Free Heat Gun VOC (Verification of Competency) Template
Download our free Heat Gun VOC Template:
*For internal use only. Not for resale or redistribution. By downloading, you agree to our Free Resources Licensing Agreement.
Purpose of a Heat Gun VOC Document
Heat Gun VOCs are used to verify a worker’s competence in heat gun use. The primary goal is to protect workers from injury or illness through effective training and competency procedures. This form is broadly aligned with AS45001:2018.
How to Use
This Heat Gun VOC should be completed by a competent person in consultation with the trainee who will use the plant.
This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that may need to be considered include, but are not limited to, ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
Heat Gun VOCs should be completed prior to the worker operating plant or equipment within your business.
Who Should Use
Heat Gun VOCs must be completed by someone who is familiar with operation of the piece of plant or equipment. This person should also be competent in training and assessment methods.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to complete a documented Verification of Competency (VOC). However, it is best practice. Completing a thorough Verification of Competency can help meet general legal duties, including:
- s(19)(3)c WHS Act – Duty to Provide Safe Systems of Work
- s(19)(3)d WHS Act – Duty to Ensure Safe Use of Plant
- s(19)(3)f WHS Act – Duty to Provide Adequate Information, Training, Instruction and Supervision
- s(203) WHS Regulations – Management of Risks to Health and Safety (PCBUs with management or control of plant)
The Code of Practice “Managing risks of plant in the workplace” states that employers (PCBUs) must ensure workers are trained and have the appropriate skills to carry out a particular task safely.
FAQ
What is a heat gun?
A heat gun is a handheld tool that emits a stream of hot air when powered on. It is primarily used for applications requiring heat, such as stripping paint, thawing frozen pipes, shrinking heat shrink tubing, bending plastic pipes or sheets, removing stickers or decals, and loosening adhesives or fasteners. Heat guns are versatile tools commonly used in construction, automotive repair, crafting, and DIY projects. They typically have adjustable temperature settings and come with various nozzle attachments for different applications.
What is a heat gun used for?
A heat gun is primarily used for applying heat to various materials to soften, shape, or remove them. It generates a stream of hot air at adjustable temperatures, typically between 100°C to 650°C (212°F to 1202°F), depending on the model. Heat guns are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including paint stripping, plastic welding, soldering, thawing frozen pipes, shrinking heat-shrink tubing, removing decals or stickers, and bending or molding plastics. They are versatile tools found in construction, automotive repair, electronics, crafting, and DIY projects.
What hazards are involved in heat gun use?
Many hazards exist in heat gun operation, for example:
- Burns
- Fire Hazard
- Electrocution
- Skin and Eye Irritation
- Fumes and Vapor
- Inhalation
- Overheating
- Noise Exposure
To mitigate these hazards, proper training, adherence to safety protocols, regular equipment maintenance, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and thorough site inspections are essential.
Do you need training to operate a heat gun?
In general, the level of training provided to workers must take into consideration “the nature of the work, the nature of the risks and the control measures required” – WHS regulations s(39). That is, for plant that poses no or minimal risks, there may be very little training required. As the risks of the plant increases, the requirement for training also increases.
To demonstrate competence in heat gun operation, workers can complete the RTO unit https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/RIICRC319E.
Did You Know?
During the war, engineers and scientists were faced with the challenge of removing old paint and decals from aircraft, as well as repairing and maintaining sensitive electrical components in confined spaces. Traditional methods like scraping or using chemical solvents posed limitations and potential risks. To address these challenges, the heat gun was born. It was initially created to provide a controlled and precise application of heat for aircraft maintenance and repair tasks. By directing hot air onto surfaces, the heat gun could soften and loosen paint, adhesive, and other materials without causing damage.
Article Sources and Further Reading
Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/model-code-practice-managing-risks-plant-workplace>
Plant (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/plant>
What is a PCBU? (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/what-is-a-pcbu/>