Product Overview

This Thermal Imaging Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is designed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls associated with thermal imaging work on Australian worksites, particularly in electrical environments. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of Thermal Imaging SWMS activities to support robust WHS compliance and effective risk management.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Infra-red thermal imaging of live and de-energised electrical systems, switchboards, and distribution boards
• Selection and safe use of thermal imaging cameras and associated electrical testing equipment
• Pre-start inspection of equipment, cables, batteries, and lenses before commencing thermal imaging work
• Safe access to electrical rooms, plant rooms, rooftops, and restricted areas for thermal imaging inspections
• Establishing exclusion zones and barricades around live electrical equipment during imaging activities
• Lock out/tag out (LOTO) and isolation procedures where de-energisation is required prior to inspection
• Management of arc flash, electric shock, and electrocution risks while conducting thermal imaging
• Use of appropriate PPE including arc-rated clothing, face shields, insulated gloves, and eye protection
• Working in proximity to energised electrical parts, including safe approach distances and supervision
• Manual handling of thermal imaging equipment, tripods, and access equipment to minimise strain and injury
• Working at height using ladders or platforms to access elevated switchgear, cable trays, and plant
• Recording, interpreting, and reporting thermal imaging results, including handling of digital data and images
• Housekeeping, cable management, and maintaining safe egress routes around electrical installations
• Emergency response planning for electrical incidents, fire, or worker injury during thermal imaging operations

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for electrical contractors, thermographers, maintenance electricians, facilities managers, and site supervisors overseeing thermal imaging of electrical systems on Australian worksites.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Safe Work Australia – Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on controlling risks associated with electrical work and energised equipment.
• Safe Work Australia – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for hazard identification, risk assessment, and implementation of controls.
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Requirements for safe access, egress, lighting, and work conditions during inspections.
• Safe Work Australia – Construction Work Code of Practice: Applicable where thermal imaging is undertaken on construction sites or as part of construction activities.
• AS/NZS 3000 Electrical Installations (Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules): Fundamental safety requirements for electrical installations being inspected.
• AS/NZS 4836 Safe Working on or Near Low-Voltage Electrical Installations and Equipment: Procedures and PPE requirements for safe work around energised equipment.
• AS/NZS ISO 31000 Risk Management – Guidelines: Principles and guidelines for systematic risk management applied within the SWMS.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017