Protection - Hard hat or helmet
  • Hearing Protection - Ear plugs or ear muffs
  • Eye Protection - Safety glasses, goggles or face shields
  • Respiratory Protection - Face masks etc
  • Face Protection - Face shield, welding mask etc
  • High Visual Clothing
  • Protective Clothing - Overalls etc
  • Fall Protection - Safety harness, edge protection etc
  • Sun Protection - Sunscreen, hat etc
  • Hair and Jewellery Secured - Hair Net, etc

The Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS must be reviewed continually to ensure it remains effective and relevant. The Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS must be reviewed (and revised if necessary) if relevant control measures in relation to lathe metal cutting work are revised. The review process should be carried out in consultation with workers (including contractors and subcontractors) who maybe affected by the Lathe Metal Cutting and their health and safety representatives who represented that work group at the workplace.

When the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS has been revised, the person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure:

  1. All persons involved in the lathe metal cutting work are advised that a revision has been made and how they can access the revised Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS;
  2. Persons who will need to change a work procedure or system as a result of the review are advised of the changes in a way that will enable them to implement their duties consistently with the revised Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS; and,
  3. Workers that will be involved in the lathe metal cutting work are provided with the relevant information and instruction that will assist them to understand and implement the revised Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS.

When preparing your Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS, here are some topics you might want to also include to ensure you have covered as many risks and hazards as possible.

Planning and Preparation When Working With and Around Lathe Metal Cutting.

When writing your Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS, establish any policies, procedures and systems for working with Lathe Metal Cutting in consultation with the Principal Contractor and workers while being sure to establish:

  • Health and Safety guidelines for lathe metal cutting work
  • Emergency plans and evacuation procedures for the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS
  • Worker inductions for Lathe Metal Cutting
  • Toolbox talks (safety meetings) added to the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS
  • Outline details of supervision of the site and workers on the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS
  • Check all workers qualifications, permits and competencies for Lathe Metal Cutting operations
  • Ensure the Lathe Metal Cutting and any related equipment is functioning correctly
  • Hazard reporting procedures in place and added to the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS
  • Incident reporting procedures in place and added to the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS
  • Exclusion zones when conducting lathe metal cutting work
  • Risk Assessment for TASK completed and noted on the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS
  • Electrical NO GO ZONES identified, discussed and documented.

Assessment of Site Conditions

Thoroughly assess the work site/area conditions when working with lathe metal cutting and ensure that: 

  1. A risk assessment of the lathe metal cutting work is conducted
  2. Suitable access and adequate space to conduct lathe metal cutting work safely
  3. Consult with all stakeholders on potential hazards and risks when conducting lathe metal cutting work
  4. Consultation with all relevant workers and personnel for Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS details
  5. If conducting Lathe Metal Cutting at night, ensure there is adequate lighting
  6. Check that the work environment is suitable for lathe metal cutting work

Lathe Metal Cutting Training and Worker Qualifications

Ensure all workers have the appropriate licenses in conducting Lathe Metal Cutting as well as any qualifications that may be required for various lathe metal cutting projects before starting work. If White Cards are required, retain copies of all cards, licenses and qualifications of personnel.

All personnel must:

  1. Be trained and/or have received instructions on the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS including all safety and emergency procedures.
  2. Be qualified, knowledgeable and competent in Lathe Metal Cutting operations and lathe metal cutting work as well as all delegated tasks/responsibilities
  3. Be fully aware and understand the scope of work in relation to the Lathe Metal Cutting SWMS

Below are some examples of some Control Measures to be implemented when creating your own Lathe Metal Cutting Safe Work Method Statement Template:

  • Work area must be clean and floor must have no debris, fluids or waste.
  • Check all fluid levels such as nipples, oil cups, coolant, and transmission.
  • Remove all waste material and swarf from the moving parts of the machine.
  • Re-oil the mating faces and slides lightly after wiping the slides.
  • Ensure all controls, tailstock, tool rest, cross slide and slides are functioning properly.
  • Check the coolant level and ensure the coolant pump is functioning.
  • Before performing checks, cleaning or oiling, etc., machine must be de-energised.
  • For handling swarf, etc., wearing leather gloves is recommended.
  • For cleaning machinery, use only lint-free wipes and waste.
  • For placing large work pieces and change chucks, use the hoist or gantry.
  • Tailstock centres must operate properly after lubrication.
  • The cutting tool must be securely clamped at the correct height and angle.
  • Long, flexible work pieces must be supported with a steady rest.
  • Work piece must be securely fitted and clamped before turning on the lathe.
  • The speed and feed must be appropriate for the size and typeof task.
  • If the stock is long and protruding from the headstock, use rests to support it.
  • Ensure chuck keys have been removed from the chuck and the tool rest is away from the chuck.
  • Chucks must have the correct eyebolts.
  • Use proper sling to lift stock.
  • Wearing Type 1 footwear is recommended.
  • For handling sharp and rough edges of stock, wearing leather gloves is recommended.
  • Obstacles must have barriers around them.
  • Tools must be placed in proper trays or tool holders.
  • Avoid moving parts, use proper guards provided.
  • Operator must stand near the headstock, facing the tailstock slightly. This makes the entire operation visible from a safe location near the controls. This may not be always possible, especially when operating the slides by hand.
  • Before starting machine, ensure all parts are clear.
  • Avoid coolant splashing onto clothes and skin.
  • To remove swarf, use special tool like hook. Preferably, stop machine to clear swarf.
  • Use guards.
  • Wear eye and face protection.
  • Wearing protective overalls and hair covering is recommended.
  • When lathe is operating, do not wear gloves.
  • Before commencing cleaning, make sure to switch off and de-energise machine.
  • Waste and swarf must be removed from the machine using tools.
  • Any coolant or oil spill on the floor, duckboards and mats must be cleaned up.
  • Keys must be removed from the chuck and placed in trays or holders.
  • Re-oil the mating faces and slides lightly after wiping the slides.
  • For handling swarf, etc., wearing leather gloves is recommended.
  • For cleaning machinery, use only lint-free wipes and waste.
  • Before setting up, ensure machine is switched off and is de-energised.
  • Before any adjustments, switch off machine.
  • Adjustments and set up on automatic and CNC machines must be done only by competent and authorised persons.
  • For adjustments, use inch controls.
  • Waste and swarf must be removed from the machine using tools.
  • Never use machine if not all the guards are fitted correctly.
  • All guard interlocks must be operating properly.
  • Do not bring hands close to moving machinery.
  • For handling swarf, etc., wearing leather gloves is recommended

National: View the Model Codes of Practice for Excavation Work on Safe Work Australia's website here.
Victoria: Victoria's Code of Practice for Excavation Work may be viewed on Work Safe Victoria's website here.