Introducing our Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) Template for working with a reciprocating saw – a helpful tool to ensure that your workplace is safe and compliant with legal requirements. This pre-filled and comprehensive template is fully editable and customisable in Microsoft Word format, making it easy to modify and tailor to your specific needs.
Here are some key features of our SWMS template:
- Pre-filled and Comprehensive: Our SWMS template includes a comprehensive range of information to help you create a complete and thorough SWMS, so you can ensure that all potential hazards have been identified and assessed, and that all necessary controls have been implemented to minimise risks.
- Fully editable and customisable: You can easily modify and tailor the SWMS template to suit your specific workplace requirements. Our template is available in Microsoft Word format, making it simple to add or remove sections, change content or formatting, and adjust the SWMS to meet your needs.
- Includes the scope of the project and project details: Our SWMS template includes a clear and concise description of the scope of the project, along with other project details such as location, duration, and personnel involved.
- Checklist of high-risk machinery on site: We have included a checklist of all high-risk machinery and equipment that may be present on the site, ensuring that potential hazards associated with these items are identified and controlled.
- Space for recording staff training: Our SWMS template includes a section to record the training that staff have received, to ensure that everyone is adequately trained and competent to carry out the work safely.
- Before and after risk ratings: Our template includes space to record the risk ratings before and after implementing the SWMS, giving you a clear indication of the effectiveness of the controls you have put in place.
- Resources for legislative references: Our SWMS template includes resources for legislative references to help you ensure that you are meeting legal requirements and standards.
- Includes all PPE required: We have included a list of all personal protective equipment (PPE) required for the job, so that workers are adequately protected while carrying out the work.
- Risk assessment and risk assessment matrix: Our SWMS template includes a risk assessment and risk assessment matrix to help you identify potential hazards and evaluate the level of risk associated with them.
- Checklist to ensure all requirements are covered: Our SWMS template includes a checklist to ensure that all requirements have been covered when implementing the SWMS, helping you to ensure that the work is carried out safely and efficiently.
- Sign-off page for all workers and responsible persons: Our template includes a sign-off page for all workers and responsible persons, so that everyone is aware of their responsibilities and has agreed to follow the SWMS.
- Easy to use, easy to customise: Our SWMS template is easy to use and customise, allowing you to quickly create a complete and thorough SWMS that meets your specific workplace requirements.
- Suitable for large contracts and Tenders, including tier 1 contractual work: Our SWMS template is suitable for use on large contracts and tenders, including tier 1 contractual work.
- Instantly delivered download: Our SWMS template is available as an instantly delivered download, so you can get started on creating your SWMS right away.
With our SWMS template for using a reciprocating saw, you can ensure that your workplace is safe, compliant with legal requirements, and that risks are minimised. Our template is designed to be comprehensive, easy to use, and fully customisable, making it a helpful tool for any workplace.
Here is some safety information regarding to working with a reciprocating saw.
Hazards and Risks:
Hazards and risks associated with the use of a reciprocating saw include:
- Lacerations and amputations due to the sharp blade
- Eye injuries due to flying debris
- Hearing loss due to the high noise level
- Electrocution if the saw is used in wet or damp conditions
- Strain injuries from prolonged use
Controls:
- PPE:
All workers must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including eye protection, ear muffs or ear plugs, gloves and sturdy footwear.
- Inspection and Maintenance:
Ensure the saw is inspected and maintained regularly to ensure it is in good working order.
- Site preparation:
Ensure the work area is clean and free from trip hazards and that there is adequate lighting. Do not operate the saw in wet or damp conditions.
- Safe use:
a) Secure the workpiece firmly in place. b) Use the appropriate blade for the job. c) Keep the saw blade perpendicular to the workpiece. d) Use both hands to operate the saw. e) Use a saw guide or straight edge when making long cuts. f) Do not force the saw, let the blade do the work. g) Keep fingers and loose clothing away from the blade. h) Turn off the saw and unplug it before changing the blade. i) Do not leave the saw unattended when it is plugged in.
- Emergency procedures:
All workers should be aware of emergency procedures and locations of emergency equipment such as first aid kits and fire extinguishers.
Gary’s Safety Tips 
Hey, everybody! Today, I want to talk about a tool that is commonly used in the workplace, but can also be quite dangerous if not handled with care – the reciprocating saw.