Free Angle Grinder VOC (Verification of Competency) Template
Download our free Angle Grinder VOC Template:
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Purpose of an Angle Grinder VOC Document
Angle grinder VOCs are used to verify a worker’s competence in angle grinder 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 Angle Grinder 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
Angle grinder VOCs should be completed prior to the worker operating plant or equipment within your business.
Who Should Use
Angle grinder 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 an angle grinder?
An angle grinder is a handheld power tool used for grinding, cutting, and polishing various materials such as metal, stone, tile, and concrete. It typically features a rotating abrasive disc or wheel that can be adjusted to different angles, allowing for versatile use in construction, metalworking, and fabrication tasks. Angle grinders are known for their versatility, efficiency, and ability to perform a wide range of tasks with different attachments and accessories.
What is an angle grinder used for?
An angle grinder is a versatile power tool used primarily for grinding, cutting, polishing, and shaping various materials such as metal, stone, concrete, and tile. It features a motor-driven rotating abrasive disc or wheel that can be adjusted to different angles, allowing for precise and efficient material removal. Angle grinders are commonly used in construction, metalworking, fabrication, and DIY projects for tasks such as removing rust, cutting metal pipes, smoothing welds, and shaping surfaces.
What hazards are involved in angle grinder use?
Many hazards exist in angle grinder operation, for example:
- Abrasive Wheel Breakage
- Struck-By Accidents
- Electrocution
- Kickback
- Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
- Noise Exposure
- Dust 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 an angle grinder?
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 angle grinder operation, workers can complete the RTO unit https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/RIICRC319E.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the angle grinder is the Aussie tradie’s secret weapon, the Crocodile Dundee of power tools? These bad boys are like the Swiss Army knives of construction, slicing through metal like a hot knife through Vegemite. With their roaring motors and spinning discs, they’re the thunder down under, making even the toughest jobs a breeze. But here’s the fair dinkum truth: they’re not just tough; they’re as versatile as a kangaroo in a boxing ring! From cutting to grinding to polishing, the angle grinder does it all, mate.
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/>