Scope:

This SWMS covers the replacement of a broken WC pan and cistern in a commercial or residential building. It includes the removal of the old WC pan and cistern, installation of the new ones, and all necessary safety precautions.

Hazards and Risks:

The main hazards and risks associated with this work include:

• Slips, trips and falls due to wet surfaces or objects on the floor
• Exposure to hazardous materials, such as asbestos, if the old WC pan and cistern contain them
• Strains or sprains from lifting heavy objects, such as the WC pan and cistern
• Electrical hazards if any electrical components need to be disconnected or reconnected
• Cuts and lacerations from broken ceramic or sharp edges
• Inhalation of dust or other airborne particles during removal of old WC pan and cistern
• Inhalation of sewer gas and unpleasant odours from the toilet

Controls:

The following controls are in place to minimise the risks associated with this work:

• All workers involved in the work must be trained and competent to perform their tasks safely.
• A risk assessment must be conducted prior to commencing work, and all hazards and risks identified and addressed.
• If asbestos is present, a licensed asbestos removals must be engaged to remove and dispose of it safely.
• Workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety glasses, and dust masks.
• Adequate lighting must be provided to ensure good visibility.
• Wet floor signs and barricades must be used to prevent slips, trips and falls.
• A mechanical lift or hoist must be used to lift and move heavy objects, such as the WC pan and cistern.
• Electrical components must be isolated and locked out before any work is done on them.
• Workers must use appropriate tools, such as tile cutters or ceramic drill bits, to avoid creating sharp edges or broken pieces.
• Any dust or debris generated during the work must be cleaned up and disposed of safely.
• The area must be well-ventilated to avoid the buildup of sewer gas and unpleasant odours.

Procedure:

The following steps should be taken to replace a broken WC pan and cistern safely:

1. Isolate and lockout any electrical components that may be connected to the WC pan and cistern.
2. Turn off the water supply to the WC pan and cistern.
3. Drain any remaining water from the WC pan and cistern.
4. Remove any fixtures, such as the flush mechanism or toilet seat, that may be attached to the WC pan and cistern.
5. Remove the fixing screws or bolts that hold the WC pan and cistern in place.
6. Carefully lift the WC pan and cistern away from the wall and disconnect any remaining pipes or fittings.
7. Place the old WC pan and cistern in a safe and appropriate location for disposal.
8. Prepare the new WC pan and cistern for installation, including any necessary assembly or modification.
9. Lift the new WC pan and cistern into place and secure it to the wall using new fixing screws or bolts.
10. Reconnect any pipes or fittings that were disconnected.
11. Reinstall any fixtures that were removed, such as the flush mechanism or toilet seat.
12. Turn on the water supply to the WC pan and cistern and check for any leaks.
13. Test the flush mechanism and ensure that the WC pan and cistern are functioning properly.
14. Clean up any debris or dust generated during the work and dispose of it safely.
15. Remove any barricades or signs used to block off the area.
16. Conduct a final inspection to ensure that the work area is safe and free from hazards.
17. Record any incidents or near misses that occurred during the work.
18. Sign off on the SWMS and file it with other relevant documentation.

Conclusion:

Replacing a broken WC pan and cistern can be a straightforward task if the proper precautions and procedures are followed. By using this Safe Work Method Statement, workers can ensure their safety and the safety of others while completing the work efficiently and effectively. It is important to remember to conduct a risk assessment prior to commencing work and to implement all necessary controls to minimize the risks associated with the work. By doing so, workers can complete the task safely and without incident.