Brick Air Press Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)

1. Crushing hazard from the heavy machinery and equipment used for the installation.
2. Slips, trips, and falls while working at heights or on uneven surfaces.
3. Electrical hazards from the use of power tools and machinery.
4. Manual handling hazards from lifting and carrying heavy loads.
5. Noise hazards from the use of power tools and machinery.
6. Fire hazards from the use of flammable materials and equipment.
7. Exposure to airborne dust and debris from the brick cutting and installation process.

Risk Assessment:

The following risk assessment has been conducted:

1. Crushing hazard: Risk level – High. Control measures – All workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, high visibility clothing, and steel-toe boots. Barricades and warning signs must be used to prevent workers from entering the work area. Only authorised personnel should operate the heavy machinery and equipment.
2. Slips, trips, and falls: Risk level – Medium. Control measures – Workers must wear appropriate PPE, including non-slip footwear. Safety harnesses must be used when working at heights. Work areas must be kept clean and clear of debris, and appropriate signage should be used to warn workers of any hazards.
3. Electrical hazards: Risk level – Medium. Control measures – Only qualified electricians should operate the power tools and machinery. All equipment must be regularly inspected and maintained. Electrical cords and equipment must be kept dry and away from water sources.
4. Manual handling hazards: Risk level – High. Control measures – Workers must be trained in proper lifting and carrying techniques. Mechanical aids such as cranes and forklifts should be used to reduce manual handling risks where possible. Workers must wear appropriate PPE, including back support belts.
5. Noise hazards: Risk level – Medium. Control measures – Workers must wear appropriate PPE, including earplugs or earmuffs. The noise levels of the power tools and machinery must be regularly monitored to ensure they do not exceed the recommended exposure limits.
6. Fire hazards: Risk level – Low. Control measures – Only non-flammable materials and equipment should be used. Appropriate fire extinguishers must be located nearby in case of emergencies.
7. Exposure to airborne dust and debris: Risk level – High. Control measures – Workers must wear appropriate PPE, including dust masks and safety goggles. The work area must be well ventilated to minimise exposure to airborne dust and debris.

Safe Work Procedures:

The following safe work procedures must be followed:

1. All workers must be trained and competent in the use of the equipment and tools required for the installation.
2. Appropriate PPE must be worn at all times.
3. A safety briefing must be conducted before work commences to identify any hazards and ensure all workers are aware of the control measures in place.
4. The work area must be cordoned off with barricades and warning signs to prevent unauthorised personnel from entering the area.
5. Heavy machinery and equipment must be operated only by authorised personnel.
6. Workers must follow proper lifting and carrying techniques to minimise the risk of manual handling injuries.
7. Workers must work on stable and even surfaces.
8. Electrical cords and equipment must be kept dry and away from water sources.
9. The noise levels of the power tools and machinery must be regularly monitored to ensure they do not exceed the recommended exposure limits.
10. The work area must be kept clean and clear of debris.
11. All materials and equipment must be stored safely and securely.
12. All waste and debris must be disposed of in an appropriate manner.
13. Workers must report any incidents, near-misses, or hazards to their supervisor immediately.
14. In case of an emergency, workers must know the location of the nearest fire extinguisher and first aid kit.

Emergency Procedures:

The following emergency procedures must be followed in case of an emergency:

1. All workers must be familiar with the emergency evacuation plan.
2. Workers must know the location of the nearest fire extinguisher and first aid kit.
3. In case of a fire, workers must evacuate the area immediately and call emergency services.
4. In case of an injury, workers must provide first aid and call emergency services.
5. Workers must follow the instructions of their supervisor or emergency services personnel.