Free Mitre Saw VOC (Verification of Competency) Template
Download our free Mitre Saw VOC Template:
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Purpose of a Mitre Saw VOC Document
Mitre Saw VOCs are used to verify a worker’s competence in Mitre 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 Mitre 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
Mitre Saw VOCs should be completed prior to the worker operating plant or equipment within your business.
Who Should Use
Mitre 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 mitre saw?
A mitre saw, also known as a chop saw or drop saw, is a power tool used primarily for making accurate crosscuts and mitre cuts in wood, metal, or plastic. It features a circular saw blade mounted on a pivoting arm, which allows the blade to be angled and lowered onto the material being cut. Mitre saws are commonly used in woodworking, carpentry, and DIY projects for tasks such as cutting molding, trim, framing, and other precision cuts requiring angled or beveled edges. They are essential tools for achieving precise and consistent cuts in various materials.
What is a mitre saw used for?
A mitre saw, also known as a mitre saw, is primarily used for making precise angled cuts in wood, metal, or other materials. It features a circular saw blade mounted on a pivoting arm that can be adjusted to various angles, typically ranging from 45 degrees to 90 degrees. Mitre saws are commonly used in woodworking, carpentry, and framing projects for tasks such as cutting trim, molding, picture frames, and angled joints with accuracy and consistency. They are essential tools for achieving clean and precise cuts at different angles.
What hazards are involved in mitre saw use?
Many hazards exist in mitre saw operation, for example:
- Contact with Blade
- Struck-By Accidents
- Electrocution
- Kickback
- Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
- Noise Exposure
- Eye Injuries
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 mitre 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 Mitre saw operation, workers can complete the RTO unit https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/RIICRC319E.
Did You Know?
Mitre saws have a fascinating historical connection to the craftsmanship and precision of woodworking that dates back several centuries! The use of angled cuts, or mitres, in woodworking has been practiced for centuries to create seamless joints and beautifully finished pieces. Early craftsmen relied on manual tools such as saws and chisels to achieve accurate angles, but it was a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. The development of the first mechanical mitre saw is credited to the ancient Egyptians, who used a sand-based abrasive compound and a wooden sled to make precise cuts. This early example laid the foundation for the concept of angle cuts in woodworking.
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/>