Free Circular Saw VOC (Verification of Competency) Template
Download our free Circular Saw VOC Template:
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Purpose of a Circular Saw VOC Document
Circular Saw VOCs are used to verify a worker’s competence in circular saw 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 Circular Saw 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
Circular saw VOCs should be completed prior to the worker operating plant or equipment within your business.
Who Should Use
Circular saw 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 circular saw?
A circular saw is a power tool with a circular blade that rotates rapidly to cut through various materials such as wood, plastic, metal, or masonry. It can be handheld or mounted on a table or a bench, and it’s commonly used in woodworking, construction, and DIY projects for tasks such as cross-cutting, rip-cutting, and bevel-cutting. Circular saws are versatile and efficient, making them essential tools in many workshops and job sites.
What is a circular saw used for?
A circular saw is primarily used for making straight cuts in wood, metal, plastic, or other materials. It consists of a flat circular blade with teeth that rotate rapidly when powered by electricity or another power source. Circular saws are commonly used in carpentry, woodworking, construction, and DIY projects for tasks such as cutting lumber, plywood, and other sheet materials to size. They are versatile tools suitable for various cutting applications, including crosscuts, rip cuts, bevel cuts, and miter cuts.
What hazards are involved in circular saw use?
Many hazards exist in circular saw operation, for example:
- Contact with Blade
- Thrown Objects
- Kickback
- Electrocution
- Noise Exposure
- Vibration
- 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 a circular saw?
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 circular saw operation, workers can complete the RTO unit https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/RIICRC319E.
Did You Know?
Did you know that circular saws are the superheroes of the workshop, the Batman of cutting tools? These powerful gadgets aren’t just for straight cuts; they’re like the caped crusaders of carpentry, slicing through wood with precision. With their whirring blades and cutting-edge technology, they’re the crime fighters of construction, turning lumber into perfectly sized pieces faster than you can say “Holy smokes, Batman!” But here’s the secret identity: they’re as versatile as a utility belt, handling everything from rip cuts to bevel cuts with ease. So, grab your safety goggles and cue the heroic music because with a circular saw in hand, you’ll be building your next project like a true DIY superhero!
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/>