Product Overview

This Abrasive Blasting and Coating Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and define clear control measures for safe blasting and coating activities on Australian worksites. It is a comprehensive document that supports contractors and PCBU’s in achieving WHS compliance and managing the full lifecycle of abrasive blasting and protective coating tasks.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Planning and preparation of abrasive blasting and coating work areas, including barricading, signage, and exclusion zones
• Selection, inspection, and safe use of abrasive blasting equipment, hoses, nozzles, and associated plant
• Operation of compressed air systems and pressure vessels used for blasting, including pre-start checks and pressure control
• Management of dust, overspray, and airborne contaminants through ventilation, extraction, and enclosure methods
• Use, fitting, and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment (RPE), hearing protection, eye and face protection, and protective clothing
• Surface preparation of steel, concrete, and other substrates prior to coating application
• Safe mixing, handling, and application of paints, primers, epoxies, and other protective coatings, including use of spray equipment
• Control of flammable and combustible substances, including safe storage and handling of solvents and thinners
• Working at heights during blasting and coating activities, including use of scaffolds, EWP’s, and fall protection systems
• Environmental controls to minimise release of blasting media, dust, and chemicals to surrounding areas, soil, and waterways
• Waste management, including collection, containment, and disposal of spent abrasive, paint waste, and contaminated materials
• Inspection, quality checks, and verification of coating thickness and surface profile while maintaining safe work practices
• Emergency response procedures for equipment failure, exposure to hazardous substances, fire, and medical incidents

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for abrasive blasters, industrial painters, protective coating contractors, steel fabrication and maintenance crews, and site supervisors overseeing blasting and coating works.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance for safe storage, handling, and use of paints, solvents, and other hazardous chemicals
• Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work Code of Practice: Requirements for controlling noise from blasting equipment and compressors
• Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice: Controls for working at heights during blasting and coating activities
• Spray Painting and Powder Coating Code of Practice: Specific guidance for spraying coatings and managing overspray and vapours
• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for ventilation, amenities, and general work environment
• Confined Spaces Code of Practice: Applicable where abrasive blasting or coating is undertaken within tanks, vessels, or other confined spaces
• AS/NZS 1715 Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment: Guidance for correct selection and maintenance of RPE for blasting and coating
• AS/NZS 1716 Respiratory Protective Devices: Performance requirements for respirators used during abrasive blasting
• AS/NZS 2161 Occupational Protective Gloves: Requirements for hand protection against abrasives and chemicals
• AS/NZS 1337 Eye and Face Protectors for Occupational Applications: Standards for eye and face protection against dust and particles
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017