Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for Air Compressors is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls for the safe installation, operation, inspection, and maintenance of air compressor systems on site. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of Air Compressor SWMS activities to support robust WHS compliance and effective risk management.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Inspection, testing, and safe operation of air receivers, including pressure relief devices and isolation valves
• Carrying out pre-start compressor checks, including oil levels, belts, guards, hoses, and electrical supply
• Safe procedures for compressor replacement, including isolation, depressurisation, disconnection, removal, and installation
• Planning and running compressed air lines to minimise trip hazards, mechanical damage, and unintended disconnection
• Unblocking a compressed air line using controlled depressurisation, lock-out/tag-out, and safe clearing methods
• Selection, use, and inspection of hoses, fittings, regulators, and quick-connect couplings for compressed air systems
• Management of noise exposure from compressors, including positioning, acoustic controls, and hearing protection
• Control of stored energy and pressure hazards, including over-pressurisation, hose whip, and component failure
• Electrical safety for powered compressors, including RCD use, cord management, and verification of supply
• Housekeeping around compressor units to maintain clear access, ventilation, and emergency egress
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as eye protection, gloves, hearing protection, and respiratory protection where required
• Emergency response procedures for compressor failures, hose bursts, leaks, and fire or explosion risks

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for mechanical contractors, construction and maintenance crews, manufacturing and workshop operators, and site supervisors responsible for the safe use and servicing of air compressors and compressed air systems.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on managing risks associated with plant such as air compressors and receivers.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work Code of Practice: Controls for noise generated by compressors and associated equipment.
• Safe Work Australia – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for hazard identification, risk assessment, and control implementation.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for safe layout, ventilation, access, and amenities around compressor installations.
• AS 1210 Pressure Vessels: Requirements for the design and safety of pressure vessels such as air receivers.
• AS/NZS 1200 Pressure Equipment: General requirements for pressure equipment used in compressed air systems.
• AS/NZS 3012 Electrical Installations – Construction and Demolition Sites: Electrical safety requirements for portable and fixed compressors on construction sites.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017